Teens Stranded on Rocks at Millendreath Rescued by Looe RNLI

Four teenagers were rescued by Looe RNLI volunteers after becoming stranded on rocks east of Millendreath beach when they were cut off by the incoming tide on Sunday, 16th March.

First Call-Out of 2025 for Looe Lifeboat Crew

At 5.58pm, RNLI volunteers were paged, marking the first service launch of the year for Looe’s lifeboat crew. Within 12 minutes, the D Class inshore lifeboat Ollie Naismith II was launched from Looe river and headed towards Millendreath, where the teenagers were stuck as the spring tide rapidly rose around them.

With sunset at 6.25pm and fading light making conditions more difficult, the crew quickly located the stranded group on the rocks. A casualty care assessment confirmed none of them were injured, though three had entered the water and were experiencing the effects of cold exposure.

Casualties Taken to Safety

Rather than returning them to the beach, the lifeboat crew brought all four teenagers on board and took them back to Looe Lifeboat Station to warm up. Looe and Polruan Coastguard Rescue teams were also present at the station, where the casualties were reunited with their families.

RNLI Warning About Tide Awareness

Once the lifeboat was washed down and refuelled, the volunteer crew emphasised the importance of checking tide times before heading out.

“This incident is a timely reminder to always check tide times before setting out and to keep an eye on your surroundings. Last night’s high tide was around 7pm and being a spring tide it was higher than usual. Sunset was 6.25pm and with the light beginning to fade, it can be more difficult to see the water rising around you,” said the crew.

They also praised the teenagers for calling for help as soon as they realised they were cut off, saying: “The casualties did the right thing in raising the alarm as soon as they realised they were cut off.”

Looe RNLI continues to urge people to be aware of tidal changes and to call for help immediately if they find themselves in difficulty.