LIVE: Emergency in Tipperary over lone skipper found in crisis situation following alert

On Thursday, December 18, Valentia Coast Guard requested Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat launch to assist a lone skipper on a 27ft motor cruiser with engine failure at a location south of Dromaan. RNLI volunteers were informed that the skipper had dropped anchor, and that it was holding.

At 11am Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat Jean Spier launched with helm Eleanor Hooker, navigator James Corballis, and crew Joe O’Donoghue on board.

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The wind was south-westerly, Force 4 gusting F5.

Visibility was good, though it became moderate to poor with rain and frequent heavy squalls.

At 11:10am, having established that there was clear water port side and stern of the casualty vessel, the lifeboat came alongside to speak to the skipper, who was safe and unharmed and wearing their lifejacket.

An RNLI volunteer transferred across to the casualty vessel.

Given the remote location, the known hazards at the scene, the helm made the decision to take the vessel under an astern tow to the safety of Dromineer Harbour, where RNLI shore crew and a team of marine engineers were waiting to assist.

The lifeboat reported the plan to Valentia Coast Guard. At 11:24am, after setting up lines and weighing anchor, the lifeboat had the casualty vessel under an astern tow.

As the lifeboat approached Dromineer Harbour, the helm asked for the tow line to be shortened.

To counter the effect of the wind before the vessels entered the harbour, the lifeboat helmed high and close to weather, instructing the casualty vessel to keep its rudder centred and steer astern of the lifeboat.

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At 11:59pm, the casualty vessel was safely tied alongside.

The lifeboat departed the scene and was back at Station at 12:09pm.

Commenting on the callout, Christine O’Malley, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Lough Derg RNLI said: “Thankfully the skipper was wearing their lifejacket, had dropped anchor and called for help as soon as they encountered difficulties. We would remind anyone planning a trip on the lake that if you get into difficulty or see somebody else in trouble on the water, dial 999 or 112 or use VHF radio CH 16 and ask for the Coast Guard.”