Portsmouth and Southsea Voluntary Lifeguards to launch brand new lifeboat in the solent
The boat will be launched on the 13th May 2017 by Sir Alan Massey KCB, CBE at the Camber Docks in Portsmouth
Constructed by Ribcraft Ribs, who are based in Yeovil, Portsea Rescue 1 is a 6.8 meter craft and is powered by 2 Suzuki 140bhp outboard engines capable of a maximum speed of 48 knots. This tremendous speed allows Portsmouth and Southsea Voluntary Lifeguards (PSVL) to reach anyone in danger in the Solent in the shortest time possible. The boat’s official maximum weather capability is a force 8 gale (39-46mph wind speed with wave heights of 5.5m-7.5m). However, with extensive training PSVL are able to launch in conditions far worse in order to attend an incident. Portsea Rescue 1 has a self-righting mechanism that activates in the event of a capsize, however unlikely this may be. This ensures the safety of the crew on board, as well as other boats. The electronic systems on board are all manufactured by locally based Raymarine, and are one of the most advanced systems on the market today. The electronics include a touchscreen GPS chart plotter, radar, 3D downvue sonar, 2 VHF radios with DSC that allows us to contact the coastguard, AIS transmit and receive, on board engine diagnostics and data display, PA system, twin blue lights, navigation lights and twin bilge pumps. All this means that we are technologically up to date, giving us the best possible chance when it comes to dealing with incidents around Portsmouth and in the Solent. The rescue boat also has twin 100 litre fuel tanks, allowing us a range of 8 hours at full speed or 16 hours at cruising speed. This equates to a range of roughly 440 miles.
Vice Admiral Sir Alan Massey KCB, CBE, is a former senior officer in the Royal Navy who served as the Second Sea Lord, and is now the CEO of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency. Sir Alan Massey will be in attendance and launching Portsea Rescue 1 on the day. On the 13th of May, guests arrive at 11am at our newly renovated headquarters on Southsea Seafront, for a chance to catch a glimpse of the boat for the first time, and also for some refreshments. Then at 1 o clock, the official launch will take place at the Camber Docks, opposite the Ben Ainsley Racing HQ, shortly followed by demonstrations not only by the new lifeboat, but also our second lifeboat Portsea Rescue 2 and multiple lifeguard demonstrations too.
Anyone is welcome to attend the event, which begins at 11am on the 13th of May and is located at our headquarters in Southsea. Click here for information about where to find us.
