Wicklow RNLI Assists Two After Boat Suffers Engine Failure Off Wicklow Coast
- Pat Nolan
- 3 hours ago
- 2 min read
Saturday 18 July 2026
Wicklow RNLI volunteers brought two people safely ashore on Friday afternoon after their six-metre vessel suffered engine failure approximately eight miles northeast of Wicklow Harbour.
The all-weather lifeboat RNLB Bridie O'Shea launched shortly after 4.10pm following a Coast Guard pager alert. The lifeboat was under the command of Coxswain Nick Keogh.
The casualty vessel was located around 20 minutes after launch in a position just south of Greystones Harbour. Weather and sea conditions were favourable, with calm seas and good visibility assisting the operation.
Following an assessment, Coxswain Keogh confirmed that the vessel had experienced a complete engine failure and was unable to return to port under its own power. The decision was made to establish a tow to the nearest safe harbour.
The tow was completed without incident, and the casualty vessel was brought safely into Greystones Harbour, where it was secured alongside. The two people on board were landed safely ashore shortly after 5.15pm.
After completing the rescue, the volunteer crew returned to Wicklow Harbour, arriving back on station at 5.45pm.
Speaking after the callout, Launch Authority Adrian O'Connor praised the swift response of the volunteer crew.
"This was a quick response by our volunteer crew following the Coast Guard pager alert. I'd like to remind anyone going on the water in this good weather to have a suitable means of calling for assistance. If you see anyone in trouble on the water, please call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard."
The incident serves as a timely reminder of the importance of carrying reliable means of communication and ensuring vessels are properly maintained before heading to sea, particularly during periods of fine weather when coastal waters become increasingly busy.