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Personal Watercraft

Shannon Bridge - May 2023

A fatal jet ski accident occurred in May 2023 near Shannon Bridge in Killaloe/Ballina when a jet ski carrying three people capsized during a sharp high-speed manoeuvre in a low-speed zone. The driver, who was not wearing a personal flotation device, entered the water and drowned. The MCIB investigation found the incident was caused by operating at excessive speed, performing risky manoeuvres in an unsuitable confined area, lack of a PFD, and absence of proper personal watercraft training.

Sailing

Cork Harbour - October 2021

A sailing incident occurred on 24 October 2021 during a race in Cork Harbour when the yacht “Jelly Baby” grounded on a lee shore after a crew member went overboard while resolving a snagged halyard. The MCIB noted contributing factors including the halyard issue, the crew member not being tethered at that moment, and the difficulty of managing an unexpected MOB during active sail handling. The report focuses on equipment management, use of tethers, and MOB readiness as key learning points for future racing. REPORT NO. MCIB/314

Baltimore - June 2023

On 6 June 2023 the sailing vessel “Inish Ceinn” departed from Baltimore, Co. Cork for a short coastal passage to Cape Clear. Shortly after departure the vessel’s propeller became fouled by a large trawl net, the engine lost power and the yacht drifted onto rocks near Sherkin Island. All five persons onboard were safely rescued but the vessel was a total loss. The MCIB identified the propulsion failure caused by the net entanglement and highlighted the need for effective passage planning, snorkel checks in coastal waters, and emergency anchoring capability. REPORT NO. MCIB/327

Powerboat

Bruckless Pier - September 2023

A fatal boating incident occurred in September 2023 at Bruckless Pier, Co. Donegal, when a man operating his motor boat alone fell overboard in poor weather and drowned. The MCIB found the incident was caused by operating solo in unsafe conditions, lack of a lifejacket, no means of raising the alarm, and the vessel’s limited ability for re-boarding after entering the water. REPORT NO. MCIB/332

Lacken Pier - July 2023

A fatal boating incident occurred on 16 July 2023 at Lacken Pier, Beltra, Co. Mayo, when the owner of a recreational craft entered the water during a launching operation and was swept out to sea before being recovered deceased. The MCIB found the incident was caused by attempting to board or enter the water unsafely in a drifting boat, lack of safety planning and preparation, absence of adequate re-boarding ability and no personal flotation device worn. REPORT NO. MCIB/329

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