Larne RNLI brings two people to safety after fishing boat breaks down
Inshore Lifeboat Terry. (Image: Jason Bain, RNLI Lifeboat Press Officer, Larne)
Two people have been brought safely ashore after their fishing boat suffered a mechanical failure in Larne Harbour on Sunday morning.
RNLI volunteers launch to help stricken boat
Larne RNLI’s volunteer crew launched the inshore lifeboat Terry shortly before midday after HM Coastguard received a report from one of the crew members that their vessel had broken down.
The lifeboat was requested to launch at 11.59am, with Helm Scott Leitch and crew members Shea McFerran and Andy Purves making their way towards the fishing boat’s last reported position.
Conditions at the time were good, with a gentle breeze and slight seas.
The two people were located a short distance away in Larne Harbour. Once alongside, the RNLI crew established that both were safe and that the boat had suffered a mechanical failure.
Following an assessment by the Helm, it was decided that the safest course of action was to establish a tow and bring the vessel back to Larne Boat Club.
A tow line was secured and the fishing boat, along with its two crew members, was safely returned to the boat club.
‘They did the right thing’
Speaking following the call-out, Larne RNLI Helm Scott Leitch praised the crew for having the means to raise the alarm when they got into difficulty.
He said:
“We would like to wish the crew well. The casualties had the means to contact the Coastguard and did the right thing when they realised that they had broken down.
“We would encourage anyone planning a trip to sea to check their vessels and ensure engines are well maintained. When going out, always carry adequate tools and spares and ensure you have enough fuel for your journey.
“If you do get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.”
The incident ended safely with both people brought back to Larne Boat Club, while the RNLI’s advice serves as a reminder for anyone heading to sea to check their vessel beforehand and make sure they have a reliable way of raising the alarm if something goes wrong.
