Larne RNLI rescues three people onboard small fishing boat that breaks down

Monday 29 December 2025

On Monday afternoon (29 December), Larne RNLI came to the aid of three crew members onboard a broken-down fishing boat.

Larne's all-weather and inshore lifeboats. Photo Credit: RNLI/Jason Bain

The volunteer crew were requested to launch their all-weather lifeboat Dr John McSparran at 12.03pm at the request of HM Coastguard after a member of the crew onboard the boat reported that they had broken down and were in danger of being pushed against the rocks at the Maidens Lighthouse. Coxswain Jack Healy, Mechanic Derek Rea, Navigator Willie Evans and crew members Chris Dorman, Barry Kirkpatrick and Gary Hanna made their way to the casualties' last reported location. Due to initial nature of the call the crew had the salvage pump and the XP-class lifeboat ready to launch along with 2 crew members kitted in dry suits.

Weather conditions at the time were described as good with an easterly breeze and smooth seas.

The casualties were located approximately eight nautical miles northeast of Larne in shallow seas close to the West Maiden Lighthouse. Thankfully a passing fishing vessel was already on scene to assist and were holding the casualty boat off the rocks.

Once on location, the Coxswain assessed the situation. It was established that all crew members were safe 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 the safety of Ballylumford harbour.

The all-weather lifeboat established the tow line, and the boat was taken to the entrance of the Port of Larne where the tow line was passed to the inshore lifeboat. With the assistance of the inshore D class lifeboat Terry helmed by Scott Leitch, with Shea McFerran, and Phil Ford-Hutchinson on board the boat was safely returned to Ballylumford harbour.

Speaking following the call out, Larne RNLI Coxswain, Jack Healy said, ‘We would like to wish the crew well. The casualties were wearing the correct safety equipment and had the means to contact the Coastguard. They did the right thing when they realised that they had broken down.’ ‘We would also like to pass on our thanks to the passing fishing vessel for their assistance today.’ '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.’