St Agnes RNLI Assists Survey Boat with Engine Failure Off Perranporth

Two Rescued After Lifeboat Launch from Busy Beach

The volunteer crew from St Agnes RNLI launched their lifeboat on the afternoon of Wednesday 6th August after a call from HM Coastguard Falmouth, following reports of a small boat in difficulty near Perranporth.

The crew were paged at 2:45pm and launched just before high tide from a packed beach, heading straight for the area around the Perranporth wave buoy.

Arriving on scene around ten minutes later, the lifeboat located two people aboard a small inflatable vessel that had suffered engine failure. The boat was anchored beyond the surf line and both individuals were found to be safe.

Proper Kit and Quick Call Made All the Difference

RNLI volunteer helm Ed Schwarz said:
“Both casualties had appropriate personal protective equipment and, while a little cold, were unharmed and in good spirits. They had been carrying out important survey work when their engine had failed. Because they had appropriate equipment and knew how to call for help, we were able to locate and assist them with relative ease.”

Back-Up from Newquay Brings Casualty Boat to Shore

After assessing the situation, it was agreed that returning to the beach at Perranporth was too dangerous due to surf conditions. A request for assistance was made to St Agnes RNLI’s flanking station at Newquay, who launched their Atlantic Class lifeboat.

The Newquay crew met with the St Agnes team at sea and took the inflatable under tow, safely bringing it to shore in Newquay.

The St Agnes lifeboat was refuelled, rehoused and ready for service again by 4:25pm.

Know How to Call for Help

The RNLI urges all boat users to make sure they’re equipped with the correct safety gear and know how to call for help. For guidance, visit:
👉 https://rnli.org/safety/choose-your-activity/yacht-sailing-and-motorboating#calling-for-help

📷St Agnes lifeboat is recovered after tasking to vessel with failed engine. - Credit: Katie Knight