Port Isaac RNLI Crew Rescues Family Cut Off by Tide and Investigates Mystery Object Near Tregardock Beach

In a 48 hour period, the volunteer crew of the Port Isaac RNLI lifeboat, The Pride of Port Isaac, was called into action twice, responding to urgent emergencies that underscored the importance of coastal safety.

Family Rescued from Rising Tide Near Boscastle Harbour

On Saturday, 3rd August, at 5.34 pm, The Pride of Port Isaac was launched in response to an emergency report from Falmouth Coastguard. The report indicated that three individuals were cut off by the tide near the breakwater area of Boscastle Harbour. The crew arrived at the scene to find a woman and two young children stranded on rocks, with the tide rapidly rising.

The lifeboat crew carried out three precise rock landings to rescue the stranded individuals, ensuring their safe transport to the slipway in the harbour, where they were met by the Boscastle Coastguard.

Senior Helm Damien Bolton highlighted the dangers of the coast, stating, “It’s easier than you think to get into trouble in the water. 138 people die by accident at our coast each year. The RNLI urges all coastal visitors to be aware of tide times and to carry a means of communication to ensure they can call for help if needed.”

Investigation of Mysterious Object at Tregardock Beach

Just two days later, on Monday, 5th August, the crew faced a different challenge. At 12.23 pm, the lifeboat was tasked with investigating a report of an unidentified object in the water near Tregardock Beach. The crew conducted a shoreline search but encountered difficulties due to surf conditions, which made approaching the object a challenge.

Polzeath Coastguard teams were also present and managed to identify the object as discarded fishing gear. The lifeboat crew stood by to provide assistance as needed, ensuring the safety of the coastguard teams during the assessment. Once it was confirmed that the object posed no threat, the lifeboat returned to its station.

Lifeboat Helm Ben Spicer commented on the find, “Discarded fishing gear poses significant hazards, not only to vessels by potentially fouling propellers but also to marine wildlife through the risk of entanglement. The RNLI encourages all mariners and coastal visitors to dispose of waste responsibly.”

Lifeboat Ready for the Next Call

After both incidents, the lifeboat was refuelled and readied for service, with the crew remaining on standby, prepared to respond to any future emergencies. The rapid and effective response of the Port Isaac RNLI crew once again highlights the essential role they play in ensuring coastal safety.

Photo: Stock image of Port Isaac D-Class Lifeboat Credit: RNLI