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| Like many of the 233 RNLI stations in the UK
and Ireland, Shoreham has two boats. The ALB (All weather lifeboat) is a 47ft Tyne class boat which is capable of putting to sea in any conditions and carries a crew of five or more. The boat is capable of around 18 knots (20 mph) and can maintain this speed in virtually any sea. She is extremely well equipped, carrying extensive first aid, pumping, and even fire fighting equipment as well as an on call doctor if required. The Tyne is a self righting design meaning that should the worse happen and the boat is knocked down by extreme seas, she will right herself within 5 seconds and should not sustain damage beyond perhaps the radio aerials and the radar array. She is powered by two 425 hp diesel engines and has an effective range of 240 nautical miles which would see her comfortably cross the channel and back if required! The ILB (Inshore lifeboat) is a 16ft D class boat crewed by two or three. Her operation is limited by weather but with an experienced crew she is extremely capable and can put to sea in some quite extreme conditions if required. The D Class has been in service now for over 40 years and has evolved into an amazingly capable boat. Her shallow draft and light weight mean she can work right up a tidal river like the Adur, in to paddling distance off the beaches or tight in behind treacherous sea defences. |
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