Larne RNLI rescued four kayakers on Monday afternoon (24 June) after they got pushed out to sea by an offshore wind off Browns Bay and started to drift.
The volunteer crew were requested to launch their inshore lifeboat at 2.12pm at the request of Belfast Coastguard.
Helmed by Jack Healy and with crew members Chris Dorman and Jordan McIlhinney, the lifeboat launched immediately and made its way to the scene.
Weather conditions on Northern Ireland’s East Antrim coast at the time were described as overcast, fair visibility and with a southerly offshore wind blowing.
Once on scene, the crew assessed the situation and found all the kayakers were safe and well but that they had drifted quickly in the direction of a shipping lane due to the offshore wind.
All four were brought onboard the lifeboat and transferred safely to Portmuck and into the care of the local coastguard team.
The lifeboat crew then went back to retrieve the kayaks from the water so they wouldn’t present a hazard to other sea users. They were towed to Ballylumford Harbour and returned to their owners.
Speaking following the call-out, Healy said: “The casualties were caught out by the offshore wind today but did the right thing in raising the alarm once they knew they were in difficulty, and we were delighted to help and bring them safely ashore.
“As we approach the summer holidays this weekend, we would remind everyone planning a trip or activity at sea to enjoy them themselves but to go prepared. Check weather and tide times, always wear a lifejacket or suitable personal flotation device, let someone on the shore know where you are going and when you are due back.
“Always carry a means of communication and should you get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.”
