Fowey Lifeboat’s First Shout of the Year: Dramatic Call to Help Trapped Canoeist

Routine Training Interrupted by Emergency

Fowey lifeboat volunteers were called into action on Sunday, 19th January, marking their first rescue of the year. The crew had just finished their regular Sunday morning training session at 12pm when a canoeist approached them under the davit, requesting urgent assistance for a fellow canoeist in trouble.

The incident involved a canoeist trapped between a tug and a tug barge west of Penmarlam, near Jetty 5 and 6. With a strong ebb tide running, the situation was considered potentially hazardous.

Quick Response to a Dangerous Situation

The Launch Authority decided to relaunch the D class lifeboat immediately, notifying Falmouth Coastguard at 12.03pm that they were self-launching to the scene. The lifeboat crew arrived at the location at 12.10pm, but by then, the trapped canoeist had freed herself and reached the nearby beach safely.

Safety Checked and Advice Given

The lifeboat crew proceeded to the canoeist’s position to ensure her safety. After confirming that she was unharmed, the crew discovered she was part of a group of canoeists from Golant and would be returning there. Before leaving the scene, they provided safety advice.

Although the situation resolved itself quickly, the swift action of Fowey lifeboat volunteers highlights their dedication to ensuring safety on the water.

Photo: Library shot of Fowey’s D class being launched – Credit: Fowey RNLI