D Class Lifeboats
The D class is an inshore lifeboat (ILB). These fast, light inflatable boats are suited to shallow water and confined locations such as close to cliffs, among rocks or even in caves.These craft can reach casualties in places where an all-weather lifeboat would be unable to operate.
First introduced in 1963 the D class has evolved over the years and the version (the IB1) was introduced in 2003.
The D class a single 50hp outboard engine and can be righted manually by the crew after a capsize. Equipment includes both fitted and hand-held VHF radio, night-vision equipment, and first aid kit including oxygen.
All RNLI inshore lifeboats are built and maintained at the Inshore Lifeboat Centre (ILC) in Cowes, Isle of Wight. A D class lifeboat is generally refitted every 2 years. This process sees the entire lifeboat stripped and rebuilt with any part found to be worn, torn or broken being repaired or replaced.
D Class Facts
Introduced: 1963 (Latest version 2003)
Length: 5m
Width: 2m
Load: 400kg
Launch Type: Trolley or davit
Fuel Capacity: 68 litres
Crew: 2-3
Range: 3 hours at maxium speed
Engines: 1 x mariner at 40 or 50hp
| Number | Name | Year Built | Station |
|
D-637
|
Aldergrove II
|
2005
|
Newcastle 2005 to date
|
|
D-643
|
Tra Mhor
|
2005
|
Tramore 2005 to date
|
|
D-644
|
Phillip Robert Booth
|
2005
|
Wexford 2005 to date
|
|
D-646
|
Hannabella Ferguson
|
2005
|
Larne 2005 to date
|
|
D-659
|
George Godfrey Benbow
|
2006
|
Howth 2006 to date
|
|
D-671
|
Sheringham Shanty Men
|
2007
|
Wicklow 2007 to date
|
|
D-679
|
Grainne Uaile
|
2007
|
Clifden 2007 to date
|
|
D-683
|
Trade Winds
|
2007
|
Fethard 2007 to date
|
|
D-687
|
The Western
|
2008
|
Ballyglass 2008 to date
|
|
D-711
|
Cairde an Chuain
|
2009
|
Courtown 2009 to date
|
|
D-726
|
Bradley and Sonia
|
2010
|
Fenit 2010 to date
|
|
D-731
|
Realt na Mara
|
2010
|
Dun laoghaire 2010 to date
|
|
D-738
|
David Roulston
|
2010
|
Portrush 2010 to date
|
