Donaghadee Lifeboat

Callouts

  • No rest for Saxon’s busy volunteers Aug 3 – Aug 6 6 August, 2017

    FESTIVAL weekend turned into one of the busiest of the year for the volunteers of Donaghadee RNLI. At 5.00pm on Thursday, August 3, the Saxon joined Bangor’s Jessie Hillyard and crew on a rescue mission off the coast at Groomsport after two dinghies, carrying 10 children, were blown offshore in a squall. The lifeboat crews escorted the small boats back to the calm waters of Ballyholme Bay.

  • Speedboat Recovered 24 July, 2017

    THE volunteer crew of the Donaghadee’s RNLI lifeboat launched on Monday evening at the request of the Coastguard after reports that a small speedboat had broken down and drifted onto rocks between Woburn Road and the Drumfad Road, Millisle. Once on scene, the Lifeboat’s smaller inflatable boat was deployed and approached the speeboat, which was being held off the rocks by a member of the Bangor Coastguard Rescue team. It is believed that the occupants had climbed onto the rocks and were assisted by Coastguards.  A line was attached and the speedboat towed back to Donaghadee harbour.

  • Lifeboat assists injured Birdwatcher 17 July, 2017

    Lifeboat assists injured birdwatcher

     

    DONAGHADEE’S lifeboat volunteers came to the rescue of an elderly birdwatcher who dislocated his hip on the Copeland Islands on the morning of July 12.

     

    Around 9.07 am the Ambulance Service requested the assistance of the RNLI’s Saxon to take a paramedic to Lighthouse Island where the casualty, who was in his 70s, was in considerable pain. The crew brought the paramedic ashore on a small inflatable craft and emergency treatment was administered to relieve the man’s discomfort.

     

    A rescue helicopter from Prestwick in Scotland was requested to airlift the casualty to hospital and arrived at the scene around 11.30am. The injured man was flown to Belfast’s City Hospital and the lifeboat returned to station and was ready for its next call by 12.20am.

     

    The Saxon makes ready to go to sea. You can see it in action at Groomsport on Friday

    It was a busy holiday period for the Donaghadee crew. On July 8 the Saxon was launched after a distress call from a 38-foot yacht, with two people onboard, which was taking water eight miles south of the lifeboat station near Skullmartin off the coast at Ballywalter. RNLI volunteers installed additional pumping equipment to keep the vessel afloat while it was towed back to Donaghadee for repairs. On July 2 a speedboat with two people aboard, which had broken down near Ballywalter, was also towed to Donaghadee for repairs.

     

    The Donaghadee Lifeboat will be in action at Groomsport on Friday (July 21) where RNLI lifeguards will hold a lifesaving demonstration at 11.00am and visitors to the Lifeboat Festival in Donaghadee on August 5 will have the opportunity to see inside the £2m Saxon which is equipped with the latest navigation and lifesaving technology. The festival also offers skiff and raft racing and a chance to see inside Donaghadee’s famous lighthouse.

  • Dawn drama for lifeboat crew 20 June, 2017

    DONAGHADEE’s Lifeboat Saxon went to the rescue of a ferry passenger after a medical emergency aboard the Belfast-Liverpool Stena Mersey early on Monday morning.

    The sun was rising as the crew launched at 4.29am following reports that a woman had been taken ill and needed hospital treatment. The ferry was two hours from Belfast but only a few miles offshore from the Royal National Lifeboat Institution station.

    The casualty was lowered from a hull door of the ferry to the deck of the Saxon and an ambulance crew was waiting to take her for treatment by the time the Lifeboat was back in harbour at 5.45am.

    RNLI operations manager Peter Irwin said, “Casualty care forms a major part of the crew’s training and this operation went extremely well in flat calm conditions. We hope the lady makes a swift and full recovery and are glad we were able to help get her to hospital as quickly as possible.”

    It is one of the busiest years on record for Donaghadee RNLI with 16 ‘Shouts’ so far this year. The Lifeboat launched on Saturday after reports of two people in difficulties in the water at Millisle but was stood down after the incident was resolved without the crew’s assistance and on Sunday the volunteers were at sea for an exercise on Father’s Day.

    Donaghadee Lifeboat Saxon makes its way to the Stena Mersey as the sun comes up in the North Channel.

    Casualty care forms a major part of the training regime for the RNLI volunteers.

  • Four shouts in four days (1st – 4th June) 7 June, 2017

    DONAGHADEE’S Royal National Lifeboat Institution volunteers launched four rescue missions in four days and may be heading for one of the busiest years on record.

    Last year the crew of the Saxon undertook 15 ‘Shouts’ and were stood down five times but have clocked up 14 rescue missions already in 2017.

    At lunchtime on June 1 the Lifeboat launched to assist a 28ft yacht on passage from Bangor to the Isle of Man after it suffered engine failure and a crew member was reported to be ill.

    In the early hours of June 3 the Saxon assisted a vessel which had suffered engine failure five miles east of Ballyvester, on passage from Carrickfergus to the Isle of Man. A tow-line was attached and a course was set for Donaghadee harbour where the casualty vessel was brought alongside at the visitors berth 2.25am.

    The following day a motor boat with engine failure was towed in from seven miles out at sea and a sailing yacht with two aboard, which had suffered engine failure and was becalmed on passage from Peel in the Isle of Man to Bangor.

    Operations manager Peter Irwin said, “It has been hard work for the crews at sea and on shore who have to give up work and family time but we will always launch if there is a danger to someone’s life.

    “Always remember to make sure boats and engines are seaworthy before you leave harbour and that all safety and communications equipment is working properly. Always tell somebody when you plan to come back.”

    Ready for action: The crew have responded to four emergency calls in four days.

  • Early start for crew 24 May, 2017

    DONAGHADEE’S lifeboat volunteers had an early start on Wednesday answering a call for help from a racing yacht stranded in the North Channel.

    Fools Gold, with three crew aboard, was making its way from Cork to the west of Scotland for a sailing event when it was rendered unable to manoeuvre by calm seas and engine failure. As night fell the 12 metre vessel called for assistance fearing a power failure could leave it adrift without lights and communications.

    The RNLI’s Saxon launched at 1.15am and reached the yacht’s position, seven miles south of South Rock, at 3.00am. The stricken vessel was towed back to Donaghadee and the lifeboat crew was home for breakfast by 5.00am.

  • Concern for row boat triggers launch 13 May, 2017

    THE Saxon was launched shortly before 3pm on Saturday after concerns were raised about a small rowing boat with one person aboard drifting just to the north of Ballywalter. The Lifeboat proceed at best speed with an estimated time of arrival of 20 minutes. Just as the crew arrived at the position, the Coastguard informed them that the person had made his way back to shore and the Saxon was stood down and returned to station.

