Wicklow RNLI volunteers rescued two people after their yacht was dismasted late on Friday night, 1 May.
The all-weather lifeboat RNLB Bridie O’Shea launched at 11.20 pm following reports of a yacht in difficulty 10 miles east of Wicklow Harbour. The crew, led by Coxswain Nicky Keogh, located the vessel within 25 minutes, eight miles offshore. Conditions were calm with a slight swell and good visibility.
The yacht had lost its mast and had no working navigation lights or VHF radio. The skipper raised the alarm by mobile phone. The lifeboat used onboard radar to locate the vessel, with additional assistance from a flashlight signal from the yacht.
After assessing the situation, the crew deemed the vessel at risk due to its lack of lights in a busy shipping area. A decision was made to tow the yacht to Wicklow Harbour, the nearest safe port. The vessel was secured alongside at 1.20 am. Both people on board were reported safe and required no further assistance.
Speaking after the call-out, Wicklow RNLI Press Officer Connie O’Gara said: “This was a quick response by the crew and that, along with their training, helped bring two people safely ashore, and we wish them well.” She added, “As we approach summer, we remind people to carry suitable means of communication and to let someone know their plans before going to sea.”
O’Gara advised anyone in difficulty to dial 112 or 999 and ask for the Coast Guard.
