The Galatea: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

On the evening of July 29, 2019, the Penlee RNLI volunteer crew showcased their bravery and expertise by launching the all-weather lifeboat, 'Ivan Ellen', in response to a fishing vessel that had become incapacitated after its propeller got fouled while hauling a seine net in challenging weather conditions. At 9:50 p.m., the lifeboat set out to assist a 55-foot local fishing boat carrying four crew members, drifting dangerously in Mount’s Bay due to strong south-easterly winds. As the vessel struggled to gain control, it drifted and tragically collided with the anchored 'Galatea' south of Penzance, causing the large net to entangle itself in the 'Galatea's propellers. The lifeboat arrived on site at 10:05 p.m., promptly assessing the precarious situation. To avert further accidents, the dedicated crew decided to tow the distressed fishing vessel away from the 'Galatea'. With the seine net still submerged in the turbulent waters, there was a considerable risk that the 'Ivan Ellen's propellers could also get ensnared. Employing large spotlights to navigate around the hazardous net, the lifeboat crew successfully established a tow on the fishing vessel. After carefully cutting away the entangled net, the crew began the slow and challenging tow back to Newlyn, contending with 6-7 south-easterly winds and rough seas at low tide. Ultimately, their efforts led to the safe arrival of the fishing vessel at a berth in the Newlyn Fish Market. For more details, watch the full rescue video here: https://rnli.org/news-and-media/2019/july/30/rnli-penlee-rescue-fishing-vessel-disabled-by-fouled-propeller.

On January 19, 2013, the marine survey vessel 'Galatea' conducted an extensive survey of the wreck of the 'Emsstrom.' This operation follows a recent meeting held in Torbay with stakeholders discussing potential risks associated with the wreck's current position. The 'Emsstrom', now submerged, poses significant navigational hazards as it lies precariously close to the designated Deep Draught Anchorage for Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs). Additionally, its location is troubling as it also disrupts the westbound route for vessels en route to the Deep Sea/North Sea Pilots at Brixham Pilot Station. Furthermore, the wreck is situated near the southerly entry point and waiting area for ships accessing the small commercial port of Teignmouth, alarming local maritime authorities about the urgent need for remediation efforts.