RNLI Assists Drifting Houseboat During Beyond Paradise Filming

A dramatic rescue involving a drifting houseboat unfolded in the fictional town of Shipton Abbott, as RNLI volunteers launched to assist two people onboard.

The incident forms part of the storyline in the popular BBC One series Beyond Paradise, with filming taking place in Looe, where the town doubles as Shipton Abbott.

Houseboat Drifts Into Danger

In the first episode of series 4, Humphrey Goodman and Martha Goodman wake to find their houseboat, Lily Bond, has slipped its moorings overnight and drifted out into Shipton Abbott bay.

The situation worsens as Martha realises the houseboat is taking on water. At the same time, Humphrey attempts to restart the engine but slips on leaking oil and bangs his head.

With no lifejackets onboard, the pair are forced to act quickly. Martha fires a distress flare, which is spotted by people onshore who contact the coastguards.

📷Images of the Looe RNLI crew with cast members, Kris Marshall and Sally Bretton, and the houseboat rescue are attached for your use, both from BBC / Red Planet Pictures

RNLI Launches to Assist

The coastguards request the immediate launch of the Shipton Abbott lifeboat. RNLI volunteers launch the charity’s Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat to assist alongside the Shipton Abbott Harbour team.

The harbour launch takes Lily Bond under tow, while the RNLI lifeboat provides escort and safety cover.

The houseboat, with Humphrey and Martha still onboard, is brought safely back to Shipton Abbott quayside.

Filming in Looe

The rescue scene was filmed in Looe, where RNLI Looe Lifeboat Station stood in as Shipton Abbott Lifeboat Station.

The episode was broadcast on BBC One for the first time on Friday 27th March 2026.

Volunteer helm Jack was joined by Nathaniel, Alex and Mark as part of the boat crew during filming. Shore crew members Simon and Adam supported the launch and recovery of the Atlantic 85 lifeboat Sheila and Dennis Tongue II.

Looe’s assistant harbour master Dave, alongside Tom, also took part on the harbour launch. Both volunteer as RNLI helms.

Safety Reminder Issued

While the storyline shows the houseboat carrying distress flares, the RNLI has shared a clear piece of safety advice.

They say that serviceable lifejackets should always be available within reach, even when a houseboat is moored.

Humphrey and Martha thank the RNLI and everyone involved after being brought safely back to shore.

📷Images of the Looe RNLI crew with cast members, Kris Marshall and Sally Bretton, and the houseboat rescue are attached for your use, both from BBC / Red Planet Pictures