Castletownbere RNLI comes to aid of two sailors after yacht takes on water off Sheep's Head
- Pat Nolan
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Monday 20 July 2026
Castletownbere RNLI launched on Monday afternoon (20 July) to assist two sailors after their yacht began taking on water approximately seven miles west-south-west of Sheep's Head.
The 33-foot yacht was on passage when it started taking on water. While the two sailors were able to keep the situation under control, they contacted the Irish Coast Guard's Marine Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Valentia to request immediate assistance.
Castletownbere RNLI's all-weather lifeboat Annette Hutton was tasked at 4.15pm and launched at 4.24pm under the command of Coxswain Marney O'Donoghue. The volunteer crew included mechanic Sean O'Shea and crew members Seamus Harrington, William O'Driscoll and Ryan Murphy.
The yacht was located at approximately 4.47pm, seven miles west-south-west of Sheep's Head. Weather conditions on scene were favourable, with Force 2 north-westerly winds and smooth seas.
Although the yacht was undamaged and both sailors were safe and well, the vessel continued to take on water and had lost all power. Given the circumstances, the decision was made to establish a tow back to Castletownbere.
The lifeboat and the yacht arrived safely in Castletownbere at 6.15pm, where the vessel was berthed at the western end of the pier.
Felix O'Donoghue, Launch Authority at Castletownbere RNLI, said:
"Our volunteer crew responded quickly after being tasked and were able to locate the yacht without difficulty. While the two sailors were safe and well, the vessel had lost power and was continuing to take on water, making a tow the safest option. Thankfully, sea conditions were very favourable, which helped make this a straightforward service. We congratulate Coxswain Marney O'Donoghue and the crew on another professional and effective rescue."
Castletownbere RNLI reminds anyone planning to go afloat to always check the weather and tides before heading to sea, ensure their vessel is well maintained, carry appropriate safety equipment and means of communication, and to seek assistance early if they encounter difficulty.
