Ballycotton RNLI rescues three after yacht loses steering off Roches Point
- Pat Nolan
- 9 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Friday 21 August 2026
Ballycotton RNLI rescued three people from a 30ft yacht after it encountered steering difficulties off Roches Point on Thursday night (20 August).
The Ballycotton all-weather lifeboat, the Austin Lidbury, was requested to launch by Valentia Coast Guard at 9.50pm after the yacht’s crew raised the alarm when they found themselves unable to steer the vessel approximately 1.5 miles south of Roches Point.
Ballycotton RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager Andy Browne immediately authorised the launch, and the lifeboat was underway from Ballycotton pier within ten minutes.
Coxswain Eolan Walsh was joined by mechanic Alan Cott, navigator Sile Scanlon and crew members Eolan Breathnach, Adrian Erangey, Stephen Sloane and Claire McCarthy.
Conditions on departure included north-westerly Force 4–5 winds and moderate visibility.
The lifeboat reached the yacht at 10.37pm and established contact with the three people on board, all of whom were safe and wearing lifejackets.
Following an assessment of the situation, the lifeboat crew determined that the yacht was unable to make safe onward progress. With the vessel close to the coastline and at risk of drifting nearer to shore, the decision was made to establish a tow and bring the sailors safely to Crosshaven.
Crosshaven Coast Guard personnel and the pier manager were on standby at the pontoon to assist with bringing the yacht safely alongside.
The Ballycotton lifeboat returned to station at 1.30am, where it was refuelled and back on service by 1.45am.
Speaking following the call out, Andy Browne, Ballycotton RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager, said the incident highlighted the importance of seeking assistance early.
“This was a good example of the importance of contacting the Coast Guard at the first sign of difficulty,” he said. “The yacht’s crew acted appropriately by raising the alarm, and thankfully all three people were safe and wearing lifejackets when our lifeboat arrived.
“We would remind all those going to sea to ensure that their vessel is properly maintained and that safety equipment is checked before departure. It is also important to have a reliable means of communication on board and to know how to raise the alarm if something goes wrong.
“Mechanical or steering problems can quickly become serious at sea, particularly in challenging weather conditions. If you find yourself in difficulty, don’t delay in seeking assistance. Call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.”