  • Crew Find Body In Search For Lost Speedboat Pair 6 May, 2017

    DONAGHADEE’S RNLI Lifeboat Saxon launched at the request of the Coastguard at 10.00pm on Saturday evening as concerns grew over a missing speedboat with two people aboard which had failed to return to Port Logan in Galloway. The Lifeboat was stood down and back on station before 1.00am on Sunday. It launched again at 10.00am on Sunday morning to join a major search and rescue operation involving RNLI Lifeboats from Scotland, the Isle of Man and flanking stations in Bangor and Portaferry. Coastguard shore teams and air sea rescue helicopters were also involved. On Sunday afternoon the Donaghadee crew recovered a body from the water in its designated search area.

     

    Press officer Maurice Neill said, “The coxswain, crew and operations team would like to express their deepest sympathy to the families and friends who have lost loved ones in this tragedy.”

     

    Donaghadee’s volunteer crew members spent 14 hours at sea this weekend in two operations. On Saturday morning the Lifeboat was launched to rescue a small vessel which had broken down eight miles out from the Irish coast on passage from Peel in the Isle of Man to Bangor.

    Donaghadee Lifeboat volunteers were at sea for 14 hours last weekend

  • Lost child triggers storm launch 24 April, 2017

    THE Saxon’s crew were paged by the Coastguard following reports of a missing child along the Seacliff Road in Bangor – during a Force 8 storm. Bangor’s inshore Lifeboat had already launched and was searching the coast in the poor weather conditions. The coxswain and crew in Donaghadee had just slipped moorings at 5.30pm and were preparing for a rough passage to Bangor when they received a call from the Coastguard informing them that the child had been found safe and well. A good outcome in some challenging conditions.

  • Launch Interrupts Funeral Preparations 8 April, 2017

    The crew was preparing to pay their respects at the funeral of former RNLI volunteer Hugh Nelson when they were paged and the Saxon was launched.

    They headed to Millisle in response to a report that three people were stranded on rocks. The small inflatable XP boat, used for working close to the shore, was made ready. But as the Lifeboat arrived on scene the Coastguard reported the casualties had been assisted to shore. The Saxon was stood down and returned to station, just in time for the crew and operations team to attend the funeral. Hugh Nelson, aged 84, was the last member of the crew of the RNLB Sir Samuel Kelly which rescued 33 from the Princess Victoria in 1953.

  • Hoax call risks lives 2 April, 2017

    2 April 2017 – THE crew of the Saxon responded to a request from the Coastguard after a report of a person in the water and a drifting kayak in the vicinity of the Copeland islands. The search was launched at around 5.45pm and was joined by Bangor’s inshore Lifeboat and an Air Sea Rescue helicopter from Prestwick in Scotland. A Coastguard spokesman said it received several calls from a person claiming to be in difficulty.

    However, the alarm was declared to be an ‘elaborate hoax’ following a thorough search of the area.

    Lifeboat press officer Maurice Neill said, “Hoax calls not only endanger the lives of our volunteer lifeboat crews, but they also tie up valuable lifesaving resources which could place those in genuine need of help in worse danger. Callouts of this nature waste the funds of the RNLI, a charity that relies on donations and legacies, as well as the time and money of other agencies involved in search and rescue at sea. On top of this there is a considerable impact on the personal lives of our volunteers, who are called away from work or family commitments to attend incidents of this nature. This has a knock on effect both on employers, who have to manage the absence of a staff member and families, who have their valuable leisure time interrupted.”

    The Saxon speeds to the search area but call was declared a hoax.

  • Early start to the weekend for Saxon’s crew 25 March, 2017

    25 March 2017- Donaghadee lifeboat launched at 7.32am on Saturday morning, in flat calm conditions, at the request of Belfast Coastguard. It followed contact with an aircraft with warning lights flashing, inbound to George Best Airport. As tasked, the Saxon and crew made their way to a rendezvous point. They were stood down following the safe landing of the aircraft and back on station before 8.00pm – just in time for breakfast.

  • First shout of 2017 7 March, 2017

    5th March 2017 – THE crew of Donaghadee lifeboat Saxon launched for the first time this year on Sunday evening after the Coastguard received a report of an incoming aircraft with technical difficulties.
    In cases of such emergencies, available search and rescue teams are deployed and rendezvous at pre-arranged positions in Belfast Lough. Bangor and Larne RNLI were also involved in the operation which was stood down without incident at 9.40pm.

  • Saxon launches in storm conditions 11 November, 2016

    DONAGHADEE’S lifeboat volunteers launched in storm conditions at 11.10pm on Friday Night, November 11, after reports of a vulnerable person possibly in the water at the beach near the Ballywalter road car park in Millisle. The lifeboat made best speed despite force six winds, poor visibility and rough seas. Once on scene, the Coastguard updated the crew that the person had been found and was in the care of the PSNI. The Lifeboat was stood down and was back on station before midnight at 11.45pm.

  • Lifeboat searches for yacht 1 October, 2016

    BELFAST Coastguard requested the launch of the Saxon at 12.43pm on Saturday after reports from a member of the public on the town’s Warren Road, that a yacht seemed to be in difficulty off the Copelands. The volunteer crew searched Donaghadee Sound as far north as Orlock Point and back towards the ‘Perch’. Having spoken to vessels in the area, who reported nothing out of the ordinary, the Lifeboat and crew returned to station and made ready for the next Shout.

  • Saxon to the rescue 17 September, 2016

    DONAGHADEE’S RNLI Lifeboat was launched to assist a 15-foot Dory, with two people on board, after its engine failed approximately a mile north of Ballywalter. At the scene, second coxswain John Ashwood put a crew member aboard to assist with attaching the towline. Once the tow was secure, a course was set for Ballyhalbert, the casualty vessel was brought alongside the end of the harbour and assisted by Coastguards. The Saxon was back on station and ready for service at 4.30pm.

  • Saxon goes to the aid of yacht 31 August, 2016

    A 33ft yacht, with one person aboard, called for help after its engines failed and darkness fell east of Mew Island. RNLI volunteers aboard the Saxon were at the scene within minutes and established a secure tow-line. The vessel was brought too a safe harbour for repairs. The sea conditions were calm.

  • Fishing boat calls for help 29 August, 2016

    THE Saxon and crew were called out on bank holiday Monday to come to the rescue of a small fishing boat with one person aboard. The eight-metre vessel suffered engine failure and began dragging its anchor in choppy conditions near rocks at Burial Island, Ballyhalbert. The boat was towed to Portavogie for repairs by another vessel and the Lifeboat escorted the pair safely to harbour. The Saxon was back on station in Donaghadee and made ready for the next call by 4.00pm.

