Aran Islands RNLI rescue two people after boat suffers engine failure

Thursday 31 July 2025

The volunteer crew were requested to launch this morning (Thursday 31 July) following a report from the Irish Coast Guard that a 30-foot vessel had broken down and was drifting at sea.

Photo Credit: RNLI/Treasa NiBhraonain

The lifeboat launched from Cill Rónain harbour at 10.05am and quickly proceeded 14 nautical miles southwest of Inis Mór.

Once on scene, contact was made with the casualty vessel to ensure the wellness and safety of those on board. Due to strong Force 6 winds and a 3-metre swell, it was decided that the safest course of action was to tow the vessel.

A tow line was established, and the lifeboat began the three-hour tow back to Cill Rónain harbour.

Speaking after the call out, Aran Islands Station Coxswain, Aonghus Ó hIarnáin said: ‘I would like to give a big thank you to our volunteer crew who never hesitate to answer the pager. Thanks to the quick actions of our crew, we were able to reach the vessel promptly and ensure the safety of those on board.

Remember when going out to sea, always carry a means of calling for help and if you do get into difficulty don’t hesitate to call the Coast Guard on VHF Channel 16 or by calling 112.’