Achill Island RNLI seeking volunteer lifeboat crew and launch authorities
- Pat Nolan
- 5 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Thursday 19 March 2026
Achill Island RNLI is on the lookout for passionate individuals who live or work locally to join their esteemed team at one of Ireland's most picturesque locations. This recruitment drive coincides with the station's 30th anniversary, making it an exciting time to become part of the legacy.
The station is searching for three new volunteer lifeboat crew members to serve aboard the Trent class lifeboat, Sam and Ada Moody. This lifeboat has been a stalwart guardian for the Achill community for nearly three decades. As a crew member, you will play a vital role in ensuring the safety and rescue operations at sea.
In addition to crew members, the RNLI is also seeking three committed individuals to take on the role of Launch Authorities. This position is not a sea-going but is crucial for coordinating the launch of lifeboats during emergencies, ensuring timely and efficient responses.
The station which sits on the south-east of the island in Cloghmore is seeking people aged between 18 and 65 who live or work in the local area surrounding Achill to get in touch via the email recruitment@rnli.org.uk.
Achill Island RNLI Coxswain Dave Curtis said: ‘We are a close-knit crew, ready day and night, every day of the year to help save lives at sea. Located where we are, we can be called on to help people in difficulty off our coast, those in offshore island communities and seafarers. We are very proud of our lifesaving history and are keen to ensure that we continue to save lives at sea well into the future.
We know from experience that many people would love to get involved but are not sure if they would be suitable or how to go about it. We’d love to hear from those interested and have a chat to answer any questions. The reward that comes from helping someone in trouble on the water or bringing them home to grateful family and friends is something you cannot explain.’
Dave adds that being a good communicator and team player is vital: ‘Successful applicants who have passed a medical examination would begin their training at the lifeboat station here in Achill, by getting to know the lifeboat and the personal protective equipment they will have to wear and use at sea. Training moves at their pace.’
Applications close on Sunday 12 April.