  • Saxon speeds to the rescue of RIB with five aboard 27 August, 2016

    IT was a fine and calm summer’s evening when the Rigid Inflatable Boat with five aboard set off from Scotland for Bangor in Northern Ireland but the pleasant evening passage could have turned into a nightmare when the engine’s failed in the middle of the North Channel and night began to fall. But an emergency call to Belfast Coastguard soon had the Donaghadee Lifeboat and her RNLI volunteers speeding to the rescue after a launch at 7.07pm. The drifting RIB was quickly located eight miles from the Scottish coast, a tow-line was secured and the helpless boat and crew were in Bangor before last light.

    Our thanks to the RIB crew for the photograph of the tow-in.

    Our thanks to the RIB crew for the photograph of the tow-in.

  • Saxon responds to yacht 25 August, 2016

    THE Saxon and crew were back in action today after a yacht with five people aboard struck rocks at the South Briggs Buoy in the Copeland Sound. At the scene the crew established that no one was injured and the yacht was still seaworthy. The RNLI volunteers and the Lifeboat escorted the vessel to a safe harbour for full inspection of the damage to the hull. Conditions were calm.

  • Three calls in 24 hours for RNLI volunteers 22 August, 2016

    DONAGHADEE’s RNLI Lifeboat Saxon put to sea three times in 24 hours during a busy weekend keeping aircraft passengers and pleasure sailors safe around the north Down coast.

    The first call came at 5.30pm on Friday when an inbound aircraft heading for George Best Airport reported technical problems and the Coastguard requested a launch in keeping with established air emergency procedures. These ensure a swift response from Lifeboats should an aircraft be forced to ditch at sea. The Saxon made its way at top speed of 25 knots to a designated location along the flight path. However the aircraft was able to land without incident and the Lifeboat returned to station. The operation also involved Bangor and Larne RNLI crews.

    On Saturday morning the Donaghadee crew launched around 11.00am after a report that a 20ft yacht had run aground on rocks at Craigbrain, near Ballyferris caravan park. At the scene the crew launched the smaller inflatable lifeboat in difficult conditions, a 1.5 metre swell, but established that no one was aboard the grounded catamaran. Safety advice was given from Coastguard officers on the shore and it was decided to let the incoming tide lift the yacht off the rocks to allow for a safer retrieval by the owner.

    The crew had just returned to the boathouse at 12.30pm when the Coastguard requested another launch. This time a 31ft yacht, with three people aboard, had reported an engine fire east off Burr Point near Ballyhalbert. On the way Lifeboat crew encountered treacherous seas, waves of five metres, making for an uncomfortable passage. Once on scene the crew of the yacht confirmed they heard automatic fire extinguishers firing in the engine room. The lifeboat approached, secured a towline and set course for the difficult passage back to Donaghadee. The stricken yacht was brought alongside and berthed in the harbour where two appliances from the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Services attended as a precaution.

    The Saxon and her crew were back at sea on Sunday morning to conduct a regular training exercise. Deputy coxswain John Ashwood said, ”It has been a quiet summer for the crew so far but this weekend was one of the busiest 24-hour periods we have experienced in quite some time. We are always ready to respond if lives are in danger at sea.”

    Video footage is available on the Donaghadee Lifeboat Facebook page.

    The Royal National Lifeboat Institution’s Saxon and crew speed to the rescue at 25 knots.
  • Stricken yacht rescued 15 July, 2016

    DONAGHADEE lifeboat saved a stricken yacht and one person after it was left helpless in poor weather off the coast of Millisle. The Saxon and her crew of RNLI volunteers sped to the last reported position of the vessel after a launch request from the Coastguard at 9.30pm on Friday night.

    A strong southwesterly wind was blowing, night was falling and the lifeboat crew was forced to conduct a search before locating the yacht two miles offshore. A towline was quickly attached and the vessel was brought to Donaghadee harbour for repairs.

  • Lifeboat responds to man overboard alert 10 July, 2016

    DONAGHADEE’s All Weather Lifeboat Saxon was launched on Sunday evening, July 10, in response to a man overboard alert in Ballyhalbert. It is understood a pleasure sailor fell from his boat and was unable to get back aboard. At around 6.00pm and the Coastguard asked the RNLI volunteers to make their way to the scene in the event of an emergency situation developing. However the casualty was assisted by another vessel and was able to make his way ashore uninjured. The Saxon was stood down and returned to station within the hour.

    Coxswain Philip McNamara said, “We are always happy to launch if there is a chance we can prevent an emergency or save a life at sea. Everyone enjoying the coast this summer should respect the water and wear lifejackets when around deep water.”

  • Saxon responds to alert over drifting boat 1 July, 2016

    DONAGHADEE’S RNLI lifeboat crew launched the All Weather Lifeboat Saxon on Friday evening after reports from members of the public of a 4/5m boat adrift near ‘The Perch’ on the Warren Road. Once on scene, another local boat was attempting to recovery. The Saxon’s crew liaised with the local boat. With the drifting vessel ashore, fading light and a strong ebb tide running it was deemed there was no risk to life. The decision was made to stand down and return to station. Coxswain Philip McNamara said: “A drifting boat, no matter how small, can be a hazard to shipping. We would ask all boat owners to respect the water and ensure all craft are properly secured.”

  • Busy weekend for lifeboat volunteers 7 June, 2016

    DONAGHADEE’S Royal National Lifeboat Institution volunteers had a busy weekend and were called out twice during the Sea Bangor maritime festival.

    On Saturday the Lifeboat Saxon put to sea after a report that a dinghy was adrift eight miles south of the Copeland Islands. The small boat was recovered by another vessel while the RNLI crew conducted a search of the area to ensure there were no casualties in the water. On Sunday the Saxon was launched again after a cabin cruiser lost power close to the Copeland islands. The Saxon’s crew established a tow line and the vessel was brought safely to harbour for repairs. Both operations took place in calm conditions.

    Coxswain, Philip McNamara, said, “If you lose over the side something that floats be sure and inform the Coastguard. It may be a danger to shipping and could prevent an unnecessary search and rescue operation.”

    RNLB Saxon and crew put to sea on a search and rescue mission.
  • RNLI volunteers brave rough seas after distress signal 29 April, 2016

    DONAGHADEE’S Royal National Lifeboat Institution volunteers spent 90 minutes at sea, braving rough weather, after emergency services received what appeared to be a distress call from a vessel in the North Channel.

