Tributes are being paid to Dublin Bay sailor Charlie McKean, who died during Saturday’s opening race of the 2026 Dublin Bay Sailing Club summer season.
As Afloat reported earlier, the incident occurred in the DBSC Cruisers One fleet on Dublin Bay after the sailor became unwell during racing. A mayday was declared as fellow competitors and safety crews responded.
Mr McKean was a crew member aboard the multiple championship-winning J109 White Mischief, co-skippered by Tim and Richard Goodbody.
In a tribute, his shipmate Stephen Breen described him as “the nicest, funniest, most caring and happy-go-lucky person you’d ever be fortunate enough to meet.”
“His laughter was infectious and we loved his quirky sense of humour,” Breen said. “Charlie was always going out of his way for people and only had good things to say about everyone.”
He added that McKean was “a hugely valued member of the White Mischief crew” and “a trusted friend and sailor by so many crews up and down the country.”
Recalling last season, Breen said that during a regatta in Kinsale, “there was a queue of boats looking for Charlie to sail with them.”
McKean was closely associated with the Royal Irish Yacht Club, where he regularly sailed and spent time with family.
“He absolutely loved sailing out of the club,” Breen said, noting how he would bring his son Leo for breakfast and introduce friends and family to fellow members.
“We are all taking comfort that it happened so fast and that he didn’t suffer,” Breen added. “Charlie died doing what he loved; leading the race on a sunny Saturday afternoon in Dublin Bay.”
Breen also acknowledged those involved in the response. “We also acknowledge the amazing DBSC rescue crew, and a doctor who jumped on board from a RIB at speed to assist with CPR,” he said.
He added that thanks were due to the RNLI and emergency services, as well as the staff and members of the National Yacht Club, who provided a defibrillator and support on arrival.
Further appreciation was extended to the staff and members of the Royal Irish Yacht Club, who helped care for Mr McKean and his crew.
“The whole sailing community have been amazing,” Breen added.
