Busy Period for Wicklow RNLI as Volunteers Attend Beach and Fishing Vessel Callouts
- Pat Nolan
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
Tuesday 26 May 2026
Volunteer crews from RNLI Wicklow station responded to two separate incidents over recent days, including reports of swimmers in difficulty at Silver Strand Beach and a disabled fishing vessel off the Wicklow coast.
Wicklow RNLI launched both its all-weather and inshore lifeboats on Sunday, 24 May, following reports of four people in difficulty in the water at Silver Strand Beach.
The all-weather lifeboat RNLB Bridie O’Shea and the inshore lifeboat Dennis Audrey launched shortly before midday and proceeded at best speed to the scene in calm seas and good weather conditions.
Upon arrival, Dublin-based Coast Guard helicopter Rescue 116 was already on scene. The inshore lifeboat, under the command of Helm Alan Goucher, made its way to the beach to gather information, while Coxswain Nicky Keogh aboard the all-weather lifeboat coordinated a search for the reported casualties.
It was quickly established that all four individuals had managed to return safely to shore and did not require medical attention or further assistance. Following confirmation that all persons were safe, the Coast Guard stood down all responding assets, which subsequently returned to station.
Speaking after the incident, Wicklow Lifeboat Coxswain Nicky Keogh praised the rapid response of the volunteer crew.
“This was an incredibly quick response by the volunteers here at Wicklow RNLI. We were happy to hear that everyone was safe and well,” he said.
“We would like to remind people if they see anyone in trouble in the water to please dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.”
In a separate callout on Tuesday morning, 26 May, Wicklow RNLI volunteers assisted three fishermen after their vessel suffered mechanical failure approximately 10 miles northeast of Wicklow Harbour.
The all-weather lifeboat RNLB Bridie O’Shea launched at 8.20am under the command of Coxswain Nicky Keogh and located the casualty vessel 35 minutes later.
Conditions at the scene were favourable, with light easterly winds of Force 1–2, calm seas and good visibility.
With the vessel disabled and located near the Codling Bank and busy shipping lanes, and with no other vessels in the vicinity available to assist, Coxswain Keogh determined that the safest option was to establish a tow back to harbour.
Due to the prevailing ebb tide, Wicklow Harbour was deemed the safest destination. A towline was successfully established, and the casualty vessel was brought safely alongside in Wicklow at approximately 10.30am.
Launch Authority Mick Nolan commended the swift actions of the volunteer crew and highlighted the importance of carrying suitable communications equipment while at sea.
“This was a quick response by our volunteer crew with their training and equipment providing a successful outcome for all,” he said.
“I’d like to remind anyone going on the water in this good weather to have a suitable means of calling for assistance. If you see anyone in trouble on the water, please call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.”
