Emergency Medical Evacuation: Falmouth Lifeboat Rushes to Assist Passenger on Cruise Ship

In a swift and coordinated effort, the Falmouth Lifeboat crew, along with ambulance paramedics, successfully evacuated a passenger in need of medical assistance from the 300m cruise ship ‘Regal Princess’ yesterday morning. The ‘Regal Princess’ was en route from Southampton to Cobh, County Cork, when the incident occurred.

Early Morning Call to Action

Shortly after 8:00 AM on Monday, 15TH July 2024, the Falmouth Coastguard contacted the Lifeboat Launch Authority, requesting immediate support for a medical evacuation. The ‘Regal Princess’ was set to enter the safe waters of Falmouth Bay, allowing the lifeboat to execute the operation safely.

Lifeboat Launch and Boarding

At 10:30 AM, the all-weather lifeboat ‘Richard Cox Scott’ departed its mooring, reaching the ‘Regal Princess’ by 10:45 AM. Aboard the lifeboat were two ambulance paramedics and two crew members ready to provide immediate assistance. Upon arrival, the paramedics and lifeboat crew boarded the cruise ship to assess and prepare the passenger for transfer.

Safe Transfer and Return

After a thorough assessment, the casualty was safely transferred to the lifeboat. The ‘Richard Cox Scott’ then returned to the lifeboat house where the patient was handed over to a waiting ambulance for transport to the hospital. The lifeboat was subsequently refuelled and prepared for further service by 11:30 AM.

This rapid response highlights the dedication and efficiency of the Falmouth Lifeboat crew and the paramedics involved, ensuring that the passenger received timely medical attention.

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