Marine Times

Fethard RNLI assists lone fisherman after 18ft boat breaks down off Hook Head

Volunteer lifeboat crew at Fethard RNLI were requested to launch their lifeboat by the Irish Coast Guard yesterday morning (Thursday 1 July) at 11.20am, to assess the situation where a fisherman reported difficulties with his boat’s outboard engine.

Fethard RNLI’s inshore lifeboat was launched and arrived on scene at Loughlin’s Hill, east of the Hook Peninsula, where the helm and crew began to assess the situation prior to undertaking a tow.

The weather was fine, with good visibility and a Force 2-3 south westerly wind. The fisherman’s anchor on his 18ft open punt was ineffective and he was drifting towards the rocks. The decision was made to undertake a tow as it was necessary and the safest way to assist the casualty. The vessel was returned to the safety of the nearest port at Fethard Harbour.

Commenting on the call out Pat Wallace, Fethard RNLI Deputy Launching Authority said: ‘The fisherman did the absolute right thing by raising the alarm before things got out of hand. This call out highlights the importance of carrying a means of calling for help and having it at hand as a means to contact someone for help.’

Yesterday’s launch also marked the first call out for one of Fethard RNLI’s new crew members, Nadia Blanchfield. Nadia, who has undergone 18 months of training at sea, when Covid-19 regulations allowed, was delighted to be part of yesterday’s rescue.