Enniskillen RNLI assists two people after boat runs aground in thick fog on Lower Lough Erne
Monday 9 November 2026
Enniskillen RNLI’s inshore lifeboat, John and Jean Lewis, came to the assistance of two people after their boat ran aground in thick fog on Lower Lough Erne on Sunday afternoon (8 November).
Belfast Coastguard requested the launch of Enniskillen RNLI’s volunteer crew at approximately 4pm following reports that a vessel had run aground close to marker 49A on Lower Lough Erne.
With visibility severely restricted by dense fog and little to no wind, conditions on the lough proved extremely challenging for the volunteer crew as they made their way to the reported location.
Proceeding with caution, the lifeboat crew searched the area, calling out in an effort to locate the vessel. Their search was aided when the casualty vessel sounded its horn, allowing the crew to identify its exact position.
Once alongside, the lifeboat crew assessed the two people on board and were pleased to find them safe and well.
A crew member then went aboard the casualty vessel to assist with the recovery. Having assessed the situation, the lifeboat helm determined that the safest course of action was to tow the vessel into deeper water.
With the assistance of the Enniskillen RNLI crew member on board, the casualty vessel was safely navigated, following the lifeboat’s navigation lights, to a nearby jetty.
Speaking following the call-out, Stephen Ingram, Volunteer Lifeboat Helm at Enniskillen RNLI, said:
“The weather conditions were extremely challenging, with the fog sweeping in so quickly, and we were pleased to have provided assistance under such difficult circumstances.
“We would advise all boat users, before setting out on your journey, to please plan your route ahead using the relevant charts for the area, making sure to check the navigational marks on the water against those shown on your chart.
“Have a means of calling for assistance if you find yourself in trouble and have lifejackets for all on board.
“If you see someone or something in trouble on the water, or are in difficulties yourself, the number to dial is 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.”
