Dunmore East RNLI Called to Aid Disabled Vessel South-East of Hook Head

Monday 1 June 2026

DUNMORE EAST, Co Waterford - The volunteer crew of Dunmore East RNLI came to the aid of two people aboard a disabled motor cruiser last Sunday evening, 25 May, after the vessel suffered engine difficulties off the Waterford coast.

Dunmore East lifeboat with cruiser on tow. Photo Credit: RNLI/Dunmore East

The crew launched their all-weather lifeboat, William and Agnes Wray, following reports that an 8-metre motor cruiser had experienced engine failure approximately three nautical miles south-east of Hook Head.

The alarm was raised at 5:41pm when the volunteer crew's pagers sounded. The vessel, carrying two people onboard, had dropped anchor while awaiting assistance.

Dunmore East RNLI reached the casualty vessel at 6:13pm and carried out an assessment of the situation. As the motor cruiser was unable to continue its journey safely under its own power, and in the interests of those onboard, the decision was made to establish a tow.

The volunteer crew subsequently towed the vessel safely back to Dunmore East Harbour.

Following the successful operation, the lifeboat returned to station at 7:35pm, where crew members refuelled and prepared the vessel for future service.

Speaking after the call-out, Deirdre Lane, Dunmore East RNLI Volunteer Launch Authority, praised the actions of the vessel's skipper.

"The skipper did the right thing by seeking assistance and anchoring the vessel once the engine problem became apparent," she said.

"Seeking help early and taking sensible precautions can prevent a situation from becoming more serious. We were pleased to assist and bring the vessel and its occupants safely back to shore."

The RNLI is reminding all boat users to ensure their vessels are properly maintained before heading to sea and to carry suitable means of communication. Before setting out, skippers should check their engine, fuel supply, battery systems and safety equipment.

Anyone who gets into difficulty on the water, or spots someone else in trouble, should call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.