Portrush RNLI Inshore Lifeboat (ILB) and All-weather Lifeboat (ALB) were launched today (Saturday 1st August) at 3.45 pm to reports of an overturned catamaran at the East Strand.
The RNLI Lifeguards spotted the catamaran and contacted the Portrush lifeboat station to request assistance
The weather was overcast but visibility was good with a westerly force 3 wind and a 1.5 metre slight swell in sea conditions. Portrush RNLI volunteer lifeboat crew arrived on scene first in their inshore lifeboat and got two casualties on board.
They then requested the All-weather lifeboat to be launched to assist with the tow of the catamaran back to Harbour so it would not pose to risk to other vessels. The casualties were then transferred to the all-weather lfieboat and both crews proceeded to right the catamaran which took some time in the sea conditions. Once this was done, the inshore lifeboat towed the vessel back to Portrush Harbour escorted by the all-weather lifeboat. The two catamaran crew were unhurt
Robin Cardwell Portrush RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager said: ‘This has been a busy week for our crew and the Lifeguards, and is a perfect example of the RNLI rescue services working together for a great outcome.’
Photo Credit : RNLI