Barry Dock RNLI rescue two people after kayak capsizes off Aberthaw

HM Coastguard tasked Barry Dock RNLI’s D-class inshore lifeboat following reports of two people in difficulty in the water near Aberthaw. The D-class lifeboat launched with helm Andy and crew members Ben, Gerwyn and Kris, making best speed towards Limpet Bay following the Coastguard request for assistance.

As the volunteer crew made their way to the scene, the information came through that the kayak had repeatedly capsized while the pair were attempting to get back onboard. On arrival, one casualty was found sitting on top of the kayak, while the second remained in the water holding onto it after being unable to re-board.

The lifeboat arrived within 25 minutes of the call being made but by that point, the pair had drifted approximately two and a half miles from Ffontygary steps to just off the Cason. The casualty in the water was clearly tired and cold after spending a prolonged period in the sea.

Although the weather was warm and sunny, sea temperatures around the Vale coastline are currently only around 11–12°C. The incident highlights not only how quickly the powerful tides and currents of the Bristol Channel can carry people away from their original position, but also how rapidly cold water can affect even experienced water users.

Both casualties had been wearing lifejackets, and one was carrying a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch. After realising they were unable to get back onto the kayak, they were able to contact someone ashore, who called 999 and asked for the Coastguard. They, along with the kayak, were safely recovered onto the lifeboat and returned to shore, where they were handed over to HM Coastguard.

Andy, helm of the D-class inshore lifeboat, said:

“Even when people are experienced and prepared, things can go wrong very quickly at sea, particularly in the Bristol Channel where the tides and currents are extremely powerful.

“This incident highlights the importance of wearing the correct safety equipment and carrying a means of calling for help, but it also shows the value of making good decisions when things don't go to plan.

“The casualties did exactly the right things. They were both wearing lifejackets, they had a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch, they called for help when they realised they were unable to get back onboard and return safely to shore, and they stayed with their kayak.

“Staying with the kayak made them much easier for the lifeboat crew to spot, while calling for help early meant assistance could be launched before the situation became more serious. All of those actions played an important part in bringing this incident to a safe outcome.

“People often see the sunshine and assume the water is warm, but at this time of year sea temperatures are still very cold and spending 25 minutes in the water can quickly leave someone tired, cold and struggling to help themselves.

“The casualties drifted a considerable distance in a very short space of time, which shows just how quickly conditions can change. We’re really pleased this incident ended safely and would like to thank all of our volunteer crew who responded.”

The RNLI is reminding anyone heading onto the water to always wear suitable safety equipment, carry a means of communication, and check the weather, tides and conditions before setting off.

If you see anyone in difficulty in the water or along the coast, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

Ends

Notes to editors

• Barry Dock RNLI has been saving lives at sea since 1901 and is currently marking its 125th anniversary year in 2026.

• The station operates a Shannon class all-weather lifeboat and a D-class inshore lifeboat, providing lifesaving cover along the Vale of Glamorgan coastline and the wider Bristol Channel.

• The Shannon class all-weather lifeboat is one of the most advanced lifeboats in the RNLI fleet and is capable of operating in the most challenging conditions.

• The D-class inshore lifeboat is designed for rescues close to shore, in surf, shallow water and areas inaccessible to larger lifeboats.

• Barry Dock RNLI is operated entirely by volunteers, with crew members responding to emergencies 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

• The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteer lifeboat crews provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the coasts of the United Kingdom and Ireland.

• The RNLI's water safety advice for kayakers and canoeists includes:

• Always wear a suitable lifejacket or buoyancy aid.
• Carry a means of calling for help, such as a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch.
• Check weather forecasts, tides and local conditions before launching.
• Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
• If you get into difficulty, stay with your craft if it is safe to do so, as it is much easier for rescuers to spot than a person alone in the water.

RNLI Media Contacts

For further information, please contact:

Lisa Newberry, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for RNLI Wales & West, [email protected]

Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for Wales, West of England and Isle of Man, 07977 728 315, [email protected]

Danielle Rush, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for Wales, West of England and Isle of Man, 07786 668829, [email protected]

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI is the charity that 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 146,700 lives.

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