The annual Boat Lift took place at the Ringsend Registered Fishermen & Private Boat Owners Association boatyard in Ireland
All the owners could do was lend a hand, or watch the proceedings and pray that their pride and joy would be delivered safely into the cradles beneath, which were pushed into place by the volunteer workforce as each boat came to rest. Most held their nerve admirably, with one or two notable exceptions. There was no need to worry.
They were in the capable hands of Arklow Crane Hire Operator Eddie Murphy and his son, Ryan, who was there to communicate detailed instructions to the All Terrain Mobile Crane from the yard and skilfully guide each boat into place.
In the end, everyone was happy with a job well done. The mission was complete by 5.45pm, almost three hours ahead of schedule. After that the volunteers and owners headed off to the Poolbeg Yacht Club for a well-earned drink, satisfied that the boats will rest easy on their cradles for the winter months.