The lifeboat crew at Clogherhead RNLI rescued a lone kayaker on Saturday (6 March) after he capsized near the rocky headland and was unable to get back on his craft due to the sea conditions.
Luckily a local fishing vessel was nearby and, although unable to offer assistance as the casualty was dangerously close to the rocks, kept watch until help arrived.
The Coast Guard requested the Louth based lifeboat to launch at 1.45pm and directed them a short distance from the lifeboat station to the local headland, where a lone kayaker had capsized and was struggling to get back on their kayak, due to sea conditions.
On arrival at the scene, the all-weather lifeboat was manoeuvred into position by the Coxswain and the kayaker was rescued from the water.
Conditions were a little challenging with an onshore wind, blowing a force four to five. After taking him on board, the lifeboat crew brought him to shore at Port Oriel harbour where they were met by Clogherhead Coast Guard shore-based unit and paramedics.
Commenting on the callout Clogherhead RNLI Deputy Launching Authority Jim Kirk said:
“Thankfully this was a successful callout that ended well. The kayaker was wearing a lifejacket and had all the correct equipment.
“With the fishing vessel crew keeping a close eye on him and his short distance from the lifeboat station, the crew were able to reach him quickly and bring him safely ashore. The nearby rocks presented a challenge in reaching him safety but the lifeboat crew train for all types of rescues.”
