Galway RNLI Rescues Three After Boat Suffers Engine Failure Off Salthill
- Pat Nolan
- 23 hours ago
- 2 min read
Wednesday 15 July 2026
Galway RNLI came to the assistance of three people this afternoon after their 19ft boat suffered engine failure near Blackrock, leaving them without power in the main shipping channel to Galway Port.
The volunteer lifeboat crew was requested to launch by the Irish Coast Guard following a call for assistance from the occupants of the disabled vessel.
Galway RNLI's lifeboat launched shortly before 4pm with helm Brian Niland and crew members Kenneth Kitterick, Paddy Hennelly and Darragh Heskin on board. The crew arrived quickly at the scene near the Blackrock Diving Tower in Salthill.
On arrival, the three people aboard the casualty vessel were found to be safe and well but had no means of propulsion. Following an inspection, the lifeboat crew determined that towing the vessel was the safest option. With no more suitable vessel available and considering the boat's condition and its location within the main shipping channel to Galway Port, the crew established a tow and brought the vessel safely to harbour.
Paul Carey, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Galway RNLI, who authorised the launch, praised the actions of those on board the casualty vessel.
"The weather conditions were very good this afternoon during this fine spell of weather. The people on the casualty boat were wearing lifejackets, were hydrated and had acted appropriately by calling the Coast Guard to seek help."
With warm weather expected to continue over the coming days, Mr Carey reminded those planning to head out on the water to prepare carefully before setting off.
"I'd like to remind everyone heading out on a boat to always wear a lifejacket, let someone ashore know where you are going and when you plan to be back. Check your vessel is safe to go to sea and bring a means of communication so you can call for help if needed. Even on the shortest trips you can get caught out, so it pays to be prepared, including carrying the right boat safety kit."
He added that anyone who gets into difficulty on the water, or spots someone else in distress, should call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.
