
2024 will mark the RNLI’s 200th birthday. With you by our side we’ll commemorate our past, celebrate today’s lifesavers and inspire a new generation.
Ever since the RNLI was formed on 4 March 1824, a year hasn’t gone past without outstanding rescues, leaps in lifesaving progress and bravery amid unforgettable storms. Courage, selflessness and innovation have propelled our lifesavers through busy summers, wild winters, wars and pandemics. So, in 2024, there will be many ways to reflect on our remarkable heritage, share your love for the charity today, and help ensure we're ready to save lives for another 200 years.
What’s happening to mark our 200th anniversary?
Our watch spans across our nations so we’ll be taking to the road, coast to coast. Touring heritage exhibitions and roadshows will bring renowned and lesser known (but no less incredible) lifesaving stories to life.
A 200 Voices podcast will celebrate the RNLI family. From lifesavers to those they rescue. From water safety volunteers to fundraisers and supporters like you. Each playing their part in our 200-year-old mission to save every one. Look out for news of these and other events as we get closer to 2024.
Come sail with us
If you’re a sailor or sailing club, you’re invited to get out on the water in 2024 to celebrate 200 years of RNLI lifesaving. All types of boat are welcome, of any vintage and in any location – coastal or inland.
Organise a yacht or dinghy race or a Parade of Sail event, or link up with other clubs. Enjoy a family sailing day and a picnic – it’s entirely up to you. All we ask is that you show your support for lifeboat crews and help raise lifesaving funds.
Tell us your plans and you’ll receive a pack full of handy tips and ideas to get your fundraising off to a flying start. And you’ll be the first to hear about RNLI 200 branded products and other RNLI 200 sailing events near you. See you on the water in 2024!
Join the 200 Club
At the heart of our celebrations are the members of the RNLI 200 Club. Their donations will fund the 200th anniversary activities and help inspire the next generation of RNLI supporters and volunteers. Their place will be cemented in RNLI history. Could you join them?


Preserving our rich heritage through our archive, library and collections means our story can be shared for years to come

