In a daring rescue operation, a volunteer lifeboat crew from Ballycotton RNLI in County Cork saved the lives of three fishermen who were stranded on an 11m boat that had suffered difficulties and was disabled two and a half miles off Power Head.
The incident occurred during the early hours of this morning.
The Austin Lidbury, Ballycotton RNLI’s all-weather lifeboat, was launched at 2.15 am after a distress call was received from the stranded vessel. The harsh weather conditions with temperatures at freezing and a bitter north-easterly wind of force 5-6 and two-metre swell made the rescue operation extremely challenging.
The lifeboat crew quickly located the vessel and confirmed that all crew members were safe. They then secured a tow line and began towing the boat to Crosshaven as conditions were deemed too unsafe to return to Ballycotton with the vessel in tow. The journey was long and arduous, with the towed vessel arriving at Crosshaven at approximately 5.15 am. During the journey, the lifeboat was escorted in by a pod of friendly dolphins as they entered the mouth of Cork Harbour.
The crew of the lifeboat were hailed for their bravery and quick action in rescuing the stranded fishermen. Ballycotton RNLI Coxswain Eolan Walsh said, "Thankfully, all three fishermen were wearing lifejackets and had called for help as soon as they encountered difficulties. Conditions were extremely cold and difficult, and I am thankful to all the volunteers who answered the call last night."
The lifeboat crew comprised Coxswain Walsh, station mechanic Adam Hussey, Eolan Breathnach as navigator, Cíaran Walsh, Michael Kenneally, Claire McCarthy, Ronan Lynch, and Adrian Erangey.
The incident serves as a reminder to all to take necessary precautions when venturing out to sea and to dial 999 or 112 or use VHF radio CH 16 and ask for the Coast Guard in case of an emergency.
