Bangor RNLI’s volunteer crew were requested to assist the crew of a RIB with suspected engine failure just off Bangor Bay in Northern Ireland at 3.15pm on Thursday afternoon (25 September).
The inshore lifeboat Ruby Robinson made best speed to the location and found two people onboard who were wearing lifejackets and safe.
It emerged they had been enjoying a leisure trip when they encountered some engine trouble.
Bangor RNLI volunteer John Bell was transferred to the casualty vessel to assess the situation. It was established that the safest option would be to tow the vessel, which couldn’t make any safe onward progress, to the nearest safe harbour at Bangor Marina.
Speaking following the rescue, Bangor RNLI helm Russell McGovern said: “We were glad to assist and we wish the sailors well. The boat owner did exactly the right thing by asking for assistance when they knew they were in difficulty.
“We would encourage people to go prepared. Carry engine spares, tools and additional fuel when going to sea. Always carry means of communication and know how to use it. If you get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.”
