Our lifeboat fleet

There are over 400 lifeboats in the RNLI fleet based at our lifeboat stations around the UK and Ireland and in our relief fleet. Between them, RNLI lifeboats cover 19,000 miles of coastline and some busy inland stretches of water. Here you can find out about the different classes of RNLI lifeboats and their technical and lifesaving features.

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 neighbouring lifeboat stations.

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.

Inshore lifeboats (ILBs) usually operate closer to shore, in shallower water, near cliffs, rocks and even in caves.

We also have inshore rescue hovercraft for areas that are inaccessible to conventional RNLI lifeboats such as mud flats and river estuaries.

Powering our fleet

Our lifeboats couldn’t run without your support. Every launch is only possible thanks to donations from people like you.

RNLI lifeboats are always ready to save lives at sea thanks to the care and attention given to them by station mechanics and our maintenance teams out on the coast and at our all-weather and inshore lifeboat centres. When they require longer repairs or planned services, refits and modifications, they are temporarily replaced by the same class of lifeboat from our relief fleet. Every single lifeboat can only operate with donations from people like you. Help us keep our lifeboats ready to rescue, so that when our brave volunteers launch, they can be sure the lifeboat is ready to go.