Valentia RNLI assist a yacht with two people onboard

At 4.46pm Valentia Coast Guard requested Valentia RNLI’s volunteer crew to launch the all-weather lifeboat to assess the situation of an 11 metre yacht with machinery failure. The yacht with two people onboard was 3 miles southwest of Dingle Harbour. Weather conditions at the time were described as 'good visibility' with a one-metre swell and a gentle breeze, force three south-westerly wind.

At the location the crew brought the lifeboat alongside the vessel to assess the situation and ensure all occupants onboard were safe. The Valentia Coxswain made the decision that undertaking a tow was necessary and the safest way to assist the casualties. The towed vessel was returned to the nearest and safe and suitable port Dingle Marine.

Speaking following the callout, Colum O’Connell Valentia RNLI Lifeboat Operational Manager said: 'With the summer holidays in full swing, we would remind everyone going to sea to always carry a means of communication and in the case of an emergency dial 112/999 and ask for the Coast Guard, wear a life jacket and to always respect the water.'

Ends

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The RNLI charity 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 142,700 lives.

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