Portrush RNLI all weather lifeboat launched to RIB in difficulty at Rathlin
Portrush All weather Lifeboat (ALB) was launched today (Monday 27th August) in response to a launch request from the Coastguard to reports of an 8.4 metre rib with engine failure at approximately two miles north-west off Rue Point, Rathlin Island. The RIB had seven people on board.
The lifeboat was launched at 3.36pm and arrived on scene at 4.28pm. The weather was overcast, and sea swell was moderate. The lifeboat crew quickly established a secure tow line to the RIB and towed it to Ballycastle Harbour arriving at approximately 5pm.
Keith Gilmore Portrush RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager said: 'This was a standard operation for the Volunteer Lifeboat Crew and something they train for on a regular basis. The crew arrived on scene and established a tow line to the rib. The weather conditions were not ideal, but the operation went according to plan and the rib was towed safely to the nearest harbour’
The All-weather Lifeboat returned to station at 5.54 pm refuelled and ready for the next service.
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