RNLI/Eleanor Hooker
The RNLI rescues six people on a 37ft cruiser after it ran a aground north of Hare Island in Clare.
Yesterday afternoon Valentia Coast Guard requested Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat to assist the people.
The crew involved Keith Brennan, Eleanor Hooker, Steve Smyth and Doireann Kennedy on board.
The cruiser was inside the navigation mark with its bow up on the rocky shoal.
Standing off, the lifeboat observed that the casualty boat was rocking from side to side.
Using charts and electronic navigation, and with an RNLI crew member taking sounds from the bow, the lifeboat plotted a safe approach to the stern of casualty vessel.
Once alongside and having established that everyone on board was safe and unharmed and wearing their lifejackets, an RNLI crew member checked beneath the floorboards and in the engine housing to ensure there was no water coming in.
Given the conditions, location and circumstances, the helm made the decision to set up a tow and to take the casualty astern off the rocks.
With an RNLI volunteer remaining on board, and the lifeboat in company, the cruiser made way under its own power to Garrykennedy Harbour.
Aoife Kennedy, Deputy Launching Authority at Lough Derg RNLI, advises boat users to ‘study your charts when planning your passage, anticipate each navigation mark along your route and keep a constant lookout’.
