Launching from a trolley or davit, the D class lifeboat is ideal for rescues close to shore in fair to moderate conditions.

Here at Bembridge we launch the Norman Harvey (D-778) over the beach using a tracked vehicle (Tooltrak) & trailer combination.

Our D class lifeboat has a single 50hp outboard engine with a stainless steel propellor and can be righted manually by the crew after a capsize.

First introduced into the fleet in 1963, the design of the D class has continued to evolve since its introduction and the latest version (also known as the IB1-type) was introduced in 2003.

Equipment includes both fitted and hand-held VHF radio, night-vision equipment, and first aid kit including oxygen.