Full Breakdown
Six Sailors Rescued After Seven-Hour RNLI Operation Off Cushendall
By Drooid · · How we work
Rescue Operation Off Cushendall
On Saturday, 12 September, a 46-ft yacht travelling from Oban, Scotland to Portugal lost power and steering after colliding with a fish farm in Red Bay, County Antrim. The vessel became trapped in the fish cages amid Force 9 gusting winds and 60-knot conditions, prompting a Mayday call to Belfast Coastguard.
Red Bay Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) launched its all-weather lifeboat at 03:22 BST, accompanied by an inshore lifeboat. Because of the darkness, gale-force winds and driving rain, the crew decided the six people aboard should remain on the yacht until daylight. The lifeboats stood by through the night, and at 07:30 the crew awaited improved visibility.
At 09:30, the RNLI crew successfully freed the yacht from the fish farm and towed it toward Glenarm. The rescued sailors were transferred to the RNLI lifeboat and reached Glenarm around 10:00, where Larne Coastguard provided assistance. No injuries were reported, and the yacht is now undergoing repairs.
Incident Background
The yacht’s route from Oban to Portugal took it through the busy waters of the North Channel. Contact with the fish farm caused a total loss of propulsion and steering, leaving the vessel adrift in 60-knot winds and heavy rain. The combination of high winds, darkness and the entanglement in the fish cages created a hazardous situation that required a prolonged rescue effort.
Official Statements
Red Bay RNLI issued a statement describing the weather as “difficult” because of Force 9 gusting winds, driving rain and the darkness of night. The organization highlighted the decision to keep the sailors aboard the yacht until daylight as a safety measure given the severe conditions.
Verbatim Quote
“This was a challenging call out in difficult weather conditions, but we were delighted to bring the sailors to safety, and we would like to wish them well.” — Red Bay RNLI Coxswain
Timeline & Statistics
- 03:22 BST – All-weather lifeboat and inshore lifeboat launched.
- 07:30 – Decision made for sailors to remain aboard until daylight.
- 09:30 – Yacht freed from fish farm; tow to Glenarm commenced.
- 10:00 – Sailors arrived in Glenarm; Larne Coastguard provided assistance.
- Six individuals rescued; no injuries reported.
- Force 9 winds, 60-knot gusts, and heavy rain characterized the rescue environment.