Newcastle RNLI comes to the aid of lone sailor on 20ft boat that runs aground on Dundrum Bay
Newcastle RNLI came to the aid of a lone sailor early in the morning after his 20ft boat got into difficulty and ran aground at the entrance to Dundrum inner bay.
Speaking following the call out, Johnny Whyte, Newcastle RNLI Deputy Launching Authority said: ‘The sailor was found to be safe and well but he did the right thing raising the alarm for help when he knew he was difficulty.
“We would remind anyone planning a trip to sea to always go prepared. Always ensure you have a means of communication such as a working VHF radio or mobile phone.
“Always wear a lifejacket or suitable buoyancy aid while on deck and make sure your vessel’s engine is well maintained.
“Check the weather forecast and tide times before leaving and let someone on the shore know where you are going and when you are due back.
“Should you get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble, dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.’
The volunteer crew were requested to launch their inshore lifeboat shortly after 9.30am following the report from Belfast Coastguard that a vessel with one person onboard had run aground.
The lifeboat helmed by Thomas Davis and with three crew members onboard was deployed and swiftly made its way to the scene in a southerly Force 4 wind.
The lifeboat arrived on scene to a strong swell in the bar mouth.
The crew assessed the situation and found the sailor to be safe and well.
They then made a decision to tow the boat off the sand and back to the nearest safe port which was the vessel’s moorings in Dundrum.
