Wicklow RNLI Rescues Two People from Capsized Rowing Boat Near Harbour

Thursday 4 June 2026

Wicklow, Co Wicklow - Wicklow RNLI volunteers launched their inshore lifeboat on Wednesday evening (3 June) following reports of two people in the water approximately 200 metres north of Wicklow Harbour.

Volunteer crew returning from the callout. Photo Credit: RNLI/Wicklow

The volunteer crew were paged at 6.42pm after a member of the public reported a capsized rowing boat with two casualties in the water.

As Wednesday is the station’s regular training night, a crew was already assembled at the lifeboat station, enabling the inshore lifeboat to launch just three minutes after the pagers sounded.

Helmed by Alan Goucher, the lifeboat made its way swiftly to the reported location. On arrival, in slightly choppy sea conditions, the volunteer crew found the two casualties in the water holding onto their overturned rowing boat.

The casualties were quickly brought aboard the lifeboat and safely landed ashore beside the local rowing club. Following an assessment, neither casualty required any further medical assistance.

The RNLI crew then returned to the capsized rowing boat, which was by then being attended to by members of the rowing club who had arrived on scene shortly after the lifeboat.

With no further assistance required, the volunteer crew were stood down and returned to station, where the lifeboat was prepared for its next service call.

Speaking after the rescue, Wicklow RNLI Helm Alan Goucher praised the actions of the member of the public who raised the alarm.

“I would like to wish the two casualties well and we are happy with the positive outcome,” he said. “I would also like to commend the member of the public who made the call for help. Their call was vital in this positive outcome.

“I would like to remind anyone going on the water to please wear an appropriate lifejacket or buoyancy aid and to also carry a suitable means of communication. I’d also like to remind people that if they see anyone in trouble on the water to please call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.”