Larne RNLI launches new Shannon class lifeboat in first emergency callout

Larne RNLI’s new Shannon class all-weather lifeboat Machiko Nancy

Larne RNLI’s new Shannon class all-weather lifeboat Machiko Nancy was launched for the first time on Sunday afternoon after two crew members onboard a broken-down RIB got into difficulty off the County Antrim coast.

The volunteer crew were requested to launch at 2.48pm on Monday 25 May following a call from HM Coastguard after a member of the crew onboard the vessel reported that they had suffered a breakdown while at sea.

The incident marked the first shout for the station’s new Shannon class lifeboat, with the emergency unfolding in the busy main shipping channel northeast of Larne.

Crew located near Hunters Reef

Coxswain Martin Agnew, Mechanic Derek Rea, Navigator Dave Somerville and crew members Samantha Agnew, Shea McFerran and Gary Hanna launched aboard Machiko Nancy and made their way to the casualties’ last reported location.

Weather conditions at the time were described as favourable, with a southerly breeze and smooth seas helping crews reach the scene quickly.

The casualties were located around three-and-a-half nautical miles northeast of Larne, close to Hunters Reef in the main shipping channel.

Once on scene, the Coxswain carried out an assessment and confirmed that everyone onboard the RIB was safe and accounted for.

It was established that the vessel had suffered mechanical failure.

Rescue operation escalated after restart failed

Mechanic Derek Rea boarded the casualty vessel in an attempt to restart the engine, but despite efforts to get the RIB running again, the restart proved unsuccessful.

Following a further assessment at sea, the decision was taken that the safest option was to establish a tow line and bring the vessel back towards the safety of Larne Harbour.

The all-weather lifeboat successfully towed the RIB to the entrance of the Port of Larne.

The rescue operation was then assisted by Larne RNLI’s inshore D class lifeboat Terry, helmed by Willie Evans with Jordan McIlhinney and Jack Healy onboard.

Together, both RNLI crews escorted the vessel safely back to East Antrim Boat Club.

A jump pack was then used to restart the RIB’s engine, allowing the crew to continue their journey home following a final assessment by the Coxswain.

RNLI urges boat users to prepare before heading to sea

Speaking after the callout, Larne RNLI Coxswain Martin Agnew praised the casualties for taking the correct precautions before going to sea.

He said:

“We would like to wish the crew well. The casualties were wearing the correct safety equipment and had the means to contact the Coastguard. They did the right thing when they realised that they had broken down.

“We would encourage anyone planning a trip to sea to check their vessels and ensure engines are well maintained. When going out, always carry adequate tools and spares and ensure you have enough fuel for your journey.

“If you do get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.”

Monday’s incident provided an early real-world test for Larne RNLI’s new Shannon class lifeboat, with the volunteer crew successfully bringing the casualties safely ashore and preventing the situation from escalating in one of the area’s busiest maritime routes.