Falmouth Lifeboat Assists Disabled Lugger Off Coast

Falmouth’s all-weather lifeboat was called into action on Wednesday 8th April after a vessel suffered engine failure while on passage along the Cornish coast.

Call-Out After Radio Alert

The volunteer crew’s pagers were activated at 4.17pm following a radio call received by HM Coastguard. The call came from a 15 metre lugger travelling from Falmouth to Charlestown after its engine had broken down and it required assistance.

The vessel, which is 105 years old, was due to be rigged and fitted out at its destination. At the time of the incident it had no mast or sails.

HM Coastguard issued a Pan pan call, but with no response, Falmouth’s Shannon class all-weather lifeboat Decibel Too launched at 4.30pm. Station Coxswain Luke Wills was in command.

📷Credit: Falmouth Lifeboat

Lifeboat Locates Vessel at Anchor

The lifeboat arrived on scene at 5pm and located the lugger at anchor around 3.5 nautical miles east of Zone Point. Conditions were described as excellent, with good visibility, a smooth sea and a force 2 to 3 northerly wind.

After assessing the situation, the crew made the decision to tow the vessel back to Falmouth.

📷Credit: Falmouth Lifeboat

Vessel Safely Returned

The lugger was successfully towed and safely moored alongside at Coastlines. The lifeboat was released from service at 7.10pm before returning to station.

First Service for New Crew Members

This service marked the first in their new roles for newly qualified Mechanic Caden Harris and newly qualified Navigator Jack Williams.

📷Credit: Falmouth Lifeboat