Lough Ree RNLI came to the aid of 26 people on Monday night after three boats ran aground north of the Black Islands.
The volunteer crew were requested to launch their inshore lifeboat at 7.02pm following a report from the Irish Coast Guard that three cruisers were in distress on Lough Ree.
Athlone Sub Aqua Club was also tasked.
The Tara Scougall launched from its base at Coosan Point with helm Stewart McMickan, Liam Sherringham, Emmet Devereux and Patrick Walsh onboard. Weather conditions at the time were squally with a force 6 wind blowing.
Within 10 minutes, the lifeboat was on scene and found two 52ft cruisers and one 37ft cruiser hard aground on a shoal north of the Black Islands. After assessing that all 26 onboard were present, safe and well, and all wearing lifejackets, the lifeboat set about re-floating the three vessels.
A lifeboat crew member went onboard each casualty vessel to determine if there was any damage or water ingress. Once established that all was well, the three vessels were successfully re-floated and carried on their way.
Lough Ree RNLI and the Athlone Sub Aqua Club left the scene shortly afterwards and returned to their respective bases.
“We were delighted to help this evening and we were glad to find all onboard the vessels were safe and well. We would like to commend our colleagues from the Athlone Sub Aqua Club who also responded to this call out.
“As we begin another month of the summer holidays, we would like to remind everyone planning a trip or venturing out on the water to enjoy themselves and keep safety in mind. Always carry a means of communication, always wear a lifejacket or suitable floatation device, ensure your boat is well maintained and has sufficient fuel for your trip, and if you get into difficulty or see anyone else in distress or requiring assistance, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard,” Pat Coffey, Lough Ree RNLI Deputy Launching Authority, speaking after the rescue, said.
