Larne RNLI rescues three people after boat breaks down off coast
- Robert Stone
- Sep 26
- 2 min read
Thursday 25 September 2025
On Thursday afternoon (25 September), volunteers at Larne RNLI lifeboat station responded to a report of a boat in difficulty.
Larne RNLI were requested to launch their inshore D class lifeboat Terry and their Trent class all-weather lifeboat Dr John McSparran at 3.46pm at the request of HM Coastguard after member of the crew onboard the boat raised the alarm.
Weather conditions at the time were fine with a moderate breeze and choppy seas.
The inshore lifeboat helmed by Willie Evans and with Jordan McIlhinney and Shea McFerran onboard and the all-weather lifeboat with Coxswain Chris Dorman, Mechanic Derek Rea and crew members Martin Agnew, Fiona Kirkpatrick, Pamela Leitch and Phil Ford-Ferguson onboard made their way to the boats last reported location.
The casualties were located drifting into shallow waters between Portmuck and Browns Bay. It was established that the three crew members who had been out fishing were safe and well and that the reason for the breakdown was engine failure. After checking that all on board were safe and following an assessment at the scene by the Coxswain, it was established that the necessary and safest course of action was that a tow line be established and the boat taken to the nearest safe harbour at Portmuck. With the assistance of the inshore lifeboat the boat was safely returned to Portmuck Harbour where the casualties were handed into the care of Portmuck Coastguard.
Speaking following the call out, Larne RNLI Coxswain Chris Dorman said: ‘The casualties had the means to contact the Coastguard and did the right thing when they realised that they were in difficulty.
'We would encourage anyone planning a trip to sea to check their vessels and ensure engines are well maintained. When going out, always carry adequate tools and spares and ensure you have enough fuel for your journey. If you do get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.’
