Larne RNLI launched their inshore lifeboat, Terry, at the request of Belfast Coastguard at 3:38pm yesterday (Wednesday 5 May) to go to the aid of two sailors whose 30ft yacht had experienced engine difficulty and run aground close to Wymers Pier at East Antrim Boat Club.
The volunteer lifeboat crew launched into slight seas with a stiff breeze and made their way to the casualty vessel to assess what needed to be done.
Upon reaching the casualty vessel, the volunteer crew needed to wait for the tide to rise so that it could be re-floated and then a tow line could be established.
Once the tow was established the yacht was brought alongside a mooring at East Antrim Boat Club where the damage could be assessed, and repairs could be carried out at a later stage.
Upon return to the lifeboat station, Larne RNLI Helm, Barry Kirkpatrick said:
“With lockdown restrictions easing and with the boating season coming, it’s vitally important to do a thorough check of all your equipment and mechanical parts on your boat to ensure that they are working correctly.
“It’s important that anyone going to sea is aware to carry a means of contacting either the shore or the coastguard and I would also remind members of the public that if they see anyone in trouble at sea to contact the coastguard on 999 or 112.”
Barry continued:
“This May we are asking people to take part in our Mayday Mile, to help raise funds for the RNLI. We are entering our busiest time of the year and it is so important that we have the correct equipment to help save lives at sea.
“Our fundraisers have organised our Mayday Mile to take place on Saturday 15 May between 2:00pm and 4:00pm at Larne promenade. Anyone can come and walk, run, cycle or cover the mile however they would like to and help raise funds for the RNLI.”