Boat runs out of fuel near Gun’s Island

Boat runs out of fuel near Gun’s Island

25 June 2025

PORTAFERRY RNLI volunteers went to the assistance of a small motorboat which ran out of fuel one mile from Gun’s Island just off Ballyhornan, at the entrance to Strangford Lough, last Friday morning.

The alarm was raised at 9.35am after a 999 call.

The inshore lifeboat, Blue Peter V, launched to assess the situation with helm Paddy Lowry and volunteer crew members Chris Adair, Ollie Rogers and Molly Crowe onboard. 

Conditions at the time were a light southerly breeze, a clear sky with good visibility and a smooth sea.  

When lifeboat crew arrived on scene, the casualty vessel with two people on board, was observed close to rocks. The boat had ped anchor to stop them drifting further towards shore.  

With no other boats in the vicinity to help, the lifeboat crew decided to establish a tow and return the vessel and crew to the safety of Ardglass marina.  

Helm Paddy Lowry said the crew onboard the casualty vessel did the right thing by calling for help as soon as they got into difficulty and by dropping anchor when they drifted close to shore.  

“With good weather forecasted to continue over the next few days we expect the coast to attract more visitors than usual,” said Mr Lowry in the wake of the rescue.

“We encourage everyone to enjoy spending time on and around the water but to always stay aware of the dangers and know what to do in an emergency.”

Paddy continued: “We urge boat owners to make sure their vessel is ready for the water and always check tides and weather before venturing out. 

“Always wear a lifejacket or suitable personal flotation device for your activity and always carry a means of calling for help. If you find yourself unexpectedly in the water, one piece of advice we’re urging people to remember is Float to Live. Tilt your head back, with your ears submerged, relax and try to breathe normally.”

He added: “If you are in trouble or see someone else in difficulty, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”

A total of nine volunteers responded to last Friday morning’s incident. When the crew returned to base the lifeboat was washed, refuelled and made ready for the next call out.

Meanwhile, Portaferry RNLI is holding its open day on Saturday, August 2 at the boat house when there will be an opportunity to meet some of the crew, members get up close to the lifeboat and learn how to stay safe around the water.

Next door, Queen’s University’s Marine Laboratory will be open, while the annual Portaferry Sails and Sounds Festival will be in full swing.