The HYC Cruising Group Armada season for 2025 included a variety of planned destinations: the National Yacht Club, Red Rock, Skerries, Lambay, Greystones, a joint sail with NYC to Lambay, and finally, Killiney Bay.
In keeping with tradition, the fleet sailed to Killiney Bay on Saturday, 23rd August. At 11:00 AM, nine cruisers slipped lines and departed Howth Marina in light south-easterly conditions with misty rain. Optimism was high, as the forecast promised sunshine later in the day — and fingers were firmly crossed that Mother Nature would oblige.
Passage to Killiney Bay
As usual, Dublin Port VTS was contacted by VHF. Permission was granted for a direct passage from the Bailey to Dalkey, saving the Armada a diversion via the 3 and 4 channel buoys and trimming around 30 minutes from the trip.
The fleet motor-sailed and arrived in Killiney Bay at 13:00. True to promise, the weather transformed on arrival — clouds lifted, the sky turned blue, and the sun came out to greet the fleet. Anchors were dropped in the sheltered waters of Sorrento Bay, with its picture-perfect backdrop of white sand, the green slopes of Killiney Hill, and the railway line running above the shore. Dalkey Island, sparkling water, and enviable gardens completed the scene. Swimmers from the beach took keen interest in the anchored yachts, circling and chatting with crews.
A Setback for Pucabán
While Admiral O’Neill was taking a tally of the fleet, a call came through on VHF from Pucabán. Skipper Gary reported that the boat was fouled in a lobster pot rope off the south end of Beauford Bank. Though not in danger, he had alerted the Coast Guard, who tasked Dun Laoghaire RNLI to assist.
With the situation in hand, the fleet settled in for lunch — accompanied by the familiar sounds of corks popping, cans hissing, and sandwiches unwrapped in foil. Swimmers then took to the water, with at least a dozen sailors enjoying the bay in sunshine.
By mid-afternoon, anchors were raised and the return leg to Howth began. Contact was re-established with Pucabán, who by then had been freed thanks to the RNLI and was preparing to set sail. She later rendezvoused with Gerryatric at the entrance to Howth Harbour before being safely assisted into the marina.
All boats that reached Killiney returned home in good spirits, with crews delighted after a memorable day.
Sadly, this was the final scheduled Armada of 2025. However, Admiral O’Neill is exploring the possibility of an Autumn Equinox Armada. Weather permitting, this will align with the Autumn League after-race BBQ. Should Mother Nature give the green light, Group Captain Sinéad will circulate details to members.
The Story of Pucabán
While en route to Killiney Bay, Pucabán’s crew suddenly experienced a loss of engine power when the helm wobbled and the propeller fouled in a submerged rope along the Burford Bank. With the main down and unable to free themselves, the Coast Guard was contacted.
Dun Laoghaire RNLI’s All-Weather Lifeboat responded swiftly, assisted by the RIB Sparky. The ground rope was located and, after skilled grappling by RNLI crew Ciara and Simon, the rope was brought near the surface where it was cut free. A 10-metre length of thick polypropylene emerged from beneath the transom, finally releasing Pucabán after three hours.
The lifeboat coxswain offered a tow into Dun Laoghaire, but the crew chose instead to sail gently back to Howth, where Gerryatric provided escort across Dublin Bay and a final tow into the marina. The prop was later lifted clear of the water, revealing the tightly wrapped rope. Fortunately, no lasting damage appears to have been done.
The skipper and crew of Pucabán expressed their deep gratitude to both the RNLI for their professionalism and to Admiral O’Neill and the crew of Gerryatric for their support and seamanship.
A day of adventure, sunshine, seamanship, and camaraderie — the very essence of the HYC Cruising Group spirit.
Report by Gerry Davis and Gerry O'Neill
