Two people and dog get into difficulty after boat breaks down off Waterford coast
The incident occurred in Tramore Bay on Monday afternoon
Two people and a dog got into difficulty after their fishing boat broke down off the Waterford coast yesterday.
An RNLI spokesperson said: “Tramore RNLI rescued two people and a dog this afternoon when their 18-foot fishing boat broke down in Tramore Bay.
“The volunteer crew launched their inshore lifeboat at 4:50pm 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.”
They highlighted the difficulties faced by the boat following its engine failure.
“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 spokesperson then outlined the reasons behind the decision to tow the boat to Tramore Pier.
“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 and the dog 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, a decision was made 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 commended the two people onboard for wearing lifejackets and for calling for help when they needed it.
He concluded by urging anyone who gets into difficulty in the water to call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.