Two call outs on a busy Sunday for Lough Swilly RNLI

Monday 29 September 2025

Sunday 28 September was a busy day for volunteer RNLI lifeboat crew from Lough Swilly lifeboat station, as they responded to two callouts within the space of one hour.

Stock image of Lough Swilly all-weather and inshore lifeboats. Photo Credit: RNLI/Lough Swilly

The first call out came at 1:27 pm when the Malin Head Coast Guard requested the station's crew to launch the all-weather lifeboat following a report that a a small boat had developed mechanical problems just North of Dunree Head.

Upon arrival at the scene, the lifeboat crew made the decision to tow the boat with two persons onboard to the safety of Rathmullan pier.

As the volunteers onboard the all-weather lifeboat were dealing with the incident at Dunree Head, another call came through from Malin Head Coast Guard at 2:38 pm requesting the launch of the station's inshore lifeboat following a report that a member of the public had seen someone in difficulty in the water in the Ladies Bay area.

The inshore lifeboat was quickly launched from Ned's Point and members of the shore crew were also sent to the area.

The person was helped to shore to a waiting ambulance. The crew returned to Ned's Point to refuel and make ready for service.

Joe Joyce from Lough Swilly RNLI paid tribute to the crew today. "This was a particularly busy day for our volunteers, having two shouts so close together and Buncrana was gridlocked with traffic today with the good weather. I would also like to thank the public for their help with the second incident."

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.