Ryde Inshore Rescue is the town of Ryde’s independent inshore lifeboat service.  We are NOT connected with the RNLI in any respect and receive no funding from them.  On pager call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, we are HM Coastguard’s primary maritime rescue service for the coastal area from Osborne Bay to St Helens Fort.

Our main role is to provide beach and sea rescue services to the public.  In 2003 we attended over 60 callouts.  In addition to carrying out routine patrols and watches as mentioned above, we also attend numerous waterborne events and regattas throughout the year, providing safety boat cover as necessary.  One of our main aims is the prevention of accidents at sea and on the foreshores of our area.  We actively promote safety through education and providing advice when necessary.  In addition to this, we are regularly called upon to provide basic first aid to members of the public throughout the busy summer season.

Ryde Inshore Rescue was originally formed in 1956 as a beach lifeguard club.  The club occupied a number of sites over the following years, but continuously provided the beach users of Ryde with a first class lifesaving service.  In 1969, the club took delivery of its first powered rescue boat.  This heralded the evolution of Ryde Inshore Rescue from a lifeguard club to the dedicated inshore lifeboat unit of today.  Despite the changes, our commitment to the beach and sea safety remains the top priority.

The crew at Ryde Inshore Rescue are dedicated and trained volunteers.  Men and women from all walks of life are involved.  In addition to the boat crew, there are a considerable number of shore-based members who focus their skills on activities such as fundraising, maintenance, launching and recovering the lifeboats and radio operation.  The common factor between them is a commitment to keeping the station and boats operational, to meet the requirements of HM Coastguard.

Due to the nature of our work, the upkeep of the boats, launch vehicles and headquarters is of paramount importance.  When the equipment becomes faulty of damaged, it has to be replaced or repaired as a matter of urgency, as lives may depend on it.  At Ryde Inshore Rescue we have a policy of expecting the members to play an active part in the ongoing maintenance programmes.  We have an obligation to HM coastguard to ensure that equipment is continually in a state of readiness; our service can be called upon at any time. 

Training is an important part of the activities that take place here.  All members must attend regular training to ensure they are learning and maintaining the skills required to be a useful part of the team.  Training takes place at least twice a week throughout the year, in all weathers.  On completion of an intensive basic skills course, the boat crew members then embark on a programme of specialist training, which results in the award of a number of nationally recognised qualifications.

Crew Members

Shore Based Members