    On their first ‘Shout’ of 2016 coxswain Philip McNamara and the crew of Saxon conducted a thorough search of the sea area to the north east of the Copeland Islands after a launch request from Belfast Coastguard on Friday evening. (April 29)

    The emergency operation was stood down when no vessel could be located.

    Donaghadee RNLI operations manager, Peter Irwin, said: “A north wind was blowing against a strong tide and sea conditions were pretty unpleasant for the crew. The Saxon was given a thorough shake-up. But the RNLI will always launch the Lifeboat if there is a chance we can save a life at sea.”

    The Saxon’s crew respond to around 30 emergencies every year for the charity that saves lives at sea. Readers can follow the Saxon’s operations as they happen at the Twitter account Donaghadee RNLI or catch up on the details afterwards at the station’s new website www.donaghadeelifeboat.co.uk

    Steady Teddy: Coxswain Philip McNamara and the Lifeboat’s mascot, Saxon, got a thorough shake-up during Friday’s search operation in rough seas east of the Copeland Islands.
  • Fishing boat brought safely to harbour 20 December, 2015

    DONAGHADEE lifeboat volunteers put to sea on Sunday morning after a request for help from a fishing boat which broke down near Port Ramon on the Copeland islands. In fresh sea conditions the crew were able to establish a tow line and bring the 10 metre vessel back to the harbour for repairs. The Saxon was back on station by 1.05pm and made ready for its next operation. The lifeboat has been launched 23 times in 2015.

  • Potential emergency aboard an incoming aircraft 20 December, 2015

    The lifeboat was launched at the request of the Coastguard in response to a potential emergency aboard an incoming aircraft. It was stood down within minutes after the plane landed safely.

  • Dinner time drama for Lifeboat crew 26 November, 2015

    THE lifeboat crew had to drop their knives and forks to respond to a Shout at dinner time on Thursday night.The pager signalled an alert at 5.25pm just as they sat down for dinner. They dropped their knives and forks and sped to help a rigid inflatable boat with engine problems. The boat was in trouble a mile from Mew Island and had deployed its anchor. Once on scene the RIB had to cut free the anchor due to the strong tide running, a towline was attached and a course set for Bangor Harbour. The crew arrived in Bangor at 6.45pm where the RIB was recovered at the slipway. The Lifeboat crew were back on station for 7.15pm – in good time for supper.

  • Crew spends a cold night at sea for Grace Darling’s birthday 23 November, 2015

    DONAGHADEE’S volunteer lifeboat crew spent a night at sea on Monday responding to distress signals.
    “Sea conditions were fair but it was a wet and cold way to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the birth of Grace Darling,” said coxswain Philip McNamara.

    The Saxon was launched after a distress signal was received from a fishing boat then joined a search triggered by reports of distress flares in the Strangford narrows. The lifeboat returned to Donaghadee after four hours in which nothing was found.

    “Thankfully no lives were at risk,” said Philip.

    Grace Darling is famed for the rescue of survivors from the Forfarshire which ran aground on the coast of Northumberland in 1838.

  • Lifeboats launch for air emergency 28 October, 2015

    BANGOR, Donaghadee and Larne lifeboats were launched on Tuesday night as part of a major emergency services operation which also involved police, fire and ambulance crews.

    A British Airways flight from Belfast City Airport to Heathrow, with 108 passengers aboard, was diverted to Belfast International Airport shortly after take-off after the pilot declared an emergency. One passenger ‘heard a bang’ as the plane took off.

    A spokesman for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, the charity which saves lives at sea, said: “The Lifeboat volunteers were on the water within 10 minutes of receiving a request from the Coastguard and proceeded to positions which are part of a practiced air emergency plan. If an aircraft is forced to ditch at sea lives will be saved if the crews can reach the scene swiftly. Thankfully our services were not required and the Lifeboats returned to station within the hour.”

    Alan Whiteside, operations director at Belfast International Airport, said: “Everything went smoothly, our own police and fire service on site here responded, the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, the PSNI, the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service all attended as a routine.But nobody was required to take any other action – the aircraft landed safely thankfully.”

  • Lifeboat volunteers search for stranded dog 29 September, 2015

    RNLI volunteers aboard Donaghadee’s All-Weather Lifeboat, Saxon, launched the £2 million vessel last night (Sep 29) to search for a family’s pet dog which was reported to have been cut off by the tide at Millisle.

    Coxswain Philip McNamara and his crew took the decision to launch after a request from the Coastguard at 9.30pm and were on the water within 10 minutes. When they reached the area the crew launched a smaller inflatable craft, designed for inshore work, and conducted a search of the shoreline in darkness.

    “We could find no trace of the dog and hope that it reached safety,” said Philip.

    “There is always the possibility that someone will enter the water to save a family pet and that means there is a risk of them drowning. The RNLI is here to save lives at sea no matter what the circumstances might be,” he added.

    The launch came just a day after the Donaghadee crew spent eight hours afloat as part of a major search operation for missing kayaker Robert Hanna. The RNLI volunteers patrolled the Co Down coast until 3.00am on Tuesday morning in an effort to locate the man, aged 47, from Carrickfergus. He entered the water at Islandmagee on Monday afternoon.

    At its peak the search operation also involved lifeboats from the Co Antrim and Scottish coasts and rescue helicopters from the Irish Republic. It was called off after 24 hours when no trace of the missing man could be found.

  • Three men in two unsuitable boats 28 September, 2015

    THE Saxon was launched at 4.37pm today after a call from a member of the public who spotted two small boats in potential danger off the coast at Donaghadee.

    Coxswain Philip McNamara and his crew of volunteers found three anglers in a tiny punt and an inflatable craft powered by a small outboard motor. While conditions at the time were calm the little flotilla was in danger of being swamped by the first passing bow wave. The fishermen wisely accepted the advice of the experienced mariners of the RNLI and were escorted safely back to harbour.

    Philip McNamara said: “While this launch was a precautionary measure these were most unsuitable craft and there was a clear threat to the lives of those aboard. I would advise everyone putting to sea to take proper advice about boats, ensure they have adequate safety equipment and are prepared for a change in sea conditions.”

  • Pleasure boat engine problems trigger launch 28 August, 2015

    The lifeboat launched shortly after 5.10pm after a request to the Coastguard from a small pleasure craft experiencing engine problems somewhere south of the Copeland Islands. The Saxon under the command of coxswain Philip McNamara proceeded at full speed and when abeam of Ballyferris Caravan park found the vessel had made it to the shore. Lifeboat then stood down and returned to station.

