Courtmacsherry Harbour RNLI called to reports of surfers in difficulty in Inchydoney Bay
Wednesday 9 September 2026
Courtmacsherry Harbour RNLI’s all-weather lifeboat, Val Adnams, was launched shortly after 9.15am on Tuesday, 8 September, following a request from the Coast Guard Marine Rescue Co-ordination Centre to reports of surfers in difficulty in Inchydoney Bay.
The lifeboat, under the command of Coxswain Ken Cashman and with a crew of six onboard, proceeded to Inchydoney Bay where a detailed search of the area commenced.
The lifeboat was joined in the search by the Coast Guard Rescue 117 helicopter and the Castlefreke Coast Guard Unit.
The five surfers were subsequently located and it was established that all were safe and well and did not require assistance. The rescue services were then stood down and Val Adnams returned to her station in Courtmacsherry.
The callout marked the first launch for the station’s newest Launch Authority, Stephen de Foubert.
Speaking following the callout, Stephen said: “Great credit is due to all involved in this morning’s callout and search. I would like to thank the crew for responding so quickly to the reported incident.”
The crew onboard Val Adnams were Coxswain Ken Cashman, Mechanic Stuart Russell, Niamh Hurley, Tom Kelly, Tadgh McCarthy and Dara Gannon.
Courtmacsherry Harbour RNLI would remind anyone who believes that someone may be in difficulty in the water to call 112 or 999 and ask for the Coast Guard. Early notification can be crucial in ensuring that the appropriate rescue services can respond as quickly as possible.
