By Dan Walsh
In a joint sea operation crew members from Rosslare Harbour and Kilmore Quay RNLI came to the aid of a lone sailor early on Tuesday morning after an 8.5 -metre yacht developed engine failure and got into difficulty one mile south-east of Carnsore Point.
Responding to a request from the Irish Coast Guard the all-weather lifeboat from Rosslare Harbour was launched under Coxswain Eamonn O’Rourke and with six crew members onboard at 7.20am.
Arriving on scene, the crew assessed the situation and with the vessel found to be without power and drifting, it was decided to establish a tow to bring the sailor to safety.
The yacht was then towed towards the nearest safe port at Kilmore Quay where the Kilmore Quay lifeboat crew took charge and towed the yacht to safety at 9.55am.
Speaking to WexfordLocal.com following the call out, Jamie Ryan, Rosslare Harbour RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager said; “We would like to commend the sailor for raising the alarm when they knew they were in difficulty, that is always the right thing to do and we wish them well. We also want to thank our colleagues from Kilmore Quay who completed the call out and brought the sailor safely to shore. This was a good example of an effective joint operation with our flanking lifeboat station.
“As we approach the summer months, we encourage anyone planning a trip or activity at sea to always go prepared. Check weather and tides before venturing out, carry the right equipment for a safe journey including a means of communication. Always wear a lifejacket or suitable flotation device for your activity. Should you get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.”
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