Newcastle RNLI Launched After Jet Skiers Get Into Difficulty in Dundrum Bay
- Robert Stone
- 12 hours ago
- 2 min read
Monday 11 May 2026
Newcastle RNLI launched on Saturday evening (9 May) following reports that a jet ski had got into difficulty in Dundrum’s inner bay.
The volunteer crew launched their inshore lifeboat Cameronian at 4.55pm in response to the incident. Conditions at the time included a fresh northerly Force 4-5 breeze, choppy seas, clear skies and good visibility.
The lifeboat, helmed by Locky Leneghan with crew members Andrew Lynas and Ciaran Leneghan onboard, made its way to the scene before being stood down after confirmation that the two casualties had been safely brought ashore.
The pair had entered the water after becoming unable to remount their jet ski. One of the casualties continuously blew the whistle attached to their lifejacket, successfully attracting the attention of a nearby rowing boat from Dundrum Coastal Rowing Club, whose members were training in the bay at the time.
The rowers recovered both casualties from the water and transported them ashore at Murlough Nature Reserve. Once on land, the casualties were assisted by Newcastle and Kilkeel Coastguard teams along with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service as a precaution.
Speaking after the callout, Newcastle RNLI Helm Locky Leneghan praised the efforts of everyone involved.
“We want to commend the two casualties, one of whom blew the whistle on their lifejacket continuously to alert the crew of a nearby rowing boat from Dundrum Coastal Rowing Club,” he said. “The rowers successfully recovered both casualties from the water and took them to the shore at Murlough Nature Reserve where they were assisted by Newcastle and Kilkeel Coastguard teams, and the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service as a precautionary measure. This was wonderful work by all involved and resulted in a great outcome.”
Mr Leneghan also urged anyone planning a trip to sea to take proper safety precautions.
“We would encourage anyone planning a trip to sea to go prepared, always wear a lifejacket, always carry a means of communication, and always let someone on the shore know where you are going and when you are due back,” he said. “Should you get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.”
