Felixstowe Lifeboat

09/06/2026

🚨 A crucial reminder: When in doubt, make the right call!
📞 Call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

On Sunday 7th June at approx 16:30, our dedicated crew and lifeboat was on the water conducting training when they were immediately tasked by HM Coastguard to reports of a paddle boarder in distress near the River Deben entrance.

Upon our arrival, with Felixstowe Coastguard Rescue Team positioned on land, and NCI Felixstowe observing using their local cameras, we found the experienced paddle boarder onshore at Bawdsey Cliffs. Thankfully they were wearing a suitable wetsuit and buoyancy aid, and confirmed they were not in any difficulty.

If you ever see anything you are unsure of along our coast or rivers, it’s always worth reporting, and certainly never worth ignoring! Don’t hesitate, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
Your awareness can truly save lives! 🚤 🌊

07/06/2026

Yesterday, Saturday 6th June at 16:22, our volunteer crew were tasked by HM Coastguard to assist a yacht in difficulties in Harwich Harbour.

The vessel, which had sailed from the Netherlands, had issued a Pan-Pan call requesting urgent assistance. Due to challenging weather conditions, the decision was made to es**rt the vessel safely into the River Orwell before taking it under tow to Woolverstone Marina.

A huge thank you to the Holbrook Coastguard Rescue Team for their support at Woolverstone Marina. Thank you also to the yachts crew for permitting us to share a photo from the tasking, we wish them a safe onward journey 👀 👉

🧡 Keeping our community informed
We regularly share details of our launches and tasking's to provide an insight into the work carried out by our volunteer crews and the wide range of incidents we attend. However, some calls involve sensitive or personal circumstances and, out of respect for those involved, details may not always be published or may be shared at a later date.

04/06/2026

One week on from the Suffolk Show, we’re still reflecting on what a fantastic two days it was! 🎉🦈🐙

Our volunteers loved meeting so many people, sharing stories about Felixstowe Lifeboat, and showcasing the vital work we do in our community.

Thanks to your incredible generosity, we raised over £240 during the show. Every donation helps support our service, and we’re truly grateful for your support. 🧡

If you’d like to make a one-off donation or become a regular supporter, visit:
www.FelixstoweLifeboat.org.uk/donate

02/06/2026

25/05/2026

Yesterday, 24th May, our independent lifeboat crew was tasked by HM Coastguard to respond to an incident in the Harwich Harbour area.

Arriving first on scene and later joined by lifeboats from RNLI Harwich Lifeboat Station, with land based support from Felixstowe Coastguard Rescue Team, Holbrook Coastguard Rescue Team and Walton Coastguard Rescue Team, along with a Coastguard Rescue Helicopter, an extensive search operation was launched for an individual reported overboard from a nearby vessel.

The coordinated search, led by HM Coastguard at the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre, continued for approximately seven hours with all teams working tirelessly in difficult circumstances.
Following a determined and extensive effort by everyone involved, all assets were stood down by HM Coastguard shortly after 9pm.

We rely on support to keep our lifeboat operational and ready to respond when needed. If you'd like to support our work, please visit our website to donate or find out more, or message us directly through our social media channels.

http://www.FelixstoweLifeboat.org.uk

25/05/2026

🌟 Join us at the Suffolk Show 2026!

Don't forget to stop by and see us in the Emergency Services Area on 27th and 28th May!
Meet our amazing volunteer crew, discover the crucial work we do, and find out how YOU can get involved!

And don’t miss your chance to say hi to our friendly shark! 🦈

We’re excited to see you at Trinity Park!

23/05/2026

21st May was a busy evening for our volunteer lifeboat crew.

Tasked by HM Coastguard, we joined Felixstowe and Holbrook Coastguard Rescue Team’s and Suffolk Constabulary to assist in the search of a missing person in the vicinity of the river Orwell.

Whilst on that tasking our lifeboat crew was waved down by a boat owner who was aground in the area, due to engine failure. The crew conducted a welfare check of all parties onboard and later that night was retasked to attend and assist in getting the boat to a place of safety once it refloated at high tide.

At Felixstowe Lifeboat, our volunteer crew is always ready to answer the call for help.

To learn more about our live saving working and to support us, please visit
http://www.FelixstoweLifeboat.org.uk

18/05/2026

At Felixstowe Lifeboat, we’re proud to serve as an independent lifeboat service, dedicated to protecting our local waters and community. Although we work closely with nearby RNLI stations, we remain independently operated, always ready to answer the call when help is needed most. 🌊

As a founder member of the National Independent Lifeboat Association, we’re committed to shining a light on the important work carried out by independent lifeboats across our coastline.

Independent lifeboats play a crucial role in maritime and water safety. In 2025, they responded to 1 in every 5 emergencies reported to HM Coastguard, providing lifesaving assistance and support when communities needed it most. 🧡

Every bit of support helps us continue our vital work. Join us in helping keep our coastline safe and making a real difference.

Get in touch:
💻 www.FelixstoweLifeboat.org.uk
📧 [email protected]
📱 Connect with us across our social media channels

15/05/2026

Proudly representing Felixstowe Lifeboat!

Last night, 14th May, one of our dedicated volunteer helms proudly showcased Felixstowe Lifeboat at the Felixstowe Town Council Annual Town Meeting and presentation evening held at Felixstowe School and Sixth Form.
As a vital local charity, we are immensely thankful for the support from Felixstowe Town Council over the years 🤝

Support from local councils, businesses and organisations ensures we are always ready to answer the call of our community and safeguard our waterways whenever needed 🌊🚨

If you are a business or community group eager to support us and our continued life saving work