Larne RNLI launches twice following reports of possible upturned boats
- Pat Nolan
- 3 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Wednesday 22 July 2026
Larne RNLI's volunteer crews launched twice on Wednesday 22 July following separate reports of what were believed to be upturned boats off the County Antrim coast.
The first call came at 2.32pm when HM Coastguard requested the launch of both Larne RNLI's all-weather lifeboat Machiko Nancy and inshore lifeboat Terry after a member of the public reported seeing what they believed to be an upturned boat approximately 100 metres offshore at Ballygally Head.
The all-weather lifeboat launched with Coxswain Chris Dorman, Mechanic Derek Rea, Navigator Phil Ford-Hutchinson and crew members Scott Leitch and Catherine Lee on board. The inshore lifeboat launched with Helm Willie Evans and crew members Pamela Leitch and Jordan McIlhinney.
Weather conditions at the time were good, with a northerly wind and moderate to rough seas.
As the lifeboat crews arrived on scene, HM Coastguard informed them that a whale carcass had washed up on Ballygally beach. An extensive search of the area was carried out, but nothing of concern was found.
Later that day, at 6.53pm, Larne RNLI's volunteer crew were requested to launch the inshore lifeboat Terry again after HM Coastguard received a report of another suspected upturned boat, this time approximately one mile north of Barrs Point.
With good weather conditions continuing, including a northerly wind and moderate to rough seas, the crew arrived at the reported location and carried out an extensive search of the area.
During the search, HM Coastguard advised the crew that the reporting party had since confirmed the vessel had righted itself before leaving the area. The crew expanded their search and located the only vessel in the vicinity, which the reporting party identified as the boat in question.
After speaking with those on board, the volunteer crew established that everyone was safe and well and that the vessel had not been involved in any incident.
Speaking following the call outs, Larne RNLI Coxswain Chris Dorman said:
"We would like to commend the members of the public who raised the alarm. That is always the right thing to do. Should you see someone in difficulty, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard."
He added:
"As we progress through the summer holidays, we would remind everyone planning a trip or activity at sea to enjoy themselves but to go prepared. Check weather and tide times, always wear a lifejacket or suitable personal flotation device, let someone on shore know where you are going and when you are due back. Always carry a means of communication and, should you get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard."
Larne RNLI Helm Pamela Leitch also praised the public for acting promptly following the second launch.
"We would like to commend the member of the public who raised the alarm. That is always the right thing to do. Should you see someone in difficulty, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard."
