D Class Lifeboat

The D class lifeboat entered service in 1963 and is powered by a single outboard engine mounted on a wooden transom. The latest "IB1" type D class lifeboats has a top speed of 25 knots and can remain on service for at least three hours.

The hull is flexible and the inflatable sponsons are divided into compartments. The fabric is exceptionally tough being nylon, coated with hypalon, giving high resistance to damage from abrasion. The inflatable is also very stable - it can be launched into surf up to 7ft in height.

The crew kneel or sit on a mattress which gives some protection from the pounding and slamming in the waves. Equipment includes a VHF radio, first aid kit with oxygen, flares, compass, a spare propeller, GPS, and an anchor.

Inflatable lifeboats are generally only used in moderate sea conditions. The D class is used mainly during daylight, but are now equipped with navigation lights and torches enabling night time launches when required. If the D class is launched at night it usually has back-up with either an all-weather lifeboat, a helicopter, or both.