Ten rescued after boat capsizes off Antrim coast in major emergency response

Ten people were brought to safety on Thursday evening after a six-metre boat capsized off the coast of Carrickfergus, sparking a multi-agency rescue operation involving Bangor RNLI, the Police Service of Northern Ireland, HM Coastguard and the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service.

The incident occurred shortly after 9.10pm on 19 June, when police received a report of a vessel overturned in the water near the Fisherman’s Quay area.

PSNI Inspector Bryan confirmed:

“Officers attended, along with colleagues from other emergency services and a number of people were rescued from the water. There have been no reports of any serious injuries at this time and all those on the boat have been accounted for.”

Bangor RNLI launches lifeboat in rapid response

Bangor RNLI was requested by HM Coastguard to launch its inshore lifeboat at 9.00pm. The weather at the time was calm with flat seas and overcast skies, providing favourable rescue conditions.

The lifeboat, helmed by John Bell with crew members Gareth Whan, Glen McMahon and David Beale, launched at 9.09pm and arrived on scene near the Downshire Railway Station by 9.20pm.

On arrival, the crew found the boat had capsized, leaving ten people in the water—some clinging to the upturned hull and others still submerged. A crew member entered the water to assist and all individuals were safely transferred to the lifeboat. Though cold and shaken, no one sustained serious injury.

The group was taken to shore at Carrickfergus and handed into the care of Coastguard personnel and paramedics from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service.

RNLI: Public urged to be water aware

Byron Griffiths, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Bangor RNLI, praised the coordinated response:

“We would like to wish everyone well following this evening’s incident, we are delighted that all are safe and well. There was a multi-agency response this evening and we would like to thank and commend all our colleagues in the various emergency services for the teamwork.”

With warmer weather forecast over the coming days, the RNLI is urging members of the public to exercise caution when near the water.

“Air temperatures may feel warm, but water temperatures are cold enough year-round to trigger cold-water shock,” said Mr Griffiths. “To stay safe, we encourage you to choose a lifeguarded beach and always swim between the red and yellow flags.”

The RNLI reiterated their core water safety advice:

• If you get into trouble in the water, remember Float to Live: Tilt your head back, relax, and control your breathing.

• If you see someone in danger, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.