Two paddleboarders rescued from Isle of Muck after public raises alarm

Larne RNLI all-weather lifeboat Machiko Nancy. (Image: Jason Bain)

Two paddleboarders have been brought safely back to shore after being found on the Isle of Muck off Islandmagee on Saturday evening.

Larne RNLI’s volunteer crew was returning from an earlier emergency call when it received a fresh request from HM Coastguard at around 5.20pm on 11 July.

A member of the public had spotted that the paddleboarders were in difficulty and raised the alarm — a decision the lifeboat crew said was “always the right thing to do”.

Paddleboarders found on island

The all-weather lifeboat Machiko Nancy headed towards the casualties’ last reported location, with weather conditions described as good, although there was a moderate breeze and slight seas.

The two paddleboarders were located on the Isle of Muck, close to the Islandmagee coastline.

After assessing the situation, Coxswain Martin Agnew determined that the safest course of action was to take both casualties aboard the lifeboat and return them to Portmuck Harbour.

A welfare assessment was carried out once they were safely aboard, with both paddleboarders found to be safe and well.

They were then brought to Portmuck Harbour and handed into the care of the Portmuck Coastguard team.

‘Raising the alarm was the right thing to do’

Coxswain Martin Agnew said:

“We would like to wish both paddleboarders well; we would also like to commend the member of the public for raising the alarm, this is always the right thing to do.

“Should you see someone in difficulty, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.”

The lifeboat was crewed by Coxswain Martin Agnew, Mechanic Ross Stewart, Navigators Roy McMulland and Chris Dorman, and crew members Shea McFerran and Catherine Lee.

RNLI safety advice for paddleboarders

The RNLI warned that conditions can change rapidly at sea, even when the water appears calm from the shore.

Offshore winds and tidal currents can quickly carry paddleboarders away from land before they realise how far they have travelled.

Anyone taking to the water is advised to wear a suitable leash and personal flotation device, carry a means of calling for help and check the weather forecast and tide times before setting out.

Paddleboarders should also tell someone where they are going and when they expect to return, avoid going out alone where possible and use a lifeguarded beach, launching and returning between the black and white chequered flags.

Anyone who gets into difficulty should remain with their board where it is safe to do so, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.