Penlee Lifeboat Assists 20m Tug After Power Failure Near Newlyn

RNLI Penlee was called out by Falmouth Coastguard at 10pm on Saturday 11th October to assist a 20-metre tug that had suffered a complete power failure around nine miles south-southeast of Newlyn, with four people onboard.

Power Failure in Busy Waters

The vessel had lost all power, leaving it without lighting, navigation aids, or its main engine. Adrift in a busy shipping area, it became a navigational hazard to other vessels.

RNLI Penlee’s Ivan Ellen lifeboat launched just seven minutes after the call, under the command of Coxswain Patch Harvey and a crew of six RNLI volunteers. The lifeboat arrived on scene just before 11pm, where a nearby merchant vessel had stood by until their arrival.

A Difficult Tow to Newlyn

With the tug “dead in the water” and posing a risk to other vessels, the safest option was to attempt a tow back to Newlyn Harbour. A tow line was attached at 11pm, and despite the vessel’s size and weight, the Severn Class lifeboat, powered by 2,500hp, managed to tow it at around 4 to 4.5 knots towards Newlyn.

Close to the harbour entrance, the crew set up an alongside tow and guided the vessel safely through the harbour gaps to a berth inside, completing the operation after two and a half hours of towing.

📷Patch Harvey

Praise for the Crew

Coxswain Patch Harvey said:

“Despite the size and weight of the towing vessel that required assistance our Severn Class lifeboat towed it safely and comfortably. My crew did a great job rigging and passing the tow initially and then setting up the alongside tow close to the harbour.”

Returning Ready for the Next Call

Conditions at sea were a south-easterly 3–4 wind, with a 1-metre swell and good visibility. After refuelling and washing down, Ivan Ellen was declared ready for its next service shortly before 2am.

RNLI Penlee continues to provide vital lifesaving cover for Cornwall’s coast, with volunteer crews ready to launch at a moment’s notice.