Newcastle RNLI assists lone sailor after vessel has engine problems

Wednesday 11 June 2025

Newcastle RNLI came to the aid of a lone sailor yesterday evening (Tuesday 10 June) after their sailing vessel encountered engine failure upon entry to Ardglass Harbour.

Newcastle RNLI all-weather lifeboat Leonard Kent at sea. Credit: RNLI/Newcastle

The volunteer crew were requested by Belfast Coastguard to launch the all-weather Mersey class lifeboat, Leonard Kent at 6.14pm. Weather conditions at the time were good with a smooth to slight sea state and a Force 2-3 south to south easterly wind.

The lifeboat arrived on scene at 7.30pm where the crew proceeded to assess the situation. Due to the position of the vessel at the entrance of Ardglass Harbour, the decision was made by Coxswain Declan Barry to attach an alongside tow to bring the sailor and vessel the short distance into Ardglass Harbour. Once there, Portaferry Coastguard provided shore assistance to moor the vessel safely alongside. The sailor was in good spirits and was thankful of assistance. The lifeboat left Ardglass Harbour at 8.05pm arriving safely at Newcastle RNLI station at 9.05pm where the lifeboat was made ready for service again.

Speaking following the call out, Newcastle RNLI Coxswain Declan Barry said: ‘Conditions were perfect yesterday evening. We observed the sailor to be experienced and wearing the appropriate safety equipment. They had a means of contacting the Coastguard for assistance, in this case a VHF radio and that too enabled them to keep themself safe pending our arrival. Once on scene, the crew of the lifeboat set about prepping the tow and within a few minutes we were safely underway into Ardglass Harbour where the vessel was tied up and passed over to the Coastguard team.

‘As we approach the summer months, we encourage anyone planning a trip on or near water to go prepared. Check weather and tide times, let someone know where you are going and when you are due back and carry a means of communication. Should you get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.’