Wicklow RNLI brings two people to safety after yacht suffers mechanical problem

The all-weather lifeboat RNLB Bridie O’Shea slipped its moorings at 12.15pm to reports of a yacht with two people onboard which had developed mechanical issues leading to engine failure.

The volunteer lifeboat crew under the command of Coxswain Alan Goucher located the vessel approximately five minutes after launching. Conditions on scene included a westerly Force 3-4 wind, with slight seas and good visibility.

Once on scene, the crew assessed the situation. The yacht was able to make way under sail, however, its engine had suffered mechanical failure. Given how busy the harbour was with people doing activities such as swimming and kayaking, the decision was made that the safest option would be to tow the casualty into the harbour.

The vessel was secured alongside a short time later and both casualties were assessed as being ok with no further attention required.

Speaking after the call out, Connie O'Gara, Wicklow RNLI Deputy Lifeboat Press Officer said: 'This was a quick response by the crew and that along with their training helped bring the two people safely ashore. We wish them well.

'We would also like to commend the decision of the skipper to seek assistance early. While they could have attempted to manoeuvre into the harbour under sail, given how busy the harbour was, the safest option was to seek assistance to ensure safety for all.

'As we are in the middle of summer, we would like to remind people planning a trip at sea to ensure they have a suitable means of communication to be able to call for help should the need arise. Let someone know where you are going and when you are due back and if you get into trouble or see anyone in difficulty, dial 112 or 999 and ask for the Coast Guard.'

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RNLI Media Contact

For more information, contact Connie O'Gara, Wicklow RNLI Deputy Lifeboat Press Officer at Connie_O'[email protected]

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The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.

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