Mystery Kayak Found Floating Off Cornwall Coast Sparks Emergency Response

Emergency Services Search for Possible Missing Person at Sea

Emergency services were called into action yesterday morning after a member of the public reported spotting an upturned kayak floating off the coast near Gorran Haven.

Mevagissey Coastguard were paged at 09:09 on Friday 4th April and arrived promptly at the scene. The kayak was located just south of Gorran Haven harbour, close to the cliff edge.

Coastguard and Lifeboat Search Coast and Sea

The Mevagissey team carried out a swift search from the coast path to check for any sign of an occupant. At the same time, Fowey RNLI were requested by Falmouth Coastguard to launch their inshore D class lifeboat to investigate.

The volunteer lifeboat crew located the kayak and noted it was very clean and tidy, raising no immediate signs of distress. A further coastline search was carried out to ensure no one was in danger.

Teams Stood Down After All-Clear

With no reports of missing persons and no indication of recent use on the kayak, Falmouth Coastguard, along with the Mevagissey Coastguard Rescue Team, made the decision to stand the lifeboat down. The Fowey crew returned to their station shortly after.

Public Urged to Alert Coastguard and Plan Ahead

The member of the public who called 999 was praised for doing exactly the right thing by calling 999 and asking for the coastguard.

Authorities are reminding anyone heading out on the water in a kayak to tell someone where you are going and what time you’ll be back to help ensure their safety.