Lough Derg RNLI Volunteers Assist Five People Following Cruiser Engine Failure

Tuesday 16 June 2026

DROMINEER, Co Tipperary - Lough Derg RNLI volunteers launched this afternoon (Tuesday 15 June), to assist five people aboard a 32ft motor cruiser that suffered engine failure on Lough Derg.

Photo Credit: RNLI/Lough Derg

Earlier today, Valentia Coast Guard requested the launch of the Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat after the vessel experienced engine failure and was at anchor north of Illaunmore.

At 1:05pm, the RNLI lifeboat Jean Spier launched with volunteer helm Chris Parker and crew members James Corballis and Owen Cavanagh on board. Weather conditions at the time were favourable, with a south-westerly wind of Force 2 to 3 and good visibility.

The lifeboat arrived on scene at 1:14pm and found all five people aboard the casualty vessel safe and unharmed. All occupants were wearing lifejackets.

Given the vessel’s location close to a main navigation route, and the possibility of a further emergency if it remained at anchor, the helm decided that the safest course of action was to tow the cruiser to the nearest safe harbour at Dromineer. The Coast Guard was informed of the decision.

An RNLI volunteer crew member transferred to the casualty vessel to brief those on board and prepare the cruiser for an astern tow. Once preparations were complete, the vessel’s anchor was recovered under the direction of the lifeboat crew.

At 2:10pm, the casualty vessel was safely secured alongside at Dromineer Harbour. The lifeboat departed the scene five minutes later and returned to station, where it was washed down, refuelled and made ready for service again by 2:38pm.

Commenting on the callout, Christine O’Malley, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Lough Derg RNLI, said:

“We would remind boat users to ensure you check your engine and fuel before embarking on your journey. 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.”