RNLI Rescues Three From Grounded Yacht near Groomsport
Bangor RNLI was involved in the rescue of three people from a 28ft Yacht aground on Cockle Island, Groomsport yesterday evening (Thursday 10 August).
The volunteer crew was requested to launch their inshore lifeboat at 6.11 pm following a request from Belfast Coastguard to assist with the recovery of 28ft Yacht.
It had drifted and run aground onto Cockle Island, Groomsport, following a mechanical failure.
The lifeboat helmed by Gareth Whan and crew members Kelly Clark, Joanne Heasley, and Ewan Rathbone-Scott onboard, immediately made their way to the scene.
It was two nautical miles from the station to Cockle Island. There was a Force 3-4 wind at the time and moderate seas with dry and bright weather.
Arriving on the scene, the crew observed three people onboard a yacht that had drifted onto Cockle Island following a mechanical failure.
It was observed that all on board were wearing lifejackets. The lifeboat crew assessed the situation and decided towing the yacht off the rocks was the safest option.
The lifeboat positioned itself to the stern of the casualty vessel and attached a towline.
Once the yacht had been removed safely from the rocks it was then towed to the closest port and its’ mooring in Groomsport harbour.
Once this was complete, the lifeboat made its way back to Bangor lifeboat station, and the boat was made ready for service at 7.15 pm.
Speaking following the call out, Bangor RNLI Helm Gareth Whan said: “Boaters should ensure their engine is well maintained, and always carry adequate tools and spares to fix any problems you encounter.
“Always take a means of calling for help and should you get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble, dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.”
