Lough Derg RNLI Responds To Cruiser With Gearbox Failure Off Clare Shore

Sunday 3 May 2026

On Sunday, 3 May, Valentia Coast Guard requested the launch of the Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat to assist two people aboard a 32-foot motor cruiser that had suffered gearbox failure. The vessel was anchored at Rossmore on the County Clare shoreline.

Photo Credit: RNLI/Lough Derg

At 1:40pm, the lifeboat Jean Spier launched with RNLI volunteers Steve Smyth, Chris Parker, and Joe O’Donoghue on board. Conditions on the lake were mixed: a northeast wind at Force 2 to 3, fair to good visibility, but punctuated by frequent heavy rain squalls.

The lifeboat reached the casualty vessel at 2:00pm. An RNLI volunteer was transferred across and confirmed that both people on board were safe, unharmed, and wearing lifejackets. A thorough check of the vessel revealed no water ingress or oil leaks from the damaged engine.

Given the cruiser’s isolated position, the deteriorating weather, and the risk of a further emergency if left at anchor, the lifeboat helm made the decision to tow the vessel to safety. The crew established an astern tow and, under instruction, the volunteer aboard the casualty vessel retrieved its anchor.

By 2:25pm, the motor cruiser was safely secured alongside at Kilgarvin Harbour, where arrangements had been made for a marine engineer to carry out repairs. The lifeboat departed the scene at 2:36pm and returned to station at 3:05pm, ready for service once again.

Commenting on the callout, Greg Whelan, Launching Authority at Lough Derg RNLI said: ‘Thankfully both people on board were wearing their lifejackets, and had dropped anchor as soon as they found themselves in difficulty.

As this is the beginning of the boating season, we would remind boat users to ensure your vessel and engine are in good condition before setting out. 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.’