  • Volunteers respond to drama on the coast 27 August, 2015

    The Lifeboat was launched shortly after 9.00pm after a request from the Coastguard. A vulnerable adult was reported to be in danger of entering the water at Warren Road close to Donaghadee Golf Club. The crew of the Saxon made full speed to the scene and readied the smaller XP craft which is designed for use in shallow water. However the Lifeboat and crew was stood down and returned to station after it was confirmed the person was safely in the care of the emergency services.

  • Lifeboat launched for ferry emergency 13 August, 2015

    A CREW member on a cross-channel ferry was taken aboard the Donaghadee Lifeboat Saxon after a medical emergency in Belfast Lough Thursday night. (August 13.)

    RNLI volunteers assisted as the woman was lowered from the deck of the Stena Lagan on the ship’s stretcher and brought her ashore at Bangor where she was rushed to hospital in an ambulance suffering from abdominal pains.

    The drama unfolded in darkness but sea conditions were calm and winds were light. The lifeboat was back on station shortly after midnight.

    An RNLI spokesman said: “The volunteers would like to wish the Stena crew member a swift and full recovery and were happy to have been of assistance by ensuring she got to hospital as quickly as possible. The charity that saves lives at sea puts Lifeboat crews through training exercises every week for this kind of emergency and this operation was completed without incident.”

  • Fishing boat towed home after breakdown 1 August, 2015

    A small fishing vessel was towed back home to Donaghadee by the lifeboat after it experienced a gearbox failure 11 miles east of the Copeland Islands. The sea conditions were calm and The Saxon was back on station by 11.15am.

  • Kayak in danger of being swept out to sea 31 July, 2015

    The lifeboat was launched at 2.17pm after the Coastguard reported a kayak and one person in difficulties in a strong offshore breeze near Ballyferris Caravan Park south of Millisle. A holidaymaker on a jet ski went to the aid of the canoeist and the Saxon later recovered the kayak. The lifeboat returned to station at 3.00pm.

  • Lifeboat responds to missing aircraft alert 29 July, 2015

    The Donaghadee Lifeboat was launched at 1.20pm today after a request from the Coastguard. Contact had been lost between ground staff and a small light aircraft making its way across the North Channel from Scotland to Ireland. The Saxon and volunteer crew was stood down within the hour after contact was established with the pilot who advised that no assistance was required.

  • Saxon goes to the aid of sinking catamaran 23 July, 2015

    THE Donaghadee Lifeboat Saxon and volunteer crew went to the aid of a sinking catamaran at Ballyhalbert today. The vessel suffered a split hull and was in danger of capsizing when the Coastguard called for the assistance of the RNLI at 5.00pm. The Saxon was on scene within 20 minutes and stood by as the stricken craft, with one person on board, was towed ashore by another boat. Assistance was not required and the Lifeboat returned to station.

  • Overdue jet ski triggers launch 17 July, 2015

    THE Saxon was launched at 10.24pm in response to a request from the Coastguard. A jet ski with two passengers aboard was reported to be overdue arriving in Donaghadee on a pleasure trip from Millisle. The lifeboat was stood down and returned to station shortly after launch when the ski party was confirmed to be safely ashore.

  • Yacht is escorted home after fouled prop 17 July, 2015

    RNLI volunteers aboard Donaghadee’s All-Weather Lifeboat, Saxon, stood by to assist after a call for help from the crew of a yacht this afternoon. (June 17) The 10-metre craft, with a crew of two, reported that it had a fouled propeller and was adrift off the rocks near Portavogie. The Saxon launched at the request of the Coastguard. The yacht’s crew managed to free the propeller without assistance but were escorted into harbour as a precaution.

  • Capsized dinghy and sailor rescued 12 July, 2015

    A dinghy and one casualty were recovered from the water off the coast of Millisle today. The casualty was unharmed and the dinghy was towed to Donaghadee where it was pumped out and brought ashore by the lifeboat volunteers.

  • RNLI crew rescues two kayakers and their dogs 4 July, 2015

    THE volunteer crew of Donaghadee’s Royal National Lifeboat Institution Lifeboat rescued two people and their dogs after the party got into difficulties during a family kayaking trip on Saturday afternoon. (July 4)

    Belfast Coastguard requested an immediate launch after reports an adult and three teenagers were in need of assistance at Burr Point near Ballyhalbert. It is understood they were exhausted and struggling to reach the shore against a strong ebb tide and fresh offshore wind.

    The Saxon was underway at its top speed of 25 knots by 2.36pm and reached the scene in less than half an hour.

    The crew brought two people, two dogs and three kayaks aboard. Portaferry Coastguard team confirmed two other casualties reached shore without assistance and were uninjured. All of the boating party, including the dogs, were wearing buoyancy aids.

    Aboard the Saxon the rescued party, including their pets, were treated for the effects of the cold. The Lifeboat brought them to Portavogie harbour where they were met by family members. The Lifeboat was back on station in Donaghadee by 6.15pm.

    Mother Judith Rose later posted her thanks on social media site Facebook: “I’m feeling very thankful and emotionally drained at the same time. My daughter Chloe and her cousins got into difficulties when caught by the current. Waiting to hear they were safe was the longest wait of my life. Everybody was safe but tired and sore.

    “If ever you see people collecting for the RNLI please give something. They are totally dependent on donations and this is such an essential emergency service. Thank you to everyone involved.”

    RNLI Donaghadee’s Coxswain Philip McNamara said: “This was a potentially dangerous situation and a reminder that conditions at sea can change very quickly for those in small craft. Calling for help at the earliest opportunity is the right thing to do and can make the difference between tragedy and a successful operation for the RNLI. We train every week for rescue operations like this one and are only too glad to be of assistance when it really matters.”

  • RNLI Lifeboat crew rescues stricken vessel 12 June, 2015

    RNLI volunteers aboard Donaghadee’s All-Weather Lifeboat, Saxon, sped to the rescue of a stricken vessel as darkness fell on Friday evening. (June 12) The 10-metre craft, with a crew of one, developed engine trouble on a passage to Westport in Co Mayo and was adrift in the busy sea lanes at the mouth of Belfast Lough.

    The Saxon launched at the request of the Coastguard at 10.15pm and conducted a search in the gathering gloom one mile north of the Copeland Islands until the vessel was located. In light sea conditions a member of the RNLI crew boarded the vessel to assist with repairs and the Lifeboat then escorted it to the safety of Bangor Marina. The Saxon was back on station and stood down shortly after midnight.

    Coxswain Philip McNamara said, “All boat owners are advised to conduct a thorough check of their engines, communications and safety equipment before putting to sea. If you encounter a problem, call for assistance at the earliest opportunity. We are ready to be of service and It is always better to be safe than sorry.”

