Ballyglass RNLI responds to report of missing kayaker

Sunday 22 June 2025

Ballyglass RNLI were requested to launch as part of a multi-agency response following a report of a missing kayaker who had failed to make contact with his friend on shore who alerted the emergency services.

Ballyglass RNLI's all-weather lifeboat. Photo Credit: RNLI/Nigel Millard

The volunteer crew were requested to launch both the all-weather and inshore lifeboats at 17:13 on Saturday evening (21 June). Both lifeboats proceeded to the location of last sighting which was Portacloy beach.

While en route there was a reported sighting of an individual on rocks. Soon after the inshore crew were stood down with confirmation by the Garda Síochána that the casualty was safe.

The crew of the all-weather lifeboat were requested by Malin Head Coast Guard to retrieve the upturned kayak from the sea as it would be a hazard to navigation. Following visual assistance from the Sligo based helicopter Rescue 118, the volunteer crew recovered the upturned kayak two miles from the reported coordinates.

The all-weather lifeboat then return to station and was back ready for service again at 18:45hrs.

If you see anyone in difficulty on or near the water dial 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.