Larne RNLI’s New Lifeboat Launches on Maiden Rescue Mission

Monday 25 May 2026

Larne RNLI’s new Shannon class all-weather lifeboat Machiko Nancy was launched for the first time this afternoon (25 May) after two crew members aboard a broken-down rigid inflatable boat (RIB) got into difficulty off the County Antrim coast.

Larne RNLI's all-weather lifeboat Machiko Nancy and their inshore lifeboat Terry during todays rescue. Photo Credit: RNLI/Ross Stewart

The volunteer crew launched at 2.48pm following a request from HM Coastguard after one of the casualties reported that their vessel had suffered a mechanical failure.

Coxswain Martin Agnew, Mechanic Derek Rea, Navigator Dave Somerville and crew members Samantha Agnew, Shea McFerran and Gary Hanna made their way to the casualties’ last reported position in good weather conditions, with a southerly breeze and smooth seas.

The stricken RIB was located in the main shipping channel around three-and-a-half nautical miles northeast of Larne, close to Hunters Reef.

After assessing the situation, the crew confirmed that both casualties were safe and wearing the appropriate safety equipment. The breakdown was found to be due to engine failure.

Mechanic Derek Rea boarded the RIB in an attempt to restart the engine, but despite efforts onboard, the vessel could not be restarted. Following a risk assessment at the scene, Coxswain Martin Agnew determined that the safest course of action was to establish a tow and bring the vessel to safety.

The Shannon class lifeboat established a tow line and brought the RIB to the entrance of the Port of Larne, where the station’s inshore D class lifeboat Terry, helmed by Willie Evans with crew members Jordan McIlhinney and Jack Healy onboard, assisted with the final stage of the operation.

The casualty vessel was safely returned to East Antrim Boat Club, where a jump pack was used to successfully restart the RIB’s engine. Following a further assessment by the Coxswain, the crew were able to continue their journey home safely.

Speaking after the callout, Larne RNLI Coxswain Martin Agnew praised the casualties for their preparedness and urged all boat users to take precautions before heading to sea.

“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,” he said.

“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.”