Wicklow RNLI Responds to Dismasted Yacht in Night-Time Operation
- Pat Nolan
- May 3
- 2 min read
Sunday 3 May 2026
Two people were brought safely ashore late on Friday night after their yacht lost its mast off the coast of Wicklow Harbour, prompting a call-out for the volunteer crew of the RNLI.
The alarm was raised shortly before 11.20pm on Friday, 1 May, when reports came in of a dismasted yacht approximately 10 miles east of Wicklow Harbour. Responding swiftly, the all-weather lifeboat RNLB Bridie O’Shea launched within minutes under the command of Coxswain Nicky Keogh.
Despite the challenging circumstances, the lifeboat crew located the stricken vessel around 25 minutes after launch, finding it roughly eight miles offshore. Conditions at the time were relatively calm, with light winds, a slight swell, and good visibility. However, the situation remained serious.
The yacht had lost its mast, leaving it without functioning navigation lights or VHF radio communications—critical safety equipment at sea. This made locating the vessel in darkness significantly more difficult. The skipper had managed to raise the alarm using a mobile phone, while also assisting rescuers by signalling with a flashlight.
Using onboard radar alongside the visual signal, the RNLI crew successfully pinpointed the vessel’s position.
Once on scene, the crew quickly assessed the risks. With no navigation lights and drifting in a busy shipping area, the yacht was vulnerable to passing vessels. With no other boats nearby to assist, the decision was made to establish a tow and bring the casualty vessel back to safety.
Speaking after the callout Wicklow Lifeboat Press Officer Connie O’Gara said 'This was a quick response by the crew and that along with their training helped bring two people safely ashore and we wish them well.
As we approach summer, we would like to remind people planning a trip at sea to ensure they have a suitable means of communication to be able to call for help should the need arise. Let someone know where you are going and when you are due back and if you get into trouble or see anyone in difficulty, dial 112 or 999 and ask for the Coast Guard.'
