Lifeboats tasked by Belfast Coastguard at 16:08 to assist two sailing yachts, each with 2 people on board, stranded on a lee shore north of Ballyronan Marina.
One yacht had gone aground in difficult conditions, the second unfortunately also became a casualty while attempting to help the first yacht.
Recognising the complexity and risk of a lee shore rescue in deteriorating Force 7 south-easterly winds, Lough Neagh Rescue launched a major multi-station response:
Lifeboats from Kinnego and Antrim crossed the lough in stormy conditions to locate the stricken vessels.
A rapid response vehicle and shore team from Ardboe was deployed to Ballyronan marina.
A specialist Milpro rescue boat was launched at Ballyronan Marina to support operations in the shallow, hazardous waters.
On scene the Antrim lifeboat secured a tow and safely returned the first yacht and its crew to Ballyronan Marina and ensured the safety of those on board.
The second yacht, hard aground in shallow water, required a more complex approach. Ardboe’s Milpro support vessel boat safely took two casualties from the second yacht off and handed them over to LNR shore teams.
The Milpro vessel was then used again to secure a tow line, which was then passed to Kinnego Lifeboat in deeper water, enabling the second stranded yacht to be freed and subsequently returned to the safety of Ballyronan Marina.
We extend our thanks to the members of Ballyronan Yacht Club for their assistance and to the Belfast Coastguard for their coordination.
Lifeboats then returned to station and were washed, refuelled and made ready for service.