A yacht - the Giuliana, has sunk 90 kilometres off the Wexford coast after experiencing difficulties in the early hours of this morning.
The RNLI lifeboat at Kilmore Quay and Waterford based helicopter Rescue 117 were involved in the operation to rescue four people on board.
At 2.20am this morning sailing yacht ‘Giuliana’ alerted the Marine Rescue Co-ordination Centre (MRCC) that they were experiencing steering failure and required immediate assistance.
There were 4 people on board the yacht which had earlier left Kilmore Quay bound for Vigo in Spain
Weather on scene was reported to be Force 4 south westerly winds with a moderate sea state (waves 1.25-2.5m)
Kilmore Quay lifeboat attended and found the Yacht was taking on board water. Waterford based Coast Guard helicopter R117 was tasked to assist.
Attempts were made to salvage the Guiliana with pumps. However, just after 8:00am, the decision was taken to abandon yacht.
The Giuliana has now sunk and the 4 persons on board were returned safely to shore.
