Arklow RNLI to celebrate 200 years of lifesaving with Bicentenary Gala Dinner
Wednesday 14 October 2026
Arklow RNLI is preparing to celebrate a remarkable 200 years of saving lives at sea with a special Bicentenary Gala Dinner in November, marking two centuries of service to the local community.
Established in 1826, Arklow Lifeboat Station has played a vital role in protecting lives along the coast for generations, with volunteer crews answering the call for help in all conditions and often putting themselves in danger to bring others to safety.
The bicentenary marks a significant milestone in the station’s history, providing an opportunity to reflect on the dedication of those who have served on Arklow’s lifeboats over the past two centuries, while also recognising the continued support of the community that has stood behind the service.
Throughout its 200-year history, generations of lifeboat volunteers have left their families and the safety of the shore behind to respond to those in peril at sea. While lifeboat technology, equipment and operational capabilities have evolved dramatically, the commitment and courage of the volunteer crew have remained at the heart of the service.
John Bermingham, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Arklow RNLI, said the anniversary was a special occasion for both the lifeboat station and the wider community.
“Reaching 200 years is a very special occasion for Arklow RNLI and for the whole community. It is a chance to remember and honour all those who have served on the lifeboats over the generations, and to recognise the incredible support we have received from the people of Arklow and surrounding areas.
“Our lifeboat crews are proud to continue the tradition of lifesaving that began here 200 years ago. The equipment and technology may have changed, but the commitment to helping those in trouble at sea remains exactly the same.
“The bicentenary is very much a celebration of the past, but it is also about looking towards the future and ensuring that Arklow RNLI remains ready to respond whenever the call for help comes.”
The Bicentenary Gala Dinner will bring together current and former lifeboat crew members, RNLI volunteers, supporters, fundraisers, members of the local community and invited guests for an evening celebrating the station’s extraordinary legacy.
The occasion will also recognise the important contribution made by the wider Arklow community over the years. From fundraising events and collections to the families who support volunteer crew members, the lifeboat service depends on a dedicated network of people whose generosity and commitment help keep the station ready for its lifesaving work.
Behind every lifeboat launch is a community that understands the importance of having a volunteer crew ready to respond when someone needs help at sea. The bicentenary offers an opportunity to acknowledge that shared commitment and the many people who have helped sustain the service since 1826.
John Bermingham added: “We would encourage everyone who has a connection with Arklow RNLI, whether through the lifeboat station, fundraising or simply as a member of our community, to join us for what promises to be a very memorable evening.
“Two hundred years is an incredible achievement and one that belongs to the whole community. We look forward to celebrating it together.”
The Arklow RNLI Bicentenary Gala Dinner will take place on Saturday, 28 November 2026, at 7pm in Hudson’s Arklow Bay Hotel.
The black-tie event is an opportunity for the Arklow community and RNLI supporters to come together to honour two centuries of lifesaving, remember those who have served before them and celebrate the volunteers who continue that proud tradition today.
Tickets cost €75 per person and are on sale now. Members of the public are encouraged to book early and join Arklow RNLI in celebrating this historic milestone.
Tickets are available at www.gr8events.ie/arklow-rnli-gala-bicentenary-dinner.
