Dunmore East RNLI launched on Saturday afternoon (5 July) to assist a 37-foot motor cruiser that had lost engine power near Duncannon in Co Wexford.
Pagers sounded at 4.41pm following a request from the Irish Coast Guard and the relief vessel, the Shannon class all-weather lifeboat Joanna and Henry Williams was launched with six volunteer crew onboard.
It soon emerged that the casualty vessel, a 37-foot steel motor cruiser with two people onboard, had broken down in the channel off Duncannon and was unable to move. Weather conditions were fair, with good visibility and calm seas.
With the boat drifting in the channel and unable to steer, it was considered a hazard to other vessels.
Considering the two people on board and lack of engine power, the lifeboat crew decided that towing the boat to safety was the best option.
A towline was set up, and the boat was brought back to Dunmore East Harbour where was secured safely alongside the pontoon. Both people on board were safe and well. The lifeboat then returned to station and was made ready for service.
Karen Harris, launch authority with Dunmore East RNLI said: “[Saturday’s] shout was a good reminder of the importance of being able to stay in touch by VHF radio or phone when you go out on the water. You never know when something can go wrong and you may need to call for help.
“If you get into difficulty or see someone in difficulty in the water, please dial 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.”
