Our main lifeboat "Broads ILB1" is a D-Class Inshore lifeboat.
Since being Introduced in 1963 the class has evolved from the basic Zodiac type inflatables that were used then into the current 4.9m (16ft) x 2m (6ft 7in) Evans-Avon Inflatable that is used today. The boat is constructed of Nylon coated Hypalon Inflatable Sponsons, which are made in individual sections so that if one or more parts are deflated the rest of the boat stays afloat. A flexible hull with a inflatable keel And a plywood floor with a rubber/foam mattress,

It's ideal for rescues on the Broads as it is fast and manoeuvrable enough to be able to get between boats and down small inlets. With a crew of 3 or 4 it has room for survivors and all the gear it carries. the boat carries a variety of equipment for different tasks from first aid to towing, & is fitted with a VHF radio. Power is by a single 40hp outboard engine that runs on a mixture of petrol and 2 Stroke oil, from two flexible fuel tanks either side inboard of the inflatable sponsons; these tanks carry enough fuel to be "on service" for approximately 3 hours at constant full speed, which is around 20 knots.

D-Class IB1

At some point in the future our D-Class may be replaced with the new D-Class IB1, to find out more about this class of boat click the above link.