Fisherman Washed Into Sea at Trebarwith Strand: “He Had Just Minutes Left”

Port Isaac RNLI Responds to Life-or-Death Callout

A fisherman swept off the rocks by the tide at Trebarwith Strand was rescued in a dramatic lifeboat operation on Wednesday 9th April, with Port Isaac RNLI warning he had only “one to two minutes” left before the outcome could have been very different.

The rescue mission began at 4:14pm when Port Isaac RNLI’s inshore lifeboat The Pride of Port Isaac launched following a direct tasking from Falmouth Coastguard.

Critical Situation Unfolds

Initial reports confirmed the man had been washed into the sea and was at risk of drowning. The lifeboat, helmed by Damien Bolton with crew members Tom and Mark onboard, sped to the scene while coordinating with Falmouth Coastguard.

On arrival, the crew found the fisherman floating on his back with his eyes closed and appearing unresponsive. He was pulled onto the lifeboat and was found to be responsive to voice, but extremely lethargic and suffering from seawater ingestion.

The crew conducted a swift triage and determined he required urgent medical attention.

Air Rescue and Multiagency Response

Rescue helicopter 924 arrived shortly after, with Boscastle Coastguard Team also at the scene, monitoring the lifeboat and searching the area in case there was a second person in the water. After confirming no one else was missing, the RNLI crew executed a high-skill underway transfer to get the helicopter’s paramedic onboard.

The fisherman was then winched into the helicopter to receive further treatment, supported by Rescue 924 and Cornwall Air Ambulance.

Once the casualty was safely airborne, the lifeboat returned to station for debrief and to be made ready for service again.

A “Time-Critical Rescue”

“This was a time-critical rescue,” said Damien Bolton. “We estimate the casualty had no more than one to two minutes before the outcome could have been very different. It’s a stark reminder that even experienced individuals can get into trouble at the coast.

“We urge everyone to check the weather, swell and tides before heading out, and to tell someone where you’re going. If you find yourself in trouble, stay calm, raise your arm and shout for help. And if you see someone in difficulty, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”

The RNLI also encourages beachgoers to choose lifeguarded beaches where possible, and to read local safety signage before venturing out.

Port Isaac RNLI has thanked all those involved in the multiagency rescue and wished the casualty a swift recovery.