Wedding Interrupted: Fowey’s Volunteer RNLI lifeboat Crew Rescues 3 People and a Dog off Pentewan

On Saturday, 22 June, amidst the joyful sounds of wedding bells ringing in Fowey church, an unexpected call for help set the RNLI lifeboat crew into motion.

As one of their own celebrated a wedding, the pagers went off, signalling an urgent rescue mission.

Broken Down Bayliner off Pentewan

Falmouth coastguard requested the launch of Fowey’s all-weather lifeboat to assist a 16ft Bayliner experiencing electrical issues. The vessel, anchored off Pentewan, had three people and a dog on board. Despite the malfunction, they were not in immediate danger due to the anchorage.

Swift Response Without Disruption

Not all crew members were attending the church service, ensuring that enough volunteers were available to launch the lifeboat without disrupting the wedding festivities. The lifeboat was promptly launched at 1.04 pm, making its way swiftly to the stranded vessel’s location.

Safe Transfer and Tow Back to Fowey

Upon arrival, the lifeboat crew transferred the people and their dog onto the lifeboat. They then set up a tow line for the broken-down Bayliner, guiding it safely back to Fowey. Once at Fowey, the boat was handed over to Fowey Harbour patrol, and the rescued individuals and their dog were transferred safely to a Harbour vessel.

Fowey’s RNLI lifeboat crew once again demonstrated their dedication and swift response, ensuring the safety of those in distress, even amidst personal celebrations.

Photo: The rescued boat being towed to safety by the Fowey RNLI lifeboat – Credit: Fowey RNLI