The volunteer crew of Bangor RNLI in Northern Ireland were tasked by HM Coastguard at 9.56pm on Wednesday evening (22 January) following reports that three people onboard a leisure fishing boat had run aground and were unsure of their exact location.
The casualty vessel was thought to be in the vicinity of Cloghan Jetty on Belfast Lough and after launching at 10.05pm, Bangor’s inshore lifeboat Ruby Robinson made best speed to the area and started a search for the anglers.
The casualties were found a short time later onboard their boat, which was hard aground on North Briggs reef, west of Cloghan Jetty. The three people on board the boat were found to be safe and well.
The lifeboat crew assessed the situation and determined that the casualty vessel was watertight. After discussion with the vessel’s skipper, the lifeboat crew transferred two of the three casualties to Carrickfergus and the care of HM Coastguard.
The skipper of the casualty vessel made the decision to remain with the casualty vessel, awaiting the next tide to refloat.
Bangor lifeboat returned to Bangor Harbour and after refuelling and washing, the boat was back on station ready for next service at 11.59pm.
A short time later at 1.35am, lifeboat volunteers were once again asked to attend the casualty vessel. After refloating on the incoming tide, the skipper tried to make passage to Carrickfergus Harbour but lost all power.
The lifeboat quickly located the casualty vessel and assessed the situation. It was decided that it would be safest to establish a tow line and take the vessel to Carrickfergus, given the location and light conditions.
Once this was completed, the lifeboat handed the casualty over to HM Coastguard and returned to Bangor. Ruby Robinson was washed refuelled and ready for next service at 3.15am.
Bangor lifeboat helm John Bell said: “Always carry a means for calling for help and know how to use it. Before venturing out always check your tide tables and times. It’s always a good idea to let people know where you are going and what your plans are. Learn how to start run and maintain your engine. Always carry tools and spares.”
