Lough Swilly RNLI’s volunteer crew responded to two separate incidents on Wednesday evening (12 August) after being requested to launch by Malin Head Coast Guard to reports of red flares, and then to a 28ft vessel with two people onboard.
The Atlantic 85 lifeboat Davdot launched at 7.39pm following reports of two red flares sighted in the Port Ronan area, south-west of Malin Head. Greencastle Coast Guard’s D class and Delta teams were also tasked to assist.
After carrying out a thorough shoreline search southward from Port Ronan, the lifeboat crew found no signs of anyone in difficulty.
As the crew prepared to update Malin Head Coast Guard on the search, they were immediately requested at 8.17pm to assist a vessel with two people onboard south-west of Dunaff Head.
Arriving on scene at 8.35pm, the crew located the 28ft vessel, which had become disabled after a line fouled its propeller.
Although the line was successfully removed, the vessel remained stuck in gear with its engine shut down and no means of disengaging the gearbox to restart it.
Given the vessel’s location, the fading daylight and the ebbing tide, the lifeboat crew assessed that the safest course of action was to establish a tow to the nearest suitable harbour. With the agreement of the two people onboard, a tow commenced at 9.05pm.
En route to Rathmullan, the crew received confirmation that the earlier flare sightings had been fully investigated by Greencastle Coast Guard, who were stood down at 9.20pm after nothing untoward was found.
The casualty vessel was safely brought to Rathmullan Pontoon, where it was secured at 11.40pm. Once the occupants were safely ashore, the lifeboat crew were able to return to station and the lifeboat was refuelled and ready for service again at half past midnight.
Barry Johnston, Lough Swilly RNLI helm said: “This was a busy evening for our volunteer crew, highlighting how quickly one call-out can lead to another. Thankfully, the two people onboard were able to raise the alarm and get assistance when they encountered difficulties.
“This incident highlights the importance of being prepared before going to sea. Mechanical problems can happen unexpectedly, so it’s vital to carry a reliable means of communication and know how to use it, and let someone ashore know your plans. If you see someone in difficulty at sea, or if you get into trouble yourself, call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.”
