Youghal RNLI and Rescue 117 Were Already at the Casualty in Ireland

A man was rescued from a boat off the coast of Waterford, Ireland, on Tuesday after suffering a suspected shark bite while on board. The incident occurred about four miles off Ram Head, Ardmore, on a five-metre pleasure boat carrying five people. Ballycotton RNLI said it was part of the multi-agency operation after receiving a request from Dublin Coast Guard at around 4.15pm.

The rescue effort involved Ballycotton RNLI, Youghal RNLI and an Irish Coast Guard helicopter. Ballycotton RNLI's all-weather Trent-class lifeboat, The Austin Lidbury, was launched at 4.30pm. "With calm sea conditions and good visibility, the lifeboat arrived on scene at approximately 5.10pm.

Youghal RNLI and Rescue 117 were already at the casualty vessel, the RNLI said. "Both lifeboats remained on standby while the casualty was winched from the vessel by Rescue 117 and transferred for emergency evacuation to Cork University Hospital. The rest of the people on board did not require assistance, and the vessel later returned safely to Dungarvan.

The coxswain on duty, Eolan Walsh, described the operation as "a well-coordinated multi-agency response". "Our crew were pleased to be able to support the operation and remain on scene while the casualty was transferred for emergency treatment and we wish the casualty a full recovery, Walsh said. "Incidents such as this are a reminder that conditions at sea can change quickly and that anyone heading offshore should make safety a priority, he added. The casualty's condition has not been disclosed.