Howth RNLI launched its all-weather lifeboat on Saturday after reports of a kite surfer in difficulty off Portmarnock Beach during Storm Dave.
The volunteer crew launched within ten minutes following multiple 999 calls reporting the surfer being blown offshore in strong winds.
While en route, updated information confirmed the individual had abandoned their kite and was swimming back to shore.
A Coast Guard helicopter and shore team were also tasked to the scene.
Conditions were severe, with gusts reaching 40 knots and seas up to four metres.
By the time the lifeboat arrived, the surfer had reached shore safely and was assisted by Howth Coast Guard personnel before being transferred to an ambulance.
The lifeboat then conducted a search for the abandoned kite due to the potential hazard to other water users.
Following the search, the crew were stood down and returned to station.
Coxswain Ian Sheridan said: “The callers did absolutely the right thing by dialling 999/112 and asking for the Coast Guard. You should never assume that someone else has made the call — every second counts when someone is in difficulty in the water, especially in conditions like these.”
He added: “Thankfully, this was a positive outcome and the kite surfer got safely ashore.”
Over the Easter weekend, the Irish Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland and the RNLI are urging the public to check forecasts and take precautions when visiting coastal areas.
