Larne RNLI’s inshore lifeboat Terry was launched yesterday (Monday 7 June) at the request of Belfast Coastguard to assist two people in a 17ft fishing boat with suspected engine issues.
Launching the lifeboat into a strong sea breeze, the volunteer crew made their way towards the casualty vessel which had dropped their anchor at Browns Bay, near Islandmagee on Northern Ireland’s East Antrim coast, as the people onboard were concerned that they could drift into a shipping channel.
Upon reaching the casualty vessel, a volunteer crew member was put on board to ensure that the two people were safe and well and a tow was set up to bring the boat into the shelter of Ballylumford Harbour.
Once their vessel was secured, the casualties were handed over to the care of the Portmuck Coastguard team.
Philip Ford-Hutchinson, Larne RNLI deputy launching authority, said: “The sea conditions today were very deceptive. It was a lovely sunny day, but the wind had really picked up.
“Thankfully the casualties were well prepared and able to put down an anchor in time to stop them from being at the mercy of the wind and tide. Both of the people onboard were wearing lifejackets and knew to call the coastguard on 999 (or 112) when they were in trouble.”