In May 1993 the Padstow Harbour Commissioners approached the RNLI proposing the need for an Inshore lifeboat to cover the River Camel Estuary, which had previously been covered by the Harlyn private rescue service, but was no longer operating any boats. Incidents occurring inside the Doom Bar were being dealt with by other local vessels.
In November 1993 the Committee of Management agreed that a D class inshore lifeboat station be established at Rock, on the northern side of the river, opposite the town of Padstow, for one season's evaluation, and that it would be independent from Padstow all-weather lifeboat station.
1994
D class lifeboat sent to Rock on 4 March, for one season's evaluation as of 26 March.
1995
Rock permanently established as an all year round inshore lifeboat station from 8 April.
New D class lifeboat D489 was placed on service on 27 September
1997
Proposals for the new D class boathouse were approved and works commenced in November 1996 and completed in June 1997. The new boathouse is of single storey construction and provides housing for the lifeboat and launching vehicle.
2005
The new class of lifeboat IB1, D634 Rusper was placed on service Tuesday 1 February. D489 has been withdrawn to ILC.