Falmouth Lifeboat Saves Drifting Yacht in Falmouth Harbour

A routine evening Quayside service took a dramatic turn for Falmouth’s inshore lifeboat crew on Sunday, 18th August 2024, when they were called to rescue a yacht drifting perilously close to the docks.

The incident occurred as the crew of the inshore lifeboat, ‘Robina Nixon Chard,’ were returning from a Quayside service at St. Mawes. At approximately 6:44 PM, HM Coastguard contacted the lifeboat to assist an 8-metre yacht that had broken down and was drifting towards the eastern arm of Falmouth docks. Two individuals were on board the stricken vessel, which was at the mercy of the westerly force four winds, despite the calm sea conditions.

Rescue Operation

Without hesitation, the lifeboat crew navigated to the yacht’s location, where they quickly established a tow. The lifeboat then guided the yacht safely to its mooring in Penryn. The rescue operation, though swift and efficient, lasted until 7:16 PM when the Coastguard released the lifeboat from service.

Following the successful tow, the crew returned to the boathouse at 7:30 PM, where the lifeboat was thoroughly washed down and prepared for any further emergencies.

A Nostalgic Thought

In a light-hearted reflection, the Falmouth Lifeboat Station hinted at a nostalgic scene that could have unfolded if the now-retired Solent-class lifeboat, once a mainstay of their fleet, had been present during the rescue. Such a scenario would have been a throwback to the 1980s, evoking memories of the station’s rich history in maritime rescue operations.

Community Support

The Falmouth Lifeboat Station continues to rely on community support to maintain their vital services. Contributions to their JustGiving campaign help ensure that the crew remains equipped and ready for any future emergencies.

For more information or to donate, visit their campaign page at www.justgiving.com/campaign/falmouth-lifeboat-station.