At 01:26 Falmouth Coastguard requested that Falmouth Inshore Lifeboat be launched to assist the French Yacht Debonnaire, which had requested assistance in entering Falmouth Harbour. The yacht with six persons onboard had been on passage from the Isles of Scilly to L'Aber Wrac'h but had diverted to Falmouth due to the adverse weather conditions.

The Inshore Lifeboat launched from her slipway at 01:32 and headed out past the docks towards the Governor Buoy. At 01:35 the yacht was sighted close to the East Narrows Buoy and having assessed the situation it was decided to place one of the lifeboat crew onboard the yacht to act as a local pilot.

At 01:55 as the yacht approached the Visitors Yacht Haven off North Quay, its engine failed and the Inshore Lifeboat had to quickly take the yacht in tow to prevent it and other vessels being damaged, the yacht being safely moored alongside at 02:02.

The Inshore Lifeboat was back on its slipway by 02:14 where it was refuelled, rehoused and was ready for service by 02:29.

The prevailing weather conditions had taken the yachts crew by surprise and with a number of those onboard suffering seasickness, it was forced to run for shelter. Having no charts onboard for Falmouth Harbour they had wisely requested assistance to enter the harbour.

An Inshore Lifeboat Service

 

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