Multi-Agency Rescue Brings Ferry Passenger to Safety

Kilrush RNLI in West Clare was involved in a near two-hour search and rescue operation on Sunday morning after a person went overboard from a car ferry in the Shannon Estuary.

The volunteer crew were alerted at 9.22am by Valentia Coast Guard and launched their inshore lifeboat to the last known position of the casualty. Operating in moderate conditions with a strong ebb tide, the lifeboat team quickly joined a major multi-agency search.

Rescue 117 helicopter from Waterford was tasked to the scene, alongside Fenit RNLI’s all-weather lifeboat and units from Ballybunion Coast Guard and Ballybunion Sea and Cliff Rescue. Other vessels, including two yachts based in Foynes, the Shannon Pilot boat, and both Shannon Ferries vessels, also assisted. The search area stretched from Aylevarroo Point to Tarbert, with coordinated creeping line search patterns deployed.

Shortly after 11am, Rescue 117 spotted the person in the water about 1.5 nautical miles west of Tarbert Lighthouse on the Kerry shore. The helicopter winchman entered the water, secured the casualty, and Kilrush RNLI brought them safely aboard. The casualty was then winched into the helicopter and taken to University Hospital Limerick for treatment. Once the person was confirmed safe, the wider search operation was stood down.

Kilrush RNLI Helm Charlie Glynn praised the coordinated effort: “This was a large and time-critical search. The casualty was in the water for nearly two hours, so it was a relief to bring them safely to hospital. Seeing so many agencies and local vessels work seamlessly together was remarkable.”

Glynn also urged the public to take precautions on the water: “This incident is a timely reminder of how quickly conditions can change. Always wear a lifejacket, and if you get into difficulty or see someone in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.”