  • Mystery at sea triggers lifeboat search operation 20 May, 2015

    DONAGHADEE and Bangor lifeboats were both launched yesterday morning (May 19) in a bid to solve a mystery at sea.

    RNLI volunteers conducted a thorough search of Belfast Lough and the North Channel, south west of the Copeland Islands, when a cross channel ferry reported a possible missing passenger after docking.
    The RNLI received a launch request from the Coastguard at 08:40am after the overnight Stena Mersey ferry from Birkenhead arrived in Belfast. It was believed a man from England was unaccounted for as passengers came ashore.

    Donaghadee’s All-Weather lifeboat searched the ferry’s route beyond the Copeland Islands off the County Down coast, while Bangor’s inshore lifeboat crew searched inner Belfast Lough in conditions which included severe squalls. Both lifeboats were stood down at 11.38am after finding nothing unusual.

    Belfast Harbour Police said: “Details have been passed to police in Merseyside who are continuing the investigation together with the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.”

  • Lifeboat crew rescues stricken anglers 6 April, 2015

    THREE men in a 20-foot pleasure craft were rescued by the volunteers of Donaghadee RNLI on Easter Monday (April 6) after their boat experienced mechanical failure north of the Copeland Islands during a holiday fishing trip.

    The all-weather lifeboat Saxon was launched at 7.31pm after a request from the Coastguard, crew established a tow-line and brought the stricken vessel back to Donaghadee harbour before darkness fell. No one was injured during the rescue.

    Lifeboat coxswain Philip McNamara said: “It is the beginning of the holiday season and the RNLI would remind all boat owners to ensure vessels are seaworthy and all safety equipment is operational before they put to sea.”

  • Rescue on the high seas 28 January, 2015

    LIFEBOAT volunteers from Donagahadee RNLI battled huge seas and blizzards today to rescue a member of a working party who was injured on the Copeland Islands. The casualty suffered a minor hand injury when scaffolding collapsed at Mew Island lighthouse at the mouth of Belfast lough. The RNLI operations team described the weather conditions in the area as ‘atrocious’.

    The £2 million all-weather lifeboat launched at 12.22pm and was at sea for around one hour. During the operation crew launched a smaller inflatable craft to bring the casualty from the shore of the exposed island to the waiting lifeboat. An ambulance was waiting at Donaghadee harbour to take the injured man to hospital. Last year Donaghadee’s lifeboat Saxon launched 27 times and saved 22 lives, according to the latest RNLI figures.

  • Lifeboat launched to aid of fishing vessel 21 January, 2015

    TWO Royal National Lifeboat Institution lifeboats and volunteer crews were involved in a rescue operation in the Irish Sea today. (January 21). The all-weather lifeboat at Donaghadee was launched at 6.00am after a distress call from a trawler which lost mechanical power east of Ballyhalbert.

    The lifeboat and its crew of six were quickly on scene and established a secure tow line in slight sea conditions and good visibility. However the all-weather lifeboat at Newcastle was later called to assist with the task of safely bringing the large trawler into harbour at its home port of Ardglass.

    Donaghadee’s lifeboat operations manager Alan Couser said,” the vessel was without power and in danger of becoming a hazard but otherwise this was a routine operation for our volunteers.

    “Newcastle lifeboat assisted us by helping to brake and control the vessel under tow as it entered harbour and the Saxon and her crew were back on station by 11.15am.

    “We are glad to have been of service to our fishing community.”

  • Coastguard search party to the Copeland Islands 30 December, 2014

    The lifeboat was launched to take a Coastguard search party to the Copeland Islands and to conduct a search of the shoreline in the area.

  • Major search operation after reports of a swimmer in difficulty 29 December, 2014

    The lifeboat was launched at the request of the Coastguard and joined a major search operation after reports of a swimmer in difficulty in the Bangor area. The search involved the PSNI and Irish Coastguard helicopters, Bangor lifeboat and a fisheries protection vessel. It was stood down after five hours.

  • Response to a potential emergency aboard an incoming aircraft 16 December, 2014

    The lifeboat was launched at the request of the Coastguard in response to a potential emergency aboard an incoming aircraft. It was stood down within minutes after the plane landed safely

  • Saxon and crew launch twice on Sunday 12 October, 2014

    DONAGHADEE’S RNLI lifeboat volunteers were called upon twice on Sunday in response to emergency calls from the Coastguard.

    Just after 11.00pm the Saxon was launched after a distress call from a 10m motor fishing vessel with two people onboard. It suffered engine failure around three miles north east of Donaghadee. The weather was fair and the stricken vessel was located quickly. A tow line was secured and steady progress made back to port. Both vessels were safely alongside in the harbour shortly after midnight.

    Earlier in the day the Saxon was launched after a member of the public reported a jet-ski in trouble. However the lifeboat was stood down and returned to the harbour around 4.15pm when the situation was reported to be resolved. The jet-ski and passenger were towed ashore by a small boat.

  • Exhausted kayaker rescued by RNLI lifeboat volunteers 9 September, 2014

    A kayak enthusiast who got into difficulties in strong tides close to Donaghadee was rescued by the RNLI lifeboat Saxon after the alert was raised by his family. A spokesman for Donaghadee RNLI said: “He was struggling to get back to shore and could have been swept out to sea but was quickly located by the lifeboat volunteers. He was very tired but otherwise unharmed. The lifeboat brought him back to shore and was stood down after half an hour at 7.34pm.”

  • Stricken yacht taken under tow 27 July, 2014

    A STRICKEN yacht was taken under tow by the lifeboat four miles east of the Copeland Islands. The Saxon was launched after a request from the Coastguard and the crew was quickly able to establish a tow line in calm sea conditions. The yacht and crew were taken to their home port of Carrickfergus before the lifeboat was stood down and returned to Donaghadee.

  • Lifeboat rescues jet ski and holidaymaker 15 July, 2014

    THE lifeboat responded to a launch request from the Coastguard at 4.57pm today after a jet ski and driver went aground on rocks near Millisle. One person was recovered uninjured from the water and the jet ski was towed to shore.

  • Lifeboats locate overdue yacht 5 July, 2014

    Donaghadee and Portpatrick lifeboats responded to a request from the Coastguard at 4.15am this morning after a family became concerned that a yacht, which had left Port Logan in Scotland, was overdue in Bangor. The yacht was located and all aboard found to be safe and well. Conditions were calm making sailing difficult. The lifeboats were stood down at 5.15am.

