Some members of the Royal St. George Yacht Club RIB Club enjoyed a superb inaugural outing to the west coast over the weekend, travelling from Dún Laoghaire to take part in the Inishbofin Charity RIB Run in aid of Cancer Care West. Six RSGYC ribs made the journey on Friday to Cleggan Pier, where they launched and joined an impressive fleet of over 60 ribs of all shapes and sizes, united in support of this very worthwhile cause.
Despite unseasonably cool, damp, and misty conditions on Saturday morning, spirits remained high throughout the group. The fleet departed Cleggan at 10:30am, heading along the dramatic Atlantic coastline towards Killary Fjord. The conditions did little to dampen enthusiasm, and participants were rewarded early on with the unforgettable sight of pods of dolphins playing alongside the boats, along with basking sharks feeding, adding a special touch to what was already a spectacular journey through some of Ireland’s most stunning coastal scenery.
Following the run, the fleet returned to Cleggan for a well-earned lunch and an opportunity to catch the Leinster match before continuing on to Inishbofin. There, a warm island welcome awaited, and a lively evening was enjoyed by all. The sense of camaraderie among RSGYC members and fellow participants from across the country was a highlight of the trip, with a great atmosphere ashore capping off an excellent day on the water.
On Sunday morning, the fleet regrouped and departed Inishbofin for the return leg to Cleggan, bidding farewell to their island hosts. The journey back proved equally memorable, with crews encountering basking sharks along the route—an extraordinary and unforgettable wildlife experience that underscored the magic of the west coast. Combined with the breathtaking landscapes and shared adventure, it was a fitting conclusion to a remarkable weekend.
This first outing for the Royal St. George Yacht Club RIB Club was an outstanding success, blending adventure, wildlife, community, and charitable fundraising. It is certain to become a regular feature on the club calendar. Photographs and videos from the trip are available via this link, and members are encouraged to watch this space for future RIB Club outings, which promise to be just as enjoyable and well supported. Interested in joining the rib Club? Reply to this edition of the Journal and we will be in touch.
