Lone Yachtsman in Trouble: Falmouth Lifeboat Launched to Emergency Call-Out

Helicopter and lifeboat scrambled to assist sailor off Cornish coast

Falmouth’s all-weather lifeboat was launched on Saturday 17th May 2025 to assist a lone yachtsman who reported feeling unwell 17 nautical miles south-east of Pendennis Head.

Volunteer crew respond to mid-morning page

The call came in at 11.54am, prompting the launch of the relief Shannon class lifeboat George and Frances Phelon at 12.15pm. The vessel left Falmouth into moderate seas and a south-easterly force 4 wind.

Once afloat, the crew coordinated with a Coastguard rescue helicopter which had also been tasked to help locate the yacht. The helicopter was first to locate the casualty and passed the vessel’s position to the lifeboat before being stood down.

Lifeboat escorts vessel safely to harbour

The lifeboat reached the scene 50 minutes later and established communications with the sailor, confirming they were able to motor back toward Falmouth with support. The lifeboat escorted the vessel until it was safe to attach an alongside tow within the harbour and guided it into Pendennis Marina.

Her Majesty’s Coastguard released the lifeboat from service at 4.00pm. It returned to station within 10 minutes, was refuelled, and readied for further service.

🔗 Support Falmouth Lifeboat Station