Skerries RNLI rescue two stranded kayakers

Skerries RNLI were tasked shortly after 5pm following a 999 call to Dublin Coast Guard from one of the kayakers who informed the Coast Guard that they had landed on Shenick island and were unable to make their way back to the mainland.

The volunteer crew in Skerries launched their Atlantic 85 Inshore Lifeboat “Louis Simson” and made their way to Shenick island. They conducted a quick search of the shoreline and soon established contact with the two men. A member of the crew was put ashore to speak to the casualties and assess their condition. It transpired that they had been caught off guard by a sudden change in the weather conditions and were trying to seek shelter on the island. However, as they were landing, one man slipped on the rocks and lost hold of his kayak which was quickly taken away by the wind.

The lifeboat was maneuvered into shallow water in the shelter of the island and both men were brought on board. They were returned safely to Skerries harbour and despite being cold and wet, they required no further assistance.

Conditions at the time were moderate with a force five westerly wind.

Speaking about the call out, volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for Skerries RNLI, Gerry Canning said: ‘Situations can change very quickly at sea. Thankfully these guys recognised that they were in a potentially dangerous situation and made contact with the Coast Guard to raise the alarm. It shows the importance of carrying a means of contacting the shore when you head out on the water.’

RNLI media contacts

For more information please telephone Gerry Canning Skerries RNLI volunteer lifeboat press officer on 087 988 4965 email [email protected] or Niamh Stephenson RNLI Regional Media Manager Ireland on 087 1254 124 or 01 8900 460 email [email protected] or Nuala McAloon RNLI Regional Media Officer Ireland Tel: 087 6483547 email: [email protected] or contact RNLI Public Relations on 01202 336789

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.

Learn more about the RNLI

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.