Six people were rescued off the coast of Northern Ireland early Saturday morning after their 46-foot yacht became entangled in a fish farm.
The incident occurred in Red Bay, near Cushendall, County Antrim, when the yacht, en route from Oban, Scotland, to Portugal, lost all power and steering after making contact with the fish farm in 60-knot winds. The vessel became trapped.
The Belfast Coastguard received a distress call, prompting the launch of two lifeboats from Red Bay Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) at approximately 3:22 a.m. local time. RNLI crews described the conditions as difficult, with Force 9 gusting winds, driving rain, and darkness.
Observing that the occupants were safe, the RNLI crew decided to wait until daylight, which broke at 7:30 a.m., before proceeding. By 9:30 a.m., the lifeboat crew had successfully freed the yacht from the fish farm.
The rescued individuals remained onboard their yacht as it was towed to Glenarm. No injuries were reported. The yacht is currently undergoing repairs.
Paddy McLaughlin, Red Bay RNLI Coxswain, called the rescue a challenging operation in difficult weather but expressed satisfaction in bringing the sailors to safety. He commended the Coastguard and the lifeboat crew for their swift response and dedication during the seven-hour operation at sea.