Portrush RNLI launches to two separate rescues within 20 minutes
- Pat Nolan
- 12 hours ago
- 2 min read
Sunday 19 July 2026
Portrush RNLI's volunteer crews were tasked to two separate emergency callouts within just 20 minutes of each other on Saturday evening, with both the station's All-Weather Lifeboat (ALB) and Inshore Lifeboat (ILB) launched following requests from Belfast Coastguard.
The first launch came at 6.25pm when the ILB was requested to assist a jet ski that had capsized off West Strand, Portrush. The volunteer crew quickly located the casualty, recovered the jet ski and returned it safely to the beach.
While the ILB crew was dealing with that incident, Belfast Coastguard requested the launch of the station's All-Weather Lifeboat at 6.45pm following reports of three people cut off by the tide at Dunseverick. One crew member was transferred from the ILB to the ALB to assist with the rescue, and the ALB launched at 7.03pm.
Weather conditions for both callouts were favourable, with clear skies, excellent visibility and only a slight swell.
The ALB arrived on scene at Dunseverick at 7.30pm. After assessing the situation, the crew decided to deploy the Y-Boat from the lifeboat to enable them to get close to the shoreline. The Y-Boat crew reached the three casualties, who had become stranded by the rising tide, and safely transferred them back to Dunseverick Harbour.
The casualties sustained minor injuries but did not require any further assistance.
Charles Grossie, Portrush RNLI Launch Authority, said:
"Our volunteer crew assured the casualties that they had done the right thing by dialling 999 and asking for the Coastguard. Calling for help early allowed us to respond quickly and ensure their safety. This is exactly the type of incident our crews train for, and we're pleased we were able to bring everyone safely ashore."
"We would always advise anyone planning a trip along the coast to check the tide times and weather forecast before setting out. It's also essential to carry a means of calling for help, such as a fully charged mobile phone, in case of an emergency."
The All-Weather Lifeboat departed the scene at approximately 8.30pm and returned to Portrush Lifeboat Station at 9.20pm, where the volunteer crew refuelled and prepared the lifeboat ready for its next service.