Portaferry RNLI Launches Following Man Overboard Alert on Strangford Lough
- Robert Stone
- May 13
- 2 min read
Tuesday 12 May 2026
Volunteer crew from the RNLI station at Portaferry were tasked to an emergency call on Tuesday afternoon (12 May) after reports of a man overboard near Ringhaddy Sound on the western shore of Strangford Lough.
The crew were paged for immediate launch by Belfast Coastguard at 2.24pm following the activation of an emergency beacon in the area.
The inshore lifeboat Blue Peter V launched shortly afterwards with volunteer helm Oliver Rogers and crew members Blair Baillie and Paul Mageean onboard.
Weather conditions at the time were challenging, with a fresh Force 5 north westerly breeze, partially cloudy skies and a moderately choppy sea state.
Once on scene and after receiving an update from the Coastguard, the crew began a search of the surrounding area. Following enquiries with people nearby, it was later established that the beacon had been activated accidentally.
Speaking after the call out, Portaferry RNLI volunteer helm Oliver Rogers highlighted the importance of emergency beacon technology and ensuring devices are properly registered.
“There are several types of emergency beacons available and it is a fantastic piece of equipment to have on any boat,” he said.
“An AIS (automatic identification system) man overboard transmitter is a personal safety device usually worn on a lifejacket. Once activated, it sends a continuous radio signal, which alerts the appropriate local emergency services and calculates a location.”
Mr Rogers also encouraged boat owners to check their emergency equipment ahead of the busy summer season.
“This time of year is a good time for boat owners who carry an emergency beacon on their vessel to check the registration details are up to date and that everyone onboard knows what to do in an emergency,” he said.
The RNLI is also reminding anyone planning activities on or near the water to take weather and tide conditions into account before setting out.
“We urge anyone on or close to the water to take weather and tide times into account before venturing out. Always wear a lifejacket or suitable flotation device for your activity and always carry a means of communication. Should you get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”
