We operate 2 inshore lifeboats. Our main new rescue boat is our 6.3mt.Ribcraft, holding a crew of three can save up to another 9 souls. Powered by 2 Suzuki DF90's which speed the craft to any rescue at a staggering 36 knots, The "Sir Norman" has now been on station and already in use since late 2007. The boat is equipped with a wide range of safety and navigational equipment, including a self righting system, VHF radios, a satellite navigation system and fire extinguishers, Depth sounder and many more new gadgets. Our second craft is an Avon EA16 inflatable (or ‘D’ class as it is more commonly known).
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The new Lifeboat, which is to be called Sir Norman Echlin, arrived in November but was too late to go into service in 2007. Apart from a failure of the Turbo-pump our main lifeboat Ryde Lions has performed well and remained on service throughout the year. Call outs and incidents have followed the pattern of previous years coming from a variety of sources and over 50% of the people that we have assisted or rescued came from the mainland. Our number two lifeboat the “D” class inflatable has been in constant use throughout the year and has been involved in several of the incidents.
Our availability to the Coastguard improved in 2007 due to more members living and working locally being available during daylight hours on weekdays. We have worked closely with the local Lifeguards and with other Rescue units in the area. Several incidents involved Bembridge
RNLI and Gosport & Fareham Inshore Rescue Service working with us
We have supported all the usual annual events including Ryde Town Regatta, Ryde Rowing Club Regatta, Stokes Bay Regatta, The Round the Island Yacht Race, Merrydown Regatta, Seaview Fireworks and have maintained our contacts with the local Sailing Clubs.
See "Shouts" for 2008 rescue launches.
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