D Class (IB1) Lifeboats
First introduced into the RNLI fleet in 1963, the design of the inflatable D class lifeboat continues to evolve to meet changes in demand and technology. The current version the IB1 was introduced in 2003.
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.
The D class has 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-726
|
Bradley and Sonia
|
2010
|
Fenit 08/01/10 to date
|
|
D-731
|
Realt na Mara
|
2010
|
Dun laoghaire 10/06/10 to date
|
|
D-738
|
David Roulston (Civil Service No. 52)
|
2010
|
Portrush 09/09/10 to date
|
|
D-775
|
Eliza
|
2014
|
Newcastle 03/12/14 to date
|
|
D-781
|
Isabella Purchase
|
2015
|
Tramore 28/05/15 to date
|
|
D-782
|
Alfred William Newman
|
2015
|
Wexford 25/06/15 to date
|
|
D-783
|
Terry
|
2015
|
Larne 21/07/15 to date
|
|
D-796
|
Aideen Cresswell
|
2016
|
Howth 12/07/16 to date
|
|
D-806
|
Dennis-Audrey
|
2016
|
Wicklow 23/02/17 to date
|
|
D-815
|
Celia Mary
|
2017
|
Clifden 19/10/17 to 2020
|
|
D-819
|
Naomh Dubhan
|
2017
|
Fethard 01/02/18 to date
|
|
D-823
|
Clann Lir
|
2018
|
Ballyglass 28/06/18 to date
|
|
D-846
|
|
2019
|
Courtown 29/01/20 to date
|
|
D-860
|
|
2021
|
Fenit due 2021
|
|
|
|
2021
|
Dun Laoghaire due 2021
|
Lifeboats listed in YELLOW are under construction. Lifeboats listed in WHITE are in service.
Last Updated 18/02/21