Union Hall RNLI Responds to Disabled Yacht Seven Miles Off Glandore
- Pat Nolan
- 9 hours ago
- 2 min read
Wednesday 17 June 2026
UNION HALL, Co Cork - Volunteer lifeboat crew from Union Hall RNLI came to the assistance of two sailors who got into difficulty approximately seven miles south of Glandore Harbour on Tuesday evening, 16 June.
The Irish Coast Guard requested the launch of the station's inshore lifeboat at 8.53pm after receiving reports that a 6.5-metre yacht taking part in a race had suffered damage to the rigging in its foresail, leaving the vessel partially disabled.
The inshore lifeboat, helmed by Tim Forde and crewed by Ríona Casey, Michael Limrick and Cathal Deasy, launched promptly and made its way to the casualty vessel.
Conditions at sea were favourable at the time, with a Force 2-3 south-westerly wind and moderate to slight seas.
Upon arrival, the RNLI crew found both sailors safe and well and wearing lifejackets. Although the yacht was still making headway under its mainsail, the damage to the foresail meant the vessel would be unable to safely enter harbour without assistance.
The lifeboat crew initially escorted the yacht towards the entrance of Glandore Harbour. Once at the harbour mouth, it was determined that the safest option was to establish a tow, allowing the yacht to be manoeuvred safely into the harbour area.
Speaking after the call-out, Union Hall RNLI Helm Tim Forde praised the sailors for seeking assistance when they recognised they were in difficulty.
“We would like to wish both sailors all the best as they continue in their race today. They made the right call last night when they knew they were in difficulty and wouldn’t be able to make safe onward progress,” he said.
Forde also reminded those heading to sea of the importance of preparation.
“We would encourage anyone planning a trip to sea to always go prepared. Always wear a lifejacket, always carry a means of communication and always let someone know where you are going and when you are due back. Should you get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.”
The call-out highlights the vital role played by RNLI volunteers in ensuring the safety of those at sea, even in relatively calm conditions when equipment failures can quickly develop into potentially hazardous situations.
