Kayakers rescued by Largs RNLI
Largs RNLI lifeboat was launched on Monday August 18 2025 to assist two kayakers in difficulty.
Monday night dinner was interrupted for the volunteer crew of Largs lifeboat when pagers sounded shortly after 6pm. HM Coastguard requested the immediate launch of the lifeboat to assist two people in difficulty near Largs Yacht Haven.
The Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat, based at Largs lifeboat station, was quickly launched and made best speed to the reported location. Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 199, based at Prestwick, was also tasked to the incident.
The lifeboat was able to quickly locate the kayak and found the two people on board were exhausted from battling against offshore winds while trying to get to shore. They were brought on board the lifeboat and were taken into Largs Yacht Haven where they were handed over into the care of the local Coastguard Rescue Team.
The lifeboat then returned to the lifeboat station where it was cleaned, refuelled and made ready for service.
Hugh Douglas, Launch Authority at Largs RNLI lifeboat station said; ‘Offshore winds can be extremely dangerous, quickly blowing inflatables, kayaks and paddleboards out to sea. Always check the weather forecast and tide times before heading out.
‘Wear a lifejacket, carry a means of calling for help such as a mobile phone in a waterproof case and let someone know your plans before you set off.
‘In a coastal, beach or cliff emergency you should always dial 999 and ask for the coastguard.’
Notes to editors
RNLI media contacts
Claire McRae, Lifeboat Press Officer, 07738681546, [email protected]
Brian Rankin, Lifeboat Press Officer, 07810862468, [email protected]
Natasha Bennett, RNLI Regional Media Officer for Scotland, 07826 900639, [email protected]
Martin Macnamara, RNLI Regional Media Manager for Scotland, 07920 365929, [email protected]
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The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.
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