Three people were brought safely to harbour after their 19ft boat suffered engine failure off Blackrock, Salthill, on Wednesday afternoon.
Galway RNLI's volunteer lifeboat crew launched shortly before 4pm at the request of the Coast Guard after a call for assistance from the stricken vessel, which was left without any means of propulsion near the Blackrock Diving Tower.
The lifeboat was crewed by helm Brian Niland and volunteers Kenneth Kitterick, Paddy Hennelly and Darragh Heskin.
On arrival, the crew found all three people aboard safe and well. Following an inspection of the casualty vessel, they decided that towing it to harbour was the safest option due to its condition, the lack of a suitable alternative vessel and its position in the main shipping channel leading to Galway Port.
The lifeboat crew completed the tow and brought the disabled boat to a safe harbour without incident.
Galway RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager Paul Carey, who authorised the launch, praised those aboard for taking the correct precautions.
"The weather conditions were very good this afternoon during this fine spell of weather," he said.
"The people on the casualty boat were wearing lifejackets, were hydrated and had acted appropriately by calling the Coast Guard to seek help."
With warm weather continuing, Carey urged anyone planning to head afloat to prepare properly before setting out.
"I'd like to remind everyone heading out on a boat to always wear a lifejacket, let someone ashore know where you are going and when you plan to be back. Check your vessel is safe to go to sea and bring a means of communication so you can call for help if needed.
"Even on the shortest trips you can get caught out, so it pays to be prepared, including carrying the right boat safety kit."
