Crosshaven RNLI Assists Yacht Drifting Towards Fair Rock After Propeller Failure

Sunday 12 July 2026

Crosshaven RNLI launched on Sunday morning after a yacht with two people on board lost propulsion and began drifting towards Fair Rock in strong tidal conditions.

Crosshaven RNLI volunteers transfer aboard a disabled 7.5-metre yacht after it lost propulsion and began drifting towards Fair Rock in strong easterly winds and a flooding tide. Following an onboard assessment, the yacht and its two occupants were safely towed to East Ferry Marina. Photo: Crosshaven RNLI.

The volunteer lifeboat crew was requested to launch by the Irish Coast Guard at 11:03am following a 999 call from a 7.5-metre yacht that had become disabled after fouling its propeller.

Helmed by David Venner, with crew members Kline Pennefather, Darren O'Keeffe and Alan Venner, the lifeboat made its way to the casualty vessel, which was drifting in a strong easterly wind and a flooding tide.

On arrival, the RNLI crew found two people aboard the yacht. One of the occupants was wearing an unfastened lifejacket. Two lifeboat crew members boarded the vessel to carry out an assessment and determined that the safest course of action was to establish a tow.

The yacht and its occupants were then towed safely to East Ferry Marina, where the vessel was securely berthed without further incident.

Speaking after the callout, helm David Venner said:

"All mariners should make sure their vessel is seaworthy and in good order before setting to sea and make sure they have the correct safety equipment on board."

Following the rescue, the lifeboat returned to Crosshaven RNLI station, where it was washed down, refuelled and declared ready for service again at 1:15pm.

The volunteer shore crew supporting the launch and recovery were James Fegan, Darryl Hughes, Michael McCann, Conor Barry and Roy Sexton.