Kilkeel RNLI Assists Vessel Taking on Water Near Carlingford Marina
- Robert Stone
- Jun 2
- 2 min read
Tuesday 2 June 2026
KILKEEL, Co Down - Kilkeel RNLI volunteers came to the aid of two people onboard a small pleasure craft after the vessel began taking on water while approaching Carlingford Marina last week.
The rescue unfolded on Wednesday evening, 27 May, as the station's volunteer crew were carrying out a routine training exercise aboard their recently introduced Shannon class lifeboat when they were diverted to respond to a Mayday call.
The lifeboat, under the command of RNLI Coxswain Afloat Mechanic Andrew Lynas, launched immediately with crew members Gerry Smyth, William Kearney, Chris McConnell, Julie Annett and Andrew Young onboard.
Weather conditions at the time were favourable, with a Force 3 north-easterly wind, smooth seas, clear skies and good visibility.
Arriving on scene at approximately 9.30pm, the crew assessed the situation before escorting the stricken vessel safely to a pontoon within Carlingford Marina. Once alongside, the two occupants disembarked safely.
The lifeboat crew then manoeuvred alongside the vessel and, working in conjunction with colleagues from Greenore Coast Guard, deployed a salvage pump to remove the water from the boat. Following the operation, the vessel was successfully lifted from the water by crane.
Commenting after the incident, Andrew Lynas, RNLI Coxswain Afloat Mechanic at Kilkeel RNLI, praised the efforts of everyone involved.
"We want to wish both people well and commend the lifeboat crew and our colleagues from Greenore Coast Guard who responded brilliantly and professionally to achieve a positive outcome," he said.
"It was great for our crew involved, who have been working endlessly in recent months to prepare the Shannon for service, to put their skills and training into action."
As the summer boating season approaches, Mr Lynas also urged water users to take appropriate safety precautions before heading afloat.
He advised sailors and motor boaters to check weather forecasts, wind conditions and tide times before departure, wear a suitable and correctly fitted lifejacket, carry a reliable means of communication such as a VHF radio or fully charged mobile phone, and ensure someone ashore knows their plans.
He added: "Should you get into difficulty, or see someone else in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard."
