Better to be safe than sorry: RNLI issues warning after Portrush rescue

An eight metre yacht with one person on board was safely brought to shore off the Causeway Coast on Wednesday morning, April 8, after suffering engine trouble near the Skerries, prompting a call-out for Portrush RNLI’s inshore lifeboat.

The volunteer crew was tasked by HM Coastguard at 11.29am following reports that the vessel was in difficulty off the Skerries, close to Portrush Harbour.

In calm spring conditions, with clear skies, good visibility and only a light wind, the lifeboat launched swiftly to assist the stricken yacht as it made its way towards harbour.

Lifeboat crew launched after distress report

Portrush RNLI’s inshore lifeboat crew of four volunteers arrived on scene at 11.50am, just over 20 minutes after the launch request was received.

On arrival, the crew found the yacht had lost engine power while approaching Portrush Harbour, leaving the lone occupant unable to continue safely under power.

Working alongside a local fisherman who was also in the area, the RNLI crew secured the vessel and assisted in towing it safely back into Portrush.

The coordinated response ensured the yacht and its sole occupant reached shore without injury.

Calm conditions helped rescue effort

Sea and weather conditions at the time were described as ideal for the rescue operation, with light winds and excellent visibility aiding the response.

While the conditions reduced the immediate risk, the incident serves as an early reminder of the dangers that can arise as more vessels return to the water at the start of the boating season.

With recreational boating activity beginning to increase along the North Coast, emergency services and rescue volunteers are often called on to deal with mechanical failures, navigational issues and changing sea conditions.

RNLI seasonal safety reminder to boat users

Following the rescue, Lifeboat Operations Manager Beni McAllister issued a timely warning to those preparing to head out on the water this spring and summer.

He said:

“A breakdown like this can happen to anyone especially as the season is starting and boats are starting to get back into the water.

“Just make sure to check everything before you set off, wear a lifejacket, and always have a means of calling for assistance. Better to be safe than sorry”.

The RNLI is urging all boat users across Northern Ireland’s coastline to carry out pre-launch checks, ensure engines and communications equipment are in working order, and always wear appropriate safety gear.

Wednesday’s call-out ended safely, but the charity says simple precautions can make a critical difference if trouble develops at sea.

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At a glance

• Portrush RNLI launched at 11.29am on Wednesday

• Call-out followed reports of a yacht in difficulty near the Skerries

• Vessel was around eight metres off the Skerries, near Portrush Harbour

• One person was on board the yacht

• The yacht had developed engine trouble

• Four RNLI crew members reached the scene at 11.50am

• A local fisherman assisted with the rescue

• The vessel was towed safely into Portrush

• No injuries were reported

• RNLI has issued a seasonal boating safety reminder