Baltimore RNLI Rescue Yacht in Difficulty Off West Cork Coast
- Pat Nolan
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Sunday 26 April 2026
Volunteer crew from RNLI Baltimore launched on Friday evening (25 April) to assist a yacht that had run into difficulty off the coast of West Cork.
The callout came at 6.14pm, following a request from the Irish Coast Guard. A 45-foot yacht with three people onboard was reported to be approximately three miles south of Sherkin Island. The vessel had been en route from Kinsale to Cape Clear Island when it encountered serious difficulties.
The skipper raised the alarm after the yacht’s mainsail ripped. Attempts to continue the journey under engine power also failed when the vessel suffered engine failure, leaving those onboard without a means of propulsion.
The Baltimore all-weather lifeboat arrived on scene at 6.33pm. Coxswain Jerry Smith assessed the situation and, after consulting with the skipper, determined that a tow was required. A towline was successfully established, and by 6.37pm both vessels were making their way toward safety.
The lifeboat brought the yacht to Baltimore Harbour, the nearest suitable port, arriving at 7.46pm. Volunteer crew members assisted in securing the vessel safely to the pier. Once satisfied that the yacht and its crew were secure, the lifeboat departed and returned to station at 7.59pm.
Six volunteers were onboard the lifeboat for the operation: Coxswain Jerry Smith, mechanic Micheal Cottrell, navigator Kieran Collins, and crew members Colin Whooley, Brian McSweeney, and Don O’Donovan.
Conditions at sea during the rescue were challenging, with a fresh easterly force 5–6 wind and a swell of approximately 2.3 metres.
Speaking following the call out, Kate Callanan, Baltimore RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer said: ‘The skipper did the right thing in calling for immediate assistance as soon as he realised that his situation had worsened, and it was good to see that he and all his crew, including the dog, were in lifejackets. Should you get into difficulty at sea, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.’
