Yacht rescued off Mayo coast was taking part in Transatlantic race

A YACHT towed into Clare Island by Achill RNLI yesterday (Monday) morning had been taking part in a Transatlantic race when it lost power.

The vessel was located 40 miles off the Mayo coast on Sunday - its last known position having been off Co. Antrim.

The Irish Coast Guard shared more details about the dramatic rescue last night.

They reported how on Saturday morning, the MRCC Dublin received a request for assistance in locating the yacht Cariberia, which was taking part in the OSTAR Transatlantic race from Plymouth in the UK to Newport Rhode Island in the USA with one person on board.

The vessel’s last known position was 175 nautical miles northwest of Downpatrick Head in Co. Antrim.

It had indicated an intention to return to the UK but all contact was then lost.

A search was initiated, which involved Sligo-based R118 and a UK Coastguard fixed-wing aircraft, with the vessel found on Sunday evening off Achill Island.

As reported yesterday, Achill RNLI, in a 14-hour operation, towed the yacht back to the safety of Clare Island.

More details on Achill RNLI's involvement in rescue as reported yesterday: https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2022/05/23/rescue-services-respond-to-yacht-that-lost-power-off-mayo-coast/