#rnli – Lough Derg RNLI Lifeboat launched to assist 7 people, 2 adults and 5 children on board a 40ft cruiser whose anchor had fallen off the bow and was reported to be dragging.
Lough Derg RNLI Lifeboat launched following a request from Valentia Coast Guard to assist 7 people, 2 adults and 5 children, on board a 40ft vessel whose anchor had fallen off the bow and was reported to be dragging. The crew of a J24 yacht sailing past, saw their distress flag and offered assistance, advising the skipper of the cruiser to turn the helm head to wind, to reduce the severe roll from being side on to the weather. The yacht remained on scene until the lifeboat arrived. Winds were south-westerly, 13-15 knots, Force 3 gusting 4, visibility was very good.
At 12.10pm, the lifeboat launched with helm Eleanor Hooker, Ger Egan and Peter Clarke on board. The lifeboat located the cruiser in open water near Parker's Point. All seven people on board were safe and unharmed and wearing their lifejackets. A lifeboat crew member crossed to the casualty vessel and reassured everyone, before recovering the anchor and stowing it securely. He remained on board and helmed the cruiser, with her passengers, back to Garrykennedy Harbour, all the time reassuring everyone and giving advice on their passage planning for the following day. The lifeboat accompanied the cruiser and helped to tie it safely alongside.
Liam Maloney, Lifeboat Operations Manager for Lough Derg RNLI, advises boat users to 'enjoy boating on the lake, but if ever in difficulty, remain with the vessel, dial 999 or 112 and ask for Marine Rescue, or call the Coast Guard on VHF channel 16'. He also advises that before setting out 'in any weather, check all gear is securely tied down or stowed'.
The Lifeboat returned to station and was ready for service again at 1.30pm.
