In one incident at the weekend the  RNLI was requested to launch to reports of a drifting cruiser in the area of Castle Archdale. 

The crew did an extensive search of the area, spoke with boat users and companies in the area but nothing untoward was found. The crew were stood down after an hour and instructed they could return to station.

Later that evening, Belfast Coastguard requested the lifeboat to launch again to the Castle Archdale area. The inshore lifeboat and Rescue Watercraft travelled five miles north to the area. A 15ft speedboat had developed fuel issues and with the reasonable swell and weather conditions it washed up on the shore. 

The two passengers managed to get safely to shore. The crew got the boat refloated and brought it to safety in Castle Archdale Marina.

Speaking following the call outs, Enniskillen RNLI Helm Rory Hoy said, ‘We would like to commend the person who raised the alarm in the first call out, although nothing was found, we would always much rather launch and find that all is well than not launch at all. With challenging conditions , the gentleman remained calm with his son and called for help when they got into difficulty before being able to make their way to the marina. 

“As we enter the summer months, we would remind all users of Lough Erne to enjoy themselves but also to respect the water. Always wear a lifejacket, always carry a means of communication and always let someone ashore know where you are going and when you are due back.’

 If you think you see someone in difficulty, call 999 and ask for Coastguard.