Looe RNLI Launches Lifeboat After Reports of Overturned Vessel

Last Thursday, 22nd January 2026, volunteer crews from Looe RNLI were launched following reports of a possible overturned vessel to the south of Millendreath.

Reports Prompt Lifeboat Launch

After multiple 999 calls were made, the Falmouth Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre contacted the duty launch authority at Looe with a request to investigate. Crew pagers were activated at 10.50am, and around ten minutes later the charity’s Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat, Sheila and Dennis Tongue II, was launched by volunteer shore crew.

This marked the first shout of 2026 for the Looe volunteer crews.

Conditions at Sea

After leaving the river, the lifeboat crew negotiated choppy seas on the bar at the river estuary before heading east towards Millendreath. Conditions included a moderate swell, influenced by easterly force 5 winds.

Drifting Pontoon Located

On arrival at the scene, the crew located a drifting jet ski pontoon with debris attached. It is believed the pontoon may have washed off Millendreath beach during the previous high tide. A search of the surrounding area was carried out to confirm there was nothing else present.

Following discussions between the helm and Falmouth Coastguard MRCC, it was agreed that the pontoon should be towed back to the safe haven of Looe harbour. This action removed a potential navigation hazard for other vessels and helped prevent further emergency calls to the coastguard.

The lifeboat then returned safely to station after completing the task.

📷A stock image of the Atlantic 85 leaving Looe in rough seas