#rnli – Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat was requested to launch by Valentia Coast Guard tonight to assist two persons on board a 35ft cruiser that had suffered steering failure in deteriorating weather conditions.
The cruiser was en route from Dromineer to Mountshannon when it developed steering problems. The skipper attempted to return to Dromineer but on entering Dromineer Bay the steering failed completely and he requested assistance. The weather was deteriorating with a SW wind F3-4 with frequent sqalls and rain showers. The lifeboat, with Helm Eleanor Hooker, Tom Dunne and Ben Ronayne on board, was launched at 17.45hrs. Once alongside, a crew member was transferred onto the casualty vessel to set up a tow. Both persons aboard the vessel were safe and unharmed and wearing lifejackets. The boat was towed to the safety of Dromineer Harbour, where RNLI shore crew helped to tie the vessel securely for the night.