#RNLI - Lough Derg RNLI’s inshore lifeboat launched on Monday afternoon (21 August) to assist six people after their 30ft cruiser ran aground behind the Corakeen Islands near Dromineer Bay.
The lifeboat launched on request from Valentia Coast Guard with helm Eleanor Hooker, Ger Egan and Owen Cavanagh on board. Winds were south-westerly Force 3 and visibility was good.
Another motorboat had reported the vessel aground and had dropped anchor close by until the lifeboat arrived on scene.
All six passengers, four adults and two children, were found to be safe and unharmed and wearing their lifejackets.
The lifeboat transferred a crewman over to the casualty vessel, where he reassured everyone on board before he conducted checks of the vessel to ensure it was not holed.
A bridle was then set up in preparation for a tow, and the lifeboat took the boat off the rocks and out into safe water.
Following another assessment, it was found that the cruiser had suffered damage to steering and rudder. The lifeboat then took the cruiser and passengers under tow to the public harbour at Dromineer.
Pat Garland, deputy launching authority at Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat station, reminded boat users to “enjoy the lake but make sure you stay on the navigation route, well clear of the shoreline.”