Busy Evening for Enniskillen RNLI as Crews Respond to Three Incidents on Lough Erne

Tuesday 26 May 2026

Enniskillen RNLI volunteers came to the aid of eight people across three separate call outs on Lough Erne on Sunday evening during a busy Bank Holiday period.

Photo Credit: RNLI/Enniskillen

Launching in calm conditions, with light southerly Force 1 winds and good visibility, the crew of the inshore lifeboat Ted Dawber were first tasked by Belfast Coastguard at 3.45pm following reports of a vessel suffering mechanical difficulties with two people onboard.

The casualty vessel was located and both occupants were found safe and well. Following an assessment, the volunteer crew determined the safest option was to place an RNLI crew member onboard the vessel to assist with a tow back to Castle Archdale.

Later that evening, at 7.43pm, Enniskillen RNLI was requested again by Belfast Coastguard to assist a second vessel carrying five people after it sustained damage having struck an object in the water.

Once on scene, the volunteer crew confirmed all onboard were safe and uninjured. After assessing the situation, the helm decided the most appropriate course of action was to tow the damaged vessel to Muckross slipway.

While returning from the second incident, the lifeboat crew received a further request for assistance at 10.25pm after concerns were raised for a jet ski rider in the Castle Archdale area who had not returned after three hours.

A shoreline and island search was launched around Castle Archdale Caravan Park slipway, with additional support requested from Carrybridge RNLI and Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 118 from Sligo.

The search concluded when the individual returned safely to the caravan park. Enniskillen RNLI and the other responding agencies were stood down at 11.55pm before the crew returned to station, where the lifeboat was refuelled and made ready again for service.

Speaking after the incidents, Enniskillen RNLI Helms Andy Wilson and Paul Keown thanked all agencies involved, including Carrybridge RNLI, Lough Erne Coastguard, Rescue Helicopter 118 and the PSNI.

“We were pleased to be of assistance on a busy Bank Holiday weekend,” they said.

“As we come into the busy summer season, when more people are making the most of our waterways, we would ask all water users to carry out regular maintenance to their vessels and have a means of calling for assistance if you find yourself in trouble.

“If you see someone or something in trouble on the water, or are in difficulties yourself, dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.”