Irish Lifeboats

The Tyne class lifeboat was the first introduced in 1982 and was the RNLi's first 'fast' slipway launch lifeboat. The Tyne class can also lie afloat. Features Include a low-profile wheelhouse and a separate cabin behind the upper steering position. The propellers are protected by substantial bilge keels. 

The Tyne class is self-righting, aided by twin automatically inflating bags on the aft cabin roof. The masts and aerials can be lowered when working with helicopters and to fit into a boathouse. The Tyne carries an X boat, a small unpowered and manually launched inflatable daughter boat, to access areas where the all-weather lifeboat cannot reach.

The last Tyne was built in 1990 and the class is currently in the process of being replaced by the new Tamar class. Many of the retired Tyne class lifeboats have now been sold to other rescue organisations across the world.