Kinsale RNLI Rescues Swimmer, Tows Boat in Quick Succession

Kinsale RNLI responded to two separate incidents within the space of 45 minutes on Thursday, assisting a total of nine people.

The first call came at 12.16pm when the Irish Coast Guard requested the launch of Kinsale’s inshore lifeboat following reports of a person in the water near the popular Scilly Walkway. The lifeboat, helmed by Nick Searls with crew members Jim Grennan, Jon Green, and Karl Dempsey, launched promptly and arrived at the scene.

A person had entered the water from a small row boat while another individual remained onboard. The crew found that the swimmer was unable to get out of the water without help. The lifeboat crew rescued the individual, brought them onboard, and carried out a casualty care assessment. Once confirmed to be uninjured, the person was transferred back to their boat, where they changed into dry clothing.

Shortly after returning to the station, the crew received a second call at 12.57pm. Helm Nick Searls, joined by John Walley, Jon Green, and Karl Dempsey, launched again to assist an 18ft boat with seven people onboard experiencing difficulty at the mouth of Kinsale Harbour.

The lifeboat crew found all occupants safe, but the vessel was unable to make progress. The decision was made to tow the boat to the nearest safe port at Castlepark Marina.

Following the rescues, Kinsale RNLI crew member John Walley issued a safety reminder ahead of the busy August Bank Holiday weekend and the Kinsale Regatta. He advised people heading to sea to wear a properly fitted lifejacket or flotation device, dress appropriately for the weather, and pay attention to local safety information.

He also urged the public to call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard if they see someone in trouble in the water.