Lough Neagh Rescue launch multi-station response to double yacht rescue

Sunday 7 September 2025

At 4:08pm on Saturday, 7th September, Lough Neagh Rescue volunteer lifeboat crews were paged by Belfast Coastguard to assist two sailing yachts, each with 2 people on board, stranded on a lee shore north of Ballyronan Marina.

LNR volunteers with Milpro vessel at second yacht. Photo Credit: Lough Neagh Rescue

One yacht had gone aground in difficult conditions, while the second, unfortunately, also became a casualty while attempting to help the first yacht.

Recognising the complexity and risk of a Lee shore rescue in deteriorating Force 7 south-easterly winds, Lough Neagh Rescue launched a major multi-station response:

• Lifeboats from Kinnego and Antrim crossed the lough in stormy conditions to locate the stricken vessels.

• A rapid response vehicle and shore team from Ardboe was deployed to Ballyronan marina.

• A specialist Milpro rescue boat was launched at Ballyronan Marina to support operations in the shallow, hazardous waters.

Once on scene, the Antrim lifeboat secured a tow and safely returned the first yacht and its crew to Ballyronan Marina and ensured the safety of those on board.

The second yacht, hard aground in shallow water, required a more complex approach. Ardboe’s Milpro support vessel boat safely took two casualties from the second yacht off and handed them over to LNR shore teams.

The Milpro vessel was then used again to secure a tow line, which was then passed to Kinnego Lifeboat in deeper water, enabling the second stranded yacht to be freed and subsequently returned to the safety of Ballyronan Marina.

A spokeperson from Lough Neagh Rescue said:

"We extend our thanks to the members of Ballyronan Yacht Club for their assistance and to the Belfast Coastguard for their coordination".

"Please join us in recognising the skill, courage, and dedication of our volunteer lifeboat crews from Kinnego, Antrim, and Ardboe, who give their time freely to respond in all conditions, 24/7 – and ensure everyone comes home safe".

"A reminder: Lough Neagh Rescue is a charity. Every launch like this comes at a substantial financial cost, supported entirely by unpaid volunteers and the generosity of the public. If you see us out fundraising, please stop by – your support keeps us on the water and ready to respond when lives are in danger".

All three lifeboats and support assets returned safely to their stations, were refuelled, and prepared for immediate re-tasking.

Remember: If you're in difficulty on or near the water—or if you see someone in trouble—dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.