  • Lifeboat launched to potential aircraft emergency 5 July, 2014

    The lifeboat was launched again at 1.09pm after a request from the Coastguard which had been notified of an incoming aircraft with a potential emergency situation. The aircraft landed safely at George Best Airport and the lifeboat was stood down.

  • Exercise turns into drama in the channel 15 June, 2014

    THE lifeboat crew’s regular Sunday exercise turned into a real drama when the Saxon responded to an emergency call from the Coastguard.

    A kayaker was reported to be in difficulty west of the lighthouse on the Mull of Galloway in Scotland. Both Donaghadee and Portpatrick lifeboats sped to the area while a small angling vessel and its crew assisted. The Portpatrick lifeboat brought the casualty aboard when it reached the scene and both RNLI vessels were stood down.

    The Saxon was also called upon to tow a Rigid Inflatable Boat into harbour when its engine broke down around 10 miles from Donaghadee. Crew then spotted a lifebuoy which they reported to the Coastguard after searching the area as a precaution.

  • Party balloons trigger RNLI rescue operation 31 May, 2014

    A BUNCH of party balloons triggered a Royal National Lifeboat Institution rescue operation at sea.

    Donaghadee’s All-Weather Lifeboat, Saxon, launched around 8.00pm after reports of an object in the water off the coast of the Copeland Islands.

    A witness described what appeared to be people in the water. The charity which saves lives at sea took the decision to launch its £2m lifeboat and at full speed it was at the scene within 15 minutes.

    The crew found a bunch of helium-filled party balloons which had come down in the sea.

    Lifeboat coxswain Philip McNamara said: “While this was a preventative operation, the lifeboat volunteers prefer to attend at an early stage to avoid any risk to life. An object in the water can be a danger to shipping.”

  • Alert proves to be false alarm 15 May, 2014

    The lifeboat was launched at 6.25pm after a passing aircraft reported an emergency signal five miles west of the Copeland Islands. After a 40-minute search of the area the Saxon was stood down and the incident logged as a false alarm.

  • Fishing Vessel Assisted 9 May, 2014

    A FISHING vessel, which developed steering trouble in Belfast Lough, was towed to safety by Donaghadee’s All-Weather Lifeboat Saxon, assisted by Bangor’s inshore lifeboat.

    The Saxon launched at 3.20pm after a request from Belfast Coastguard. At the scene, six miles north-east of Orlock Point, a secure tow-line was established to the stricken trawler which had a crew of six. The vessel was towed to Bangor harbour where the crew of Bangor’s Atlantic class lifeboat, Jessie Hillyard, assisted, safely guiding the trawler to a berth at the Eisenhower pier. The Saxon stood down at 5.40pm.

  • Saxon stands by during air alert 5 May, 2014

    Donaghadee’s All-Weather Lifeboat Saxon was launched at 4.00pm after a request from Belfast Coastguard. An inbound passenger flight reported a potential problem on its approach to George Best City airport. The flight landed safely and the lifeboat was stood down.

    Lifeboat operations manager Alan Couser said: “The Saxon was launched as a precaution and thankfully was not required. The incident is a reminder that the RNLI is there to look to the safety of all those whose lives are at risk not just mariners and holidaymakers.”

  • Lifeboat launched in beach drama 25 April, 2014

    he lifeboat was launched at 3.15pm after a request from the Coastguard and following reports of a person in difficulty in the water at Ballyhalbert Bay. The Saxon made full speed to the area and crew members dressed in dry suits prepared to launch the on-board inflatable. However assistance was not required. The lifeboat was stood down at 4.05pm and returned to the station.

  • Yacht rescued in becalmed sea 18 April, 2014

    THE lifeboat rescued a yacht and crew when they became becalmed in the Irish Sea on Good Friday – April 18, 2014.

    The Royal National Lifeboat Institution responded to a request for assistance from the Coastguard and the All-Weather Lifeboat Saxon was at sea within 10 minutes at 3.47pm.

    At the scene, close to South Rock south of Portavogie, a tow line was established to the 31-foot vessel. It had suffered engine failure and was unable to make headway by sail in the calm conditions. The yacht was towed to Donaghadee in an operation lasting more than two hours. The lifeboat stood down at 6.05pm.

  • Jet-ski rescued from rocks 12 April, 2014

    A member of the public reported a jet-ski in difficulty south of Millisle lagoon and the lifeboat responded to a request for assistance from the coastguard at 19.20hrs. At the scene, the smaller xp boat was deployed with two crew aboard and the jet-ski with one person helped off the rocks. It was towed to the slipway.The lifeboat was stood down at 20.20hrs.

  • Lifeboat in”Supreme” rescue 24 October, 2013

    Portpatrick lifeboat launched last Thursday evening 24th Oct to go to the aid of a 60ft fishing trawler the “Supreme” which had suffered engine failure 7 miles northwest of Portpatrick.

    The vessel was under tow to Bangor Harbour when the Portpatrick Coxswain requested the assistance of Donaghadee lifeboat to assist with the docking.Donaghadee launched shortly after 11pm and was quickly on the scene where they were able to put a line on to the stern of the trawler which acted as a brake and allowed the Supreme to dock safely.The lifeboat returned to Donaghadee just after 12.20am.

  • Lifeboat goes to aid of man stranded on rocks 8 October, 2013

    Donaghadee and Portaferry lifeboats launched today Tuesday 8th to go to the aid of a man fishing off rocks who became stranded by the tide.

    Belfast Coastguard had received a call from a member of the general public just after 10.20am alerting them of the emergency. On arriving on the scene Donaghadee lifeboat found their colleagues from Portaferry inshore lifeboat taking the man off the rocks and returning him safely into Portavogie harbour

  • Becalmed yacht towed in by lifeboat 24 September, 2013

    Donaghadee lifeboat launched at 21.20 last night to go to the aid of a becalmed 48foot yacht the Lazy Life with four people on board, which had broken down 2.5miles south east of Donaghadee harbour. Lifeboat crew were quickly able to get a tow across to the yacht and tow her safely back into harbour just after 22.10pm.

  • Major lifeboat search for overdue vessel 5 September, 2013

    A 18ft Shetland motor vessel with two people on board which was reported overdue by family, caused a large scale sea and helicopter search to be launched last night (Wed) off the County Down coast. The vessel which had left Bangor marina earlier in the day had not returned as expected, Belfast Coastguard instigated a search involving lifeboats from Portpatrick, Donaghadee, Larne and Bangor. A Royal Navy helicopter from Kinross was also tasked to join the search. Donaghadee lifeboat was designated as OSC and a search pattern was initiated. As darkness fell and the vessel was not located the Irish Coastguard helicopter rescue 116 was put on standby.The casualty vessel returned to Bangor marina at 21.03pm safe and well. Donaghadee lifeboat returned to harbour at 22.30pm

  • Lifeboat goes to the aid of yacht on rocks 29 August, 2013

    Donaghadee RNLI launched at 23.13pm last night Wednesday to go to the aid of a yacht aground on rocks. The 26ft yacht with two people on board had gone aground in Chapel Bay off the Copeland Islands.

