Ballybunion Sea & Cliff Rescue Crew Responds to Rising Tide Incident at Black Rocks
- Pat Nolan
- 24 hours ago
- 2 min read
Wednesday 27 May 2026
Ballybunion Sea & Cliff Rescue responded to an emergency callout on Wednesday afternoon after reports that several people had become stranded on rocks by a rising tide off the Kerry coastline.
The volunteer rescue unit was tasked at approximately 2:15pm following an alert from the Marine Rescue Sub Centre at Valentia, which requested the immediate launch of the station’s IB1 D Class in response to reports of persons trapped on the Black Rocks area near Ballybunion.
On arrival at the scene, rescue crews discovered that the individuals had managed to return safely to shore before assistance was required. The lifeboat subsequently returned to station, where it was washed down and prepared for service once again.
The incident unfolded during a particularly busy afternoon at Ladies Beach, with large crowds enjoying the warm weather conditions. Ballybunion Sea & Cliff Rescue expressed gratitude to beachgoers who quickly cleared belongings from the launch area to allow emergency crews rapid access to the water.
A spokesperson for the rescue service thanked members of the public for their cooperation, noting that the swift assistance from beach users helped ensure the rescue craft could be launched without delay.
The rescue organisation also used the incident to remind the public of the dangers posed by rising tides, particularly around rocky coastal areas where visitors can quickly become cut off from land.
With lifeguard patrols not yet in operation for the summer season, the group urged anyone visiting beaches or coastal locations to remain vigilant and tide-aware at all times.
The organisation reiterated that anyone concerned for their safety or the safety of others at sea or along the coast should immediately dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard, who can then activate the appropriate emergency response resources.
“We’d rather turn out to 100 calls like these than not be called to the one where we are essential,” the spokesperson said. “If in doubt, there is no doubt make that call.”
