Inshore lifeboat will continue to help save lives in Guernsey

Saturday 13 May 2023

An inshore lifeboat that has been on trial since 2019 will now be permanently stationed in the island.

In that time the Atlantic 85 class vessel has launched to more than 60 incidents, going to more each year.

“Following an extensive trial, we’re delighted that the RNLI Trustees have confirmed that the Atlantic 85 class lifeboat will remain at St Peter Port as an operational lifesaving asset,” said Matt Cridland, RNLI Area Lifesaving Manager.

“I’d like to thank all the volunteers at St Peter Port for their enthusiasm, dedication and commitment during this trial process, and look forward to seeing this newly placed asset continue to enhance the RNLI’s lifesaving capabilities around the island.”

The news was confirmed that the St Peter Port station’s AGM earlier this week.

The RNLI has also recently invested in moving the Guernsey RNLI shop, which is now located in St Peter Port harbour.

Pictured: Jason Norman coxswain, Jim Le Pelley, chairman of the Lifeboat Management Group, and Jason Hobbs, Lifeboat Operations Manager. Picture by RNLI.

Jason Hobbs took over from Chris Harvey as volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager last summer. 

“The first year as lifeboat operations manager has certainly been busy, with lots of new developments both within the operational team and the wider St Peter Port RNLI family,” he said.

“I’d like to thank everyone for their continued support and commitment to the station. Now with two RNLI lifesaving assets we will be looking into this year to expand upon our crew and further develop the skills of our volunteers. As a team we remain strong and forward focused to keeping our waters around the Bailiwick as safe as we possibly can.”

The St Peter Port station also operates a Severn class all-weather lifeboat, Spirit of Guernsey.

Pictured top: the Atlantic 85 class lifeboat. Picture by RNLI.