Penlee lifeboat tows 55ft yacht into Newlyn after engine failure

Monday evening was winding down when the pagers went off. A 55ft yacht was drifting west of the Lizard, its engine dead, and two Cornish lifeboat crews were about to spend the night bringing it home.

The call from Falmouth

The Penlee volunteer lifeboat crews received a tasking request from Falmouth Coastguard at 19:11 on Monday evening. A 55ft yacht had suffered engine failure west of the Lizard and requested assistance.

The Lizard lifeboat launched first and arrived on scene under the command of Coxswain Andrew Putt. The yacht was not in immediate danger and was already sailing towards Newlyn, so Andrew asked Penlee Lifeboat to launch, knowing the yacht would need a tow once it reached Newlyn Harbour.

Ivan Ellen takes over

Penlee Lifeboat ‘Ivan Ellen’ launched at 19:20, arrived on scene and took over escort duties towards Newlyn. The Lizard Lifeboat returned to station with thanks.

As the yacht neared Low Lee, Penlee lifeboat under the command of Coxswain Patch Harvey and six crew manoeuvred alongside and set up a tow. The yacht was brought through the harbour gaps and safely onto a berth.

Ivan Ellen was then washed down and made ready for its next service.