RNLI LIFEBOATS
Across the UK and Ireland, a fleet of over 400 lifeboats are waiting for the call to rescue. Powered by our brave volunteers and your support, these lifeboats have saved countless lives across the years. From large all-weather lifeboats to smaller inshore vessels, each has been designed and refined to be highly capable rescue craft.
RNLI lifeboats are divided into two categories: all-weather lifeboats and inshore lifeboats. The different classes of lifeboat within these categories mean we can reach people in all kinds of situations and locations.
The type of lifeboat a station has depends on geographical features, the kind of rescues the station is involved in and the cover provided by neighboring lifeboat stations.
All-weather Lifeboats
All-weather lifeboats (ALBs) are capable of high speed and can be operated safely in all weather conditions. They are inherently self-righting after a capsize and fitted with navigation, location and communication equipment. Big and bright, the sight of one of our all-weather lifeboats on the horizon has given hope to many.
The all-weather fleet currently consists of the Shannon, Severn, Trent, Tamar and Mersey class lifeboats.
Inshore Lifeboats
Inshore lifeboats (ILBs) usually operate closer to shore, in shallower water, and near cliffs, rocks and caves. They are designed to be quick and manoeuvrable, allowing our crews to get as close as possible to those in trouble.
The inshore lifeboat fleet consists of the B and D class lifeboats, as well as the E class lifeboats on the River Thames.
Hovercraft
We also have inshore rescue hovercraft for areas that are inaccessible to conventional RNLI lifeboats such as mud flats and river estuaries. The hovercraft allows us to fly across dangerous terrain, enabling our lifesavers to quickly get to those who need us most.
Hovercraft are on station at Hoylake, Hunstanton, Morecambe, and Southend lifeboat stations.
Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI)
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) operates 238 lifeboat stations across the UK, Ireland, the Isle of Man, and the Channel Islands, providing a "ring of safety" with various lifeboat types (Shannon, Atlantic, D-class) and launch methods (slipway, afloat, carriage) suited to local needs, from busy river stations like Tower on the Thames to remote locations like Aith in Shetland. You can find specific station details and locations via the official RNLI website's "Find Your Nearest" tool or on Wikipedia's list, which categorizes them by region.
How to Find Specific Stations:
RNLI Website: Use the interactive map and search function at rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeboat-stations.
Wikipedia: Check en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_RNLI_stations for comprehensive lists, often broken down by region (e.g., North & East).
Examples of Stations & Locations:
Key Points:
238 Stations: A network covering UK & Ireland coasts.
Diverse Locations: From busy harbours to cliffs, lochs, and rivers.
Varying Equipment: Stations have All-Weather Lifeboats (ALBs) and/or Inshore Lifeboats (ILBs).