Larne RNLI called to assist crew of small motor boat with engine difficulties

Larne RNLI was called to assist the crew of small motor boat with engine difficulties off Islandmagee last night.

Larne RNLI launched the relief all-weather lifeboat Duke of Windsor yesterday evening (Wednesday 30 May) to assist three people on a small motor boat which had broken down somewhere between Muck Island and Brown’s Bay.

The lifeboat launched at 10.28pm after being requested by Belfast Coastguard to assist the vessel which was experiencing issues with their engine.

Weather conditions were described as being a warm, pleasant evening, with no swell and calm seas.

Once on scene, the volunteer crew observed that the crew of the motor boat had managed to resolve the problem themselves and the boat was operational again. The lifeboat crew offered to escort the vessel back to safety at Larne Harbour.

Speaking after the call out, Frank Healy, Larne RNLI Coxswain said: ‘We are glad that the vessel knew to contacted the coastguard when they got into difficulty, this is always the right thing to do. We would rather launch to find a problem has been rectified when we get on scene, than not launch at all. If we can be of assistance to anyone, our volunteers are here to help.

As we approach the summer season, we would remind everyone going to sea to always respect the water. Plan ahead and go prepared. Regularly check your vessel and engine and ensure you have enough fuel for your trip. Always wear a lifejacket and always carry a means of communication. Always let someone know where you are going and when you are expected back. Should you get into difficulty, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.’

Ends

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For more information please contact Steven Lee, Larne RNLI Volunteer Deputy Lifeboat Press Officer on 07753274490, email [email protected] or contact Nuala McAloon RNLI Regional Media Officer Ireland on 00353876483547 or email [email protected] or Niamh Stephenson RNLI Regional Media Manager Ireland on 00353871254124 or [email protected]

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Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around Ireland and the UK. The RNLI operates over 230 lifeboat stations with 46 in Ireland, 10 of which are in Northern Ireland, and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches with 11 in Northern Ireland. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824 its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 142,200 lives. The RNLI is a charity registered in England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.

A charity registered in England and Wales (209603) and Scotland (SCO37736). Charity number 20003326 in the Republic of Ireland.

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,000 lives.

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For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, X, TikTok and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.

Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.