The Shannon Class lifeboat was designed to save lives in practically any weather even when the seas throw a massive tantrum. It’s self-righting so that it can return to an upright position should it capsize and it was given a unique hull to minimize slamming in heavy seas. Time is of the essence when lives are at stake and the Shannon is equipped with two 650hp Scania engines that propel the craft to a maximum speed of 25 knots. It’s tough enough for rough seas but it’s versatile enough to operate on shallow waters thanks to its twin Hamilton HJ364 waterjets that also give it agility and maneuverability. The Shannon has a capacity for up to 79 survivors with a range of 250 nautical miles. The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has 10 of these in their stations with 4 in the relief fleet at the ready. RNLI is a charity that saves lives around the coasts of the UK and Ireland and is crewed by unpaid volunteers so if you want a shot at going behind the wheel of the Shannon then consider joining the RNLI.
featured photo by Dave James/RNLI
See RNLI’s Shannon Class Lifeboat in Action