Ballycotton RNLI rescues three sailors after yacht encounters difficulty in East Cork

Ballycotton RNLI rescued three people aboard a yacht in difficulty off the coast of East Cork yesterday evening.

The 30ft-yacht, located approximately 2.5km South of Roches Point, raised the alarm after crew members encountered steering complications.

Following a request for assistance from the Valentia Coast Guard at 9.50pm, Ballycotton RNLI lifeboat operations manager, Andy Browne, authorised the launch of the station’s all-weather lifeboat, The Austin Lidbury, was underway from Ballycotton pier within 10 minutes.

Coxswain Eolan Walsh was joined on the call-out by mechanic Alan Cott, navigator Sile Scanlon, and crew members Eolan Breathnach, Adrian Erangey, Stephen Sloane, and Claire Murphy.

Conditions on departure saw Force4-5 north-westerly winds with moderate visibility.

The lifeboat crew arrived on scene at 10.37pm and made contact with the yacht’s crew, who were all safe and wearing lifejackets.

Considering that the yacht could no longer make onward progress alone, and given its proximity to the coastline posing a risk for drifting nearer to shore, a decision was made to establish a tow line.

The vessel and its crew were brought safely to Crosshaven, where Crosshaven Coast Guard personnel and the pier manager were on standby to assist in bringing the yacht alongside.

The Ballycotton lifeboat returned to its station at 1.30am, where it was refuelled and back on service by 1.45am.

Mr Browne said this was “a good example of the importance of contacting the Coast Guard at the first sign of difficulty”.

“The yacht’s crew acted appropriately by raising the alarm, and thankfully all three people were safe and wearing lifejackets when our lifeboat arrived,” said Mr Browne.

“We would remind all those going to sea to ensure that their vessel is properly maintained and that safety equipment is checked before departure.

“It is also important to have a reliable means of communication on board and to know how to raise the alarm if something goes wrong.

“Mechanical or steering problems can quickly become serious at sea, particularly in challenging weather conditions,” he added.

“If you find yourself in difficulty, don’t delay in seeking assistance. Call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.”