Lough Derg RNLI Rescues Two After Cruiser Runs Aground Near Goat Road

Friday 19 June 2026

Lough Derg RNLI launched this afternoon to assist two people after their 36ft motor cruiser ran aground south of the Goat Road on Lough Derg.

Photo Credit: RNLI/Lough Derg

Valentia Coast Guard requested the launch of the charity’s inshore lifeboat at 3:33pm. Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat Jean Spier launched with volunteer helm Chris Parker and crew members Owen Cavanagh and Deirdre Gleeson on board.

Weather conditions at the time were favourable, with a westerly Force 2 wind and good visibility.

The lifeboat arrived on scene at 3:55pm and found the casualty vessel aground on the south side of the Goat Road, a raised rocky shoal used by migrating birds.

After assessing lake charts for the area, the lifeboat navigator confirmed there was sufficient depth to approach the casualty vessel on its port side. Using onboard navigation equipment and taking soundings, the RNLI crew brought the lifeboat safely alongside at 4pm.

An RNLI volunteer transferred to the grounded vessel and found both people on board safe and unharmed. The casualties were also wearing lifejackets.

As the vessel remained firmly aground, the decision was made to remove the two occupants and transport them to safety at Dromineer Harbour, where arrangements would be made to return them to their vehicle. Before leaving the scene, the RNLI volunteer deployed the vessel’s anchor as an additional precaution.

The lifeboat informed Valentia Coast Guard of the plan before departing the scene.

The casualty vessel was left secured, and the lifeboat departed at 4:12pm with the two casualties on board. The lifeboat returned to station at 4:27pm and was subsequently washed down and refuelled, with the crew standing down at 5pm.

Commenting on the callout, Mary Hurley, Launching Authority at Lough Derg RNLI, said:

“The people on board were correct in calling for help as soon as they found themselves in difficulty. If you get into difficulty or see somebody else in trouble on the water, dial 999 or 112 or use VHF radio Channel 16 and ask for the Coast Guard.”