Baltimore RNLI launched on Friday evening (25 April) to assist a yacht in difficulty off the West Cork coast. The alarm was raised shortly after 6.00 pm when the Irish Coast Guard requested help for a 45ft yacht with three people onboard, located three miles south of Sherkin Island.
The vessel was en route from Kinsale to Cape Clear Island when it suffered a torn mainsail. The crew attempted to continue under engine but experienced complete engine failure.
The all-weather lifeboat launched at 6.14 pm and reached the casualty vessel at 6.33 pm. Coxswain Jerry Smith assessed the situation and, after consulting with the skipper, decided a tow was required. A towline was established, and both vessels got underway at 6.37 pm, making for Baltimore Harbour, the nearest safe port.
The lifeboat and yacht arrived safely at 7.46 pm, where the volunteer crew assisted in securing the vessel alongside. The lifeboat returned to the station at 7.59 pm.
Safe Return: Baltimore lifeboat heads back to station. Photo: RNLI/Kate Callanan
Six volunteer crew were onboard: Coxswain Jerry Smith, mechanic Micheal Cottrell, navigator Kieran Collins and crew members Colin Whooley, Brian McSweeney and Don O’Donovan. Sea conditions during the call were described as fresh, with an easterly Force 5–6 wind and a 2.3m swell.
Speaking after the call-out, Baltimore RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer Kate Callanan said: “The skipper did the right thing in calling for immediate assistance as soon as he realised that his situation had worsened. “It was good to see that he and all his crew, including the dog, were in lifejackets. Should you get into difficulty at sea, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.”
