RNLI Penlee Responds to Sinking Vessel Off Lamorna

On Thursday, 11th July, at 6:30 am, the RNLI Penlee lifeboat crew was urgently dispatched by Falmouth Coastguards to a motor vessel reported to be taking on water off Lamorna.

The all-weather Severn Class Lifeboat, the Ivan Ellen, under the command of Coxswain Patch Harvey, raced to the scene to find a 19-metre motor vessel rapidly sinking.

Onboard Investigation

Upon arrival, two RNLI volunteers boarded the stricken vessel. They discovered no one was aboard and, despite their efforts, could not prevent the vessel from sinking. At 7:00 am, the situation escalated as Penlee’s B class Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat, the Mollie and Ivor Dent, along with the Penzance Cliff Rescue Team led by Station Officer James Maddern, were also tasked by Falmouth Coastguard to search the surrounding area.

Search and Rescue Efforts

Fishermen in the vicinity reported that two individuals in a dinghy had entered Lamorna harbour. The cliff rescue team subsequently located a rubber dinghy on the rocks with a warm engine, indicating recent use. However, there was no sign of the individuals who may have been aboard.

Recovery of Debris

The Penlee all-weather lifeboat crew meticulously gathered debris from the sinking vessel, including a life raft and flotation rings, before both lifeboats returned to Newlyn to prepare for their next emergency call.

This dramatic early morning rescue highlights the dedication and swift response of the RNLI Penlee volunteers in their ongoing mission to save lives at sea.