The modern Thames lifeboats

Lifeboats at speed. © NMM

Today, there is a fully dedicated lifeboat service operated by the RNLI. It was introduced in 2002, with stations at Gravesend and Central London.

The new E-class lifeboat at speed on the Thames. © NMM

The E-class boats are built of an aluminium alloy with a closed cell foam collar or sponson. They are the fastest in the RNLI’s fleet  and capable of operating at a top speed of 40 knots for up to four hours.