Newcastle RNLI comes to the aid of two people after 8.5m boat breaks down
Newcastle RNLI came to the aid of two people yesterday (Tuesday 26th May 2026) after their 8.5m Merry Fisher boat broke down and began to drift towards a shipping channel.
The volunteer lifeboat crew were requested by Belfast Coastguard to launch their inshore Atlantic 85 class lifeboat at 2.49pm and assess the situation where the boat had experienced mechanical failure and was adrift 8 nautical miles south of St John’s Point.
The lifeboat helmed by Shane Rice and with navigator Niall McMurray and crew members Danni Curley and Trez Dennison onboard, launched immediately and made its way to the scene.
On arrival, the crew observed that the two onboard who were both wearing lifejackets, were safe and well.
However, but as the vessel was drifting towards a shipping channel and posing a potential navigational risk, it was decided that the safest course of action was to establish a tow and bring the vessel and its occupants to the nearest safe harbour at Ardglass Marina where it was safely berthed an hour later with the assistance of Kilkeel Coastguard.
Speaking following the call out, Newcastle RNLI Helm Shane Rice said: ‘As we continue to enjoy some hot weather, we encourage anyone planning a trip on the water to go prepared.
“Always wear a lifejacket or suitable personal flotation device, always carry a means of communication such as a fully charged mobile phone and always let someone know where you are going and when you are due back. Should you get into difficulty, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.
“‘If you end up in the water unexpectedly, Float to Live.
“Stay calm and fight any instinct to panic or thrash around. Tilt your head back, with your ears submerged.
“Relax and try to breathe normally. Move your hands and feet to help you stay afloat. It’s fine if your legs sink, we all float differently. Once you’ve regained control of your breathing, call for help or raise your hand or swim to safety if you are able.’
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