Castletownbere RNLI Rescues RIB Following Engine Fire Off West Cork Coast

Saturday 6 June 2026

Castletownbere, Co Cork – Castletownbere RNLI launched this afternoon to assist a rigid inflatable boat (RIB) that suffered an engine fire near Ardnakinna Lighthouse in West Cork.

Castletownbere RNLI

The RNLI lifeboat Annette Hutton was paged at 1:58pm and launched within minutes under the command of Deputy Coxswain Sean Bawn O’Sullivan. The volunteer crew included mechanic Donagh Murphy, Coxswain Joe O’Sullivan, Joe Cronin, Seamus Harrington, Dave O’Donovan and William O’Driscoll.

The lifeboat arrived on scene just 12 minutes later, approximately three-quarters of a mile outside the mouth of Castletownbere Harbour. Conditions were challenging, with a Force 6 to 7 westerly wind and a three-metre swell.

By the time the lifeboat reached the casualty vessel, the skipper had successfully extinguished the engine fire and all six people on board were reported to be calm and unharmed.

The RNLI crew immediately established a tow and began bringing the RIB towards the safety of Berehaven Harbour. Once inside calmer waters, the six casualties were transferred aboard the lifeboat, while the disabled vessel was towed alongside.

The operation concluded safely with all persons returned to Castletownbere. The RIB was berthed and the casualties went ashore without injury.

Paul O’Shea, owner of the vessel, praised the RNLI crew’s rapid response.

“From the time I called the Coast Guard for help, Castletownbere lifeboat came into view within 11 minutes. I am very grateful to the crew for their speedy response and the professional manner in which they provided assistance,” he said.

Lifeboat Launching Authority Brendan O’Neill highlighted the importance of seeking assistance promptly when difficulties arise at sea.

“The skipper made the right call by contacting the Coast Guard immediately, which meant that the lifeboat could launch and rescue the boat before conditions deteriorated,” he said.

The incident serves as a reminder to boat users of the importance of acting quickly in an emergency and contacting the Coast Guard at the earliest opportunity.