Bangor RNLI came to the assistance of four people after their pleasure craft suffered engine failure off Groomsport on Sunday morning. The volunteer crew launched the Atlantic 85 lifeboat Ruby Robinson at 6.50 am on 5 July following a request from Belfast Coastguard.
Conditions were calm, with a flat sea, light winds and good visibility as the lifeboat made its way to the casualty vessel. The boat was found drifting near Briggs Buoy, close to the Belfast Lough shipping lane.
RNLI volunteers confirmed all four people on board were safe and wearing lifejackets. Although feeling cold, they did not require medical attention. The vessel's main engine had failed, while its auxiliary engine also could not be started. After assessing the situation, helm Peter Semple decided the safest option was to tow the powerless craft away from the shipping lane and into Bangor Marina.
Speaking after the rescue, Semple praised the skipper for seeking help promptly. "The boat owner did exactly the correct thing by calling for help when in difficulty, and we were happy to assist when they couldn't make any safe onward progress," he said.
He also urged boat owners to carry out regular maintenance before going afloat. "Carry spare fuel if possible and ensure that you have a suitable means for calling for assistance, such as a Marine VHF radio or mobile phone. If you get into trouble or see someone in difficulty on the water, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard."
