Falmouth Lifeboat Assists Yacht Drifting Near Zone Point

Mayday Call Sparks Urgent Response

Falmouth Lifeboat volunteers were paged at 9.00am this morning, Saturday 6th September 2025, after Falmouth Coastguard received a Mayday call from a yacht east of Zone Point.

The 35ft vessel had broken down and its anchor was no longer holding, leaving it drifting towards the shore in strong SE 5/6 winds.

Rapid Launch in Challenging Conditions

The Atlantic 85 lifeboat Robina Nixon Chard launched at 9.10am, making best speed through the swell and reaching the yacht within nine minutes.

A workboat from Falmouth was already standing by, but with the yacht now just 40ft from the shore, it was unable to get alongside.

Tow Line Secured as Anchor Breaks

The lifeboat helmsman manoeuvred alongside and, considering the elderly occupant, chose not to transfer them in the conditions. Instead, a tow line was established to bring the yacht into safer waters.

A crew member was transferred to the yacht to help set up the tow. Moments after securing it, the yacht’s anchor line broke.

Safe Return to Port

The lifeboat then towed the yacht back to Falmouth. Once safely moored at Port Pendennis, HM Coastguard released the crew shortly after 10.30am. The lifeboat was made ready for further service soon after.

Photo: RNLI

For more about Falmouth Lifeboat Station or to support their work, visit www.justgiving.com/campaign/falmouth-lifeboat-station.