About NCI St Ives

National Coastwatch

EYES ALONG THE COAST

St.Ives Station

GOLVA BORTHIA

The NCI Station at St Ives is situated high on the extremity of the Island promontory. From here we monitor weather and sea conditions and provide information for mariners, fishermen, walkers and other users of the sea and coast. We work closely with our partners, the RNLI, HM Coastguard, RN Air Sea Rescue, HM Customs and Excise and all the emergency services. At the same time we safeguard the environment by observing coastal and marine life.

Our Story

The St Ives Station was opened in 1999. After only two years we gained the award of Declared Facility Status and are now part of the UK search and rescue service. Over forty fully trained, volunteer watch keepers, from all walks of life, operate the Station during normal working hours, while an emergency team is on standby, 24 hours every day. Watch keepers monitor coastal activity, aided by the use of expensive equipment. Radar, radio and AIS all help in preventing and reacting to any potential emergency.

However, there is no substitution for watchful eyes which can spot a distress flare, an overturned boat, a coastal sports person or holiday maker waving arms to attract attention. The cost of running the St Ives NCI Station is met solely by public donation. Your gift will be appreciated by those in difficulty on the sea or coast.

Please help us, help you in achieving our aim of ensuring sea and coastal safety