Penlee RNLI Launched After EPIRB Alert off Penlee Point

Penlee RNLI was tasked by Falmouth Coastguard at 1pm on Sunday 8th February 2026 to search waters around one mile east of Penlee Point following a distress alert from an EPIRB.

Lifeboat launched to investigate alert

The Penlee RNLI all weather lifeboat Ivan Ellen, under the command of James Roberts and crewed by six RNLI volunteers, was launched immediately to the initial position of the alert.

Conditions at the time included a southerly wind at force 4, good visibility and a two metre swell. Despite reaching the area quickly, the crew found nothing out of the ordinary.

Wider search carried out

Following the initial checks, Falmouth Coastguard asked the lifeboat to complete two further search patterns. Two fishing vessels joined the search, while two tugs anchored in the bay scanned the surrounding area from their positions.

After around an hour of searching, no sign of anyone in difficulty was found and the lifeboat was stood down. The alert was believed to be an accidental activation, as no further transmissions were received and the source of the beacon remains unknown.

What is an EPIRB?

An emergency position indicating radio beacon, commonly known as an EPIRB, is used on commercial and recreational boats to raise the alarm in serious situations. When activated, it transmits a continuous distress signal on 406 MHz, allowing search and rescue teams to locate vessels and people in need of urgent help.

In this case, no emergency was identified and no assistance was required.

📷Ivan Ellen