Larne RNLI Comes to Aid of Stranded Paddleboarders at Isle of Muck
- Pat Nolan
- Jul 11
- 2 min read
Saturday 11 July 2026
Larne RNLI came to the aid of two paddleboarders on Saturday evening (11 July) after they became stranded on the Isle of Muck, off the Islandmagee coast.
At 5.20pm, while returning to station from an earlier tasking, the volunteer crew of the all-weather lifeboat Machiko Nancy received a further request from HM Coastguard to respond after a concerned member of the public raised the alarm.
The lifeboat launched with Coxswain Martin Agnew, Mechanic Ross Stewart, Navigators Roy McMulland and Chris Dorman, and crew members Shea McFerran and Catherine Lee on board. The crew proceeded to the casualties' last reported location.
Weather conditions at the time were described as good, with a moderate breeze and slight seas.
The two paddleboarders were located on the Isle of Muck. Following an assessment of the situation, Coxswain Martin Agnew determined that the safest and most appropriate course of action was to bring both casualties aboard the lifeboat and return them to the safety of Portmuck Harbour.
Once safely on board, the crew carried out a welfare assessment and confirmed that both paddleboarders were safe and well. They were then transported to Portmuck Harbour and handed into the care of Portmuck Coastguard.
Speaking after the rescue, Coxswain Martin Agnew said: "We would like to wish both paddleboarders well. We would also like to commend the member of the public for raising the alarm – this is always the right thing to do. Should you see someone in difficulty, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard."
The RNLI is reminding paddleboarders that while the activity is a fantastic way to enjoy the coast, conditions can change rapidly, even on calm-looking days. Offshore winds and tidal currents can quickly carry paddleboarders away from shore.
Safety advice includes always wearing a leash and personal flotation device, carrying a means of calling for help on your person, checking weather forecasts and tide times before launching, telling someone where you are going and when you expect to return, and paddling with someone else whenever possible. The charity also advises launching and recovering at lifeguarded beaches between the black and white chequered flags where available.
If you find yourself in difficulty, stay with your board if it is safe to do so and call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.
