Easter Monday launch for Dún Laoghaire RNLI to sea swimmer at Forty Foot

Tuesday 7 April 2026

Dún Laoghaire volunteer lifeboat crew responded to a tasking by the Coast Guard at 3:04pm on Bank Holiday Monday. Volunteers quickly assembled at the lifeboat boathouse to reports of a swimmer in difficulty beyond the yellow buoys at Dún Laoghaire's Forty Foot swimming spot.

Dun Laoghaire RNLI's Inshore Lifeboat, Joval launching to aid a sea swimmer. Photo Credit: RNLI/Aaron Daly

The lifeboat was stood down while en route to the location, as the swimmer had been brought safely ashore. The crew of Joval returned to the boathouse next to the East Pier, washed down the lifeboat and made it ready for the next shout.

Dun Laoghaire RNLI Helm Nathan Burke says, 'Yesterday's shout shows the vulnerability of swimmers returning to the water after a break over the colder months. Sunshine and blue skies might tempt swimmers for a dip, but water temperature might still be below 15°C and being unprepared might lead to cold water shock.'

Dun Laoghaire RNLI Lifeboat Press Officer Aoife Ward reminds, 'There's an opportunity for swimmers to hear from Dún Laoghaire RNLI's water safety team on the essentials of sea swimming safely at 8 pm, Wednesday 29 April at the National Yacht Club, Dún Laoghaire.

'Topics covered will include risks, preparation, kit, cold water shock, float to live and calling for help.'

'This is a great way to meet other swimmers and learn how to keep each other safe while swimming.'

'Also returning is the popular free lifejacket clinic which takes place on Saturday, 11 April at the Harbour Plaza, Dún Laoghaire (beside the roundabout) from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm.