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Coastal lifeboat preferred supplier revealed

The nature of the RNLI’s lifesaving is changing; to support this, a new Coastal lifeboat (CLB) is being introduced into the fleet to enhance the charity’s lifesaving capabilities.

Digital mock-up of an RNLI coastal lifeboat.

Photo: RNLI

It aims to:

  • Deliver a modern, fit for purpose lifeboat from an existing, proven design

  • Meet the evolving demands of search and rescue

  • Ensure our lifeboat crew are equipped with the best tools and systems to respond effectively and safely in coastal environments.

The first stage of the procurement process identified three suppliers to progress to evaluations: Rafnar, Viking and Zodiac.

Evaluations of the three trial boats brought together more than 50 volunteers and staff from both inshore and all-weather lifeboat backgrounds, many of whom had also been involved in the volunteer user group throughout the procurement process.

Crew members involved were able to provide practical, real-world evaluation of the vessels. In addition, the project team gathered information on whole body vibration, noise and ergonomics. These were at the forefront of decision making when it came to selection of the CLB.

Decision

The preferred supplier for the CLB is Zodiac and the preferred boat is their Hurricane ZH 1129. It scored highly across key criteria such as technical evaluation, industrial offer, commercial position and training support. Other key points which led to this decision include:

  • Volunteer confidence: The Zodiac boat was the preferred option emerging from lifeboat crew and station feedback during the CLB assessment

  • Technical fit: Provides strong alignment to the operational profile and capability requirements set out for the CLB

  • Commercial & Support: Best overall for value, corporate partnerships, production strategy and training pathway. 

This is an exciting moment to share in the project and the future of the charity’s lifeboat fleet. It’s a result of a huge effort across RNLI teams and a number of volunteer crew involved in the process.

Next steps

We will now work closely with Zodiac to agree a timeline, refine our requirements and finalise the design of the CLB. Our aim is to have two boats move into production in 2027 and be available for operational trials. 

You can watch back the Engineering and Supply webinar from Tuesday 30 June for more updates.

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