Cold and exhausted kayaker rescued by RNLI after six-hour ordeal off Antrim coast

Red Bay lifeboats. (Image: Colin King)

A lone kayaker who became stranded in rough seas off the County Antrim coast was rescued by RNLI volunteers late on Sunday night after spending around six hours on the water.

The kayaker had set off at approximately 6.30pm on Sunday (July 12) but got into difficulty around one-and-a-half miles north of Cushendun when his kayak became swamped by heavy sea swells, leaving him unable to paddle back to shore.

Cold and exhausted, he managed to contact Belfast Coastguard at around 11.30pm, prompting an emergency response. Both Red Bay RNLI lifeboats were launched to search for and rescue him.

Rescued from swamped kayak

Volunteer lifeboat crews found the kayaker in challenging conditions, with easterly winds and a heavy sea swell making the rescue more difficult.

After assessing the situation, the crew determined he needed urgent assistance and transferred him from his swamped kayak onto one of the lifeboats before returning safely to Cushendall.

There, the casualty was met by Ballycastle Coastguard and given casualty care. After recovering sufficiently, he was able to leave the scene.

RNLI warns conditions can change quickly

Red Bay RNLI Coxswain Liam O’Brien said the rescue highlighted how rapidly a routine trip can turn into an emergency.

“This was a great outcome as the kayaker was in serious trouble after becoming overwhelmed by the sea state and pure exhaustion.

“Even during the warmest weather, conditions offshore can take a bad turn very quickly and the water is extremely cold. Thankfully the kayaker managed to raise the alarm, and we were able to reach him in time.”

He also urged anyone heading onto the water to be prepared for emergencies.

“Always have a means of calling for help and if you end up in the water unexpectedly, float with your head tilted back and your ears submerged with your arms and legs extended. This will calm your breathing and give you time to raise the alarm and call for help.

“To raise the alarm dial 112 or 999 for the Coastguard.”

The rescue serves as a reminder that even during spells of warm summer weather, sea conditions around the Antrim coast can deteriorate rapidly, making suitable equipment, careful planning and a reliable means of communication essential before setting out.