Lizard Point Rescue: The Lizard RNLI Lifeboat Saves Yacht from Danger

RNLI Lifeboat Crew Saves 38ft Yacht Drifting Toward Rocks

In a tense operation that marked their fourth call in just six days, The Lizard RNLI Lifeboat Station’s crew launched a rescue mission shortly before 4 pm on Saturday, 20th July, following an urgent request from Falmouth Coastguard. The lifeboat RNLB Rose was dispatched to assist a 38ft sailing vessel that had become stranded three nautical miles west of Lizard Point.

The Rescue Mission

The yacht, with four people on board, had become becalmed and was unable to start its engine due to a starter motor fault. With the sea current slowly pushing the vessel towards the perilous rocks surrounding Lizard Point, the situation was becoming increasingly dire.

At 4:09 pm, the RNLB Rose set off and arrived at the scene at 4:24 pm. Upon arrival, Second Coxswain Darren Thirlaway and his team assessed the situation. Fortunately, all four individuals on the yacht were in good health and did not require any medical assistance.

Tow to Safety

Given the lack of wind and other means of propulsion, Darren made the critical decision to tow the vessel to the nearest port, Falmouth. By 4:38 pm, a towline was secured, and the RNLB Rose began the slow journey back to safety.

The operation concluded successfully when the yacht and its grateful crew were safely berthed at Falmouth Marina. After a brief respite, the lifeboat crew departed Falmouth at 8:45 pm and returned to Kilcobben Cove by 9:43 pm.

Ready for the Next Call

The RNLB Rose was promptly rehoused, refuelled, and made ready for any future emergencies by 10:01 pm, ensuring that The Lizard RNLI Lifeboat Station remains prepared for any call of duty.

This latest mission underscores the relentless dedication and bravery of the RNLI crews, who continuously risk their lives to ensure the safety of those at sea.

Photo Credit: The Lizard RNLI & Terry Thirlaway.