Youghal RNLI came to the aid of two people on Tuesday morning (14 June) after their 18ft pleasure craft got into difficulty east of Youghal Lighthouse.
The volunteer crew were requested to launch their inshore lifeboat by Mine Head Coast Guard at 11.47am following reports of a broken-down 18ft pleasure craft with two people onboard two miles south-east off Capel Island.
The Atlantic 85 lifeboat, helmed by John Griffin Jnr, launched in calm weather conditions, reaching the casualty within 15 minutes. The vessel had broken down due to engine failure.
On arrival, the lifeboat crew observed that the two men onboard were both safe and well. The crew assessed the situation before deciding to put a crew member onboard the boat to establish a tow line. The crew member stayed onboard while the lifeboat towed the vessel back to the nearest safe port at Ferry Point.
Speaking following the callout, John Griffin, Youghal RNLI’s lifeboat operations manager said: “The crew on the vessel did the right thing in raising the alarm when they knew they were in difficulty, and we would like to commend the crew of a nearby fishing which stayed on scene until the lifeboat arrived.
“As we enter the summer months, we would remind anyone planning a trip to sea to respect the water,” he added.
“Always carry a means of communication as problems can occur at any time and being prepared is key. Always wear a lifejacket and let someone on the shore know where you are going and when you are due back. Should you get into the difficulty, dial 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.”
