Our fleet
Our specially adapted former RNLI Lifeboat is currently available from Dartmouth. New locations are constantly being added. Call us on 01536 314 914 and we will be happy to assist you.
Samuel Wesley
DARTMOUTH, CORNWALL
Built in 1990, at the same time as the development of a new boathouse specifically designed to house the new lifeboat. The existing boathouse was too small to accommodate the Lincolnshire Poacher and its launching tractor. The new boathouse also facilitated the storage of the station’s D-Class lifeboat, an office, a souvenir sales outlet, a workshop, and enhanced facilities for the crew.
Capable of reaching speeds up to 17 knots, these lifeboats can be launched from a carriage or slipway. The construction cost of the Samuel Wesley exceeded £450,000.
Designed primarily for carriage launch, the Mersey-class can also be launched from a slipway or remain afloat as needed. The boat’s collapsible mast and aerials allow for reduced height, facilitating storage in the boathouse. With a sealed cabin, the Mersey-class possesses self-righting capabilities.
The lifeboat is powered by two Caterpillar 285 hp turbocharged engines and carries 1,110 litres of fuel, providing a range of 240 nautical miles. Its crew capacity as a lifeboat was six, and it carried an inflatable boat for sea deployment, with the survivor compartment capable of accommodating up to 43 individuals.
Having served in Skegness from 1990 to 2017, the Samuel Wesley became part of the RNLI relief fleet from 2017 to 2021. During its active service, it was launched 352 times, playing a crucial role in saving the souls of 195 individuals.
The Lincolnshire Poacher is a traditional English folk song associated with the county of Lincolnshire. It portrays the joy of poaching, and is known as the unofficial county anthem of Lincolnshire.
More vessels coming soon
We are always adding new vessels to our fleet to offer services from more locations across the UK.