Why Did Penlee Lifeboat Race to Kynance Cove? Dog Stranded at Base of Cliff Sparks Urgent Rescue

Easterly winds force 7–8 as Penlee RNLI responds to Saturday morning call-out

A dog stranded at the base of a cliff at Kynance Cove was rescued on Saturday morning, thanks to a coordinated emergency response involving Penlee RNLI and the Mullion Coastguard Rescue Team.

Lifeboat Launched in Rough Conditions

At 11:30am on 5th April 2025, Falmouth Coastguard tasked the Penlee Lifeboat to attend reports of a dog in difficulty at the base of cliffs along the dramatic Lizard coastline.

The Severn Class all-weather lifeboat, Ivan Ellen, was launched under Coxswain Neville Pittman, with six RNLI volunteers aboard. The crew made best speed across the bay in moderate to rough seas, with easterly winds gusting up to force 7–8.

Cliffside Recovery by Y-Boat

On arrival at Kynance Cove, the crew launched the smaller Y-boat from the Ivan Ellen. Helm Will Treneer and crew member Aaron Clayton headed for the cliff base, where Aaron was dropped off to recover the dog.

The dog was safely taken to its relieved owners at a nearby beach and, fortunately, appeared to have no obvious injuries.

Back to Base and Ready for the Next Shout

The Mullion Coastguard Rescue Team also attended the incident. After the successful recovery, the Penlee crew returned to Newlyn, arriving shortly after 2:00pm to wash down and prepare for their next call-out.