Tramore RNLI rescued two people and a dog after their 18ft boat broke down and began to drift towards Tramore beach earlier this week.
The volunteer crew launched their inshore lifeboat at 4.50pm on Monday afternoon (21 September) following a request from the Irish Coast Guard’s Marine Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC).
At the time, sea fog had reduced visibility across the bay, while a south westerly Force 3 wind was gusting to Force 5.
Although the boat’s anchor was deployed, it could not safely hold the vessel clear of Tramore beach. Without engine power, the boat remained at risk of dragging anchor and washing ashore, potentially endangering other water users.
The lifeboat, helmed by Fergal McGrath and with crew members Will Palmer and Nóirín Phelan onboard, launched immediately.
Once on scene, the lifeboat crew found the two onboard to be safe, well and wearing lifejackets.
However, following a risk assessment, and with the vessel unable to make any safe onward progress and with it presenting a hazard to other users, it was decided that the safest course of action was to tow the boat safely to Tramore Pier.
Speaking following the call-out, Tramore RNLI helm Fergal McGrath said: “We would like to commend the two onboard for wearing lifejackets and for calling for help when they needed it.
“We would encourage anyone heading out on the water to do the same and to carry a reliable means of calling for assistance. If you get into difficulty, call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.”
