Courtmacsherry RNLI were called out at 2pm to go to the aid of the 30 foot yacht which got into difficulty while sailing from Kinsale to Glandore.
Conditions at sea were worsening by the time the lifeboat crew reached the yacht, which was towed to Kinsale.
The sailor was very pleased to see the lifeboat crew and expressed his extreme thanks to all involved in the rescue.