Reports of a capsized catamaran prompted the launch of Kilrush RNLI lifeboat on Sunday morning.

Shortly after 11:30am on Sunday, Kilrush RNLI launched to a report of a capsized catamaran drifting near Corlis Point on the Shannon Estuary.

The volunteers were requested by Valentia Coast Guard, in favourable conditions, to Corlis Point on the Co Clare shore of the Shannon Estuary. The casualty vessel, a five metre sailing catamaran, was located within minutes.

Technical issues negated the ability of the two occupants to right the vessel and as a result they were drifting with the tide. The occupants were unharmed and the crew of Kilrush RNLI assisted in righting, and escorted the vessel back to Poulnasherry Bay, where they originally launched. Kilrush RNLI were stood down and returned to station at 1pm.

As the current COVID-19 restrictions continue to apply, Kilrush RNLI remain ready to launch should they be required. On Wednesday last, Kilrush RNLI responded to a report that a speedboat was drifting between Glin and Tarbert on the Shannon Estuary and was a danger to navigation. Kilrush RNLI located and towed the vessel, which had no occupants, to Tarbert Island.

“During COVID-19 restrictions Kilrush RNLI’s readiness to launch has not changed and continue to be fully operational and on call 24/7. Our two main priorities are the wellbeing of our volunteers and maintaining our lifesaving service. We want everyone to enjoy their time on the water while staying safe,” Kilrush RNLI Helm, Charlie Glynn explained.

Glynn advised, “Before you head out on the water make sure you are prepared and have checked the weather conditions, wear a lifejacket and make sure you have a means of calling for help should you need it. We urge anyone who sees somebody in trouble in the water or along the coast to use VHF Ch 16 or Dial 112 (or 999) and ask for the Coast Guard”.