    On arriving on the scene the lifeboat crew were able to get a tow line across to the stricken yacht and with the tide rising were able to pull the casualty to safety. The lifeboat was then able to tow the yacht and the two occupants safely back into Donaghadee harbour shortly after 1.30am.

    2nd Coxswain John Ashwood said the occupants of the yacht had been unfortunate in that while putting their main sail up to get under way the yacht had dragged its anchor and the tide had taken them onto the rocks. He was pleased that all were safely ashore.

  • Lifeboats tows in powerboat 25 August, 2013

    Donaghadee RNLI launched on Saturday to go to the aid of a 17ft powerboat with four men on board that had run out of fuel off the Copeland Islands. Belfast Coastguard had received a call from the men shortly after 5pm and requested the lifeboat to launch. The vessel was quickly found and 2nd Coxswain John Ashwood made the decision to tow the casualty back to Donaghadee harbour. They returned safely shortly after 5.45pm.

  • Lifeboat has busy weekend 11 August, 2013

    Donaghadee RNLI was called out today Sunday 11th August to go to the aid of a aluminum barge which had broken down with a adult, four children and two dogs on board off Donaghadee Sound. The barge had suffered gear box failure of Foreland Point shortly after 15.15pm.The barge was close in shore when the lifeboat arrived on the scene and the decision was made to launch the XP boat with two crew members on board. They were quickly able to fix a tow rope to the casualty and successfully tow it and the occupants safely into Donaghadee Harbour.

    The Lifeboat was again in action shortly after 5pm when it was requested to launch by Belfast Coastguard to go to a 16ft Dory suffering with engine failure off Millilse.The lifeboat was able to secure a tow across to the occupant on board the vessel and tow it safely back to Donaghadee Harbour.

    Coxswain Phillip McNamara praised the efforts of the crew for the efficient way they had dealt with the callouts especially after a very long  day at  Saturdays lifeboat festival

  • Lifeboat launches to trawler casualty 5 August, 2013

    Donaghadee RNLI launched in the early hours of Monday morning to go to the aid of a sick trawlerman. The trawler New Dawn was 14 miles southeast of Portavogie on the way back to port when the skipper was taken ill. The trawler was unable to get into port because of the state of the tide. A medilink call to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary was made where a doctor suspected kidney stones and recommended the casualty be evacuated from the vessel and be transferred to hospital as soon as possible.

    Belfast Coastguard requested Donaghadee lifeboat to launch at 2.29am. The lifeboat was alongside the New Dawn at 3.10 am and was able to transfer the casualty safely onto the lifeboat. He was then taken into Portavogie to a waiting ambulance for transfer to hospital. The lifeboat returned to Donaghadee just after 5am

  • Lifeboat called out to kayakers in trouble 2 August, 2013

    Donaghadee RNLI were requested to launch last Friday 2nd August at 1.35pm by Bangor Coastguard to go to the aid of two men in kayaks in trouble off Millilse.

    A member of the general public had rang the Coastguard to report the incident. On arriving on the scene second coxswain John Ashwood launched the XP boat with two crew members on board to go to the aid of the men. One of the men was taken ashore in the XP boat while the other was able to make his own way. With the men out of danger the lifeboat returned to Donaghadee shortly after 2.40pm.

  • Lifeboat launches to rescue three on rocks 26 July, 2013

    Donaghadee RNLI launched today Friday at 14.25pm to go to the aid of three persons on board a jet ski aground on rocks off Ballywalter. Belfast Coastguard had requested the lifeboat to launch after reports that a jet ski had broken down with its engine fouled with seaweed.

    The jet ski was aground off Long Rock when the lifeboat arrived on the scene. Coxswain Phillip McNamara launched the XP boat with two crew members on board, who were able to tow the jet ski off the rocks before transferring the three persons on board back to the safety of the lifeboat, they were then taken into Ballywalter harbour. The lifeboat returned to Donaghadee shortly after 4pm.

  • Donaghadee RNLI rescues man off Mew Island 26 June, 2013

    In ideal conditions Donaghadee lifeboat launched last Wednesday afternoon at 3.07 pm to go to the aid of a casualty off the Mew Island.

    Belfast Coastguard had received a call from the owner of the 4 metre boat that he had broken down with starter motor problems. The lifeboat found the boat north of Mew Island where it was taken safely under tow into Donaghadee Harbour.

  • Lifeboat called out to drifting boat 16 June, 2013

    Donaghadee RNLI was requested to launch by Bangor Coastguard last Friday after a member of the public rang the emergency services after spotting a boat drifting of Ballywalter.

    On arriving on the scene the lifeboat were able to confirm that there were no persons on board, and after searching the area returned to Donaghadee harbour just after 15.45pm

  • RNLI called to help yacht aground on rocks 7 May, 2013

    Donaghadee lifeboat was requested to launch at 9.50am this morning by Bangor Coastguard to go to the aid of a yacht aground on rocks.

    The 30ft yacht with two persons on board had gone aground on rocks at the entrance to Donaghadee marina. With the help of another vessel the lifeboat was quickly able to get a tow line to the yacht and pull it off the rocks. The yacht which had sustained some damage to its rudder was able to make its way safely into the marinam

  • Bangor and Donaghadee RNLI in joint rescue 16 April, 2013

    Bangor and Donaghadee RNLI came to the rescue of a fisherman whose boat got into difficulties.The volunteer crews launced at 11.15am in response to a report that a 28ft commercial fishing boat had experienced engine failure.

    The crew quickly located the disabled boat one mile west of the Copeland Islands.
    With the Vessel drifting closer to the Islands and the wind gusting gale force eight,a tow line was passed to the disabled fishing boat.

    The boat was then towed safely into Bangor harbour

  • Donaghadee lifeboat tows in survey boat with engine problems 24 February, 2013

    Donaghadee RNLI was requested to launch at 17.50pm last Sunday evening by Belfast Coastguard to go to the aid of a survey vessel which had suffered engine failure.

    The 12 metre vessel with two people on board had suffered engine failure north east of Skulmartin, Ballywalter. On arriving on the scene the lifeboat quickly got a tow line onto the stricken vessel which was then taken under tow safely to Bangor marina.

    The lifeboat returned to Donaghadee shortly after 8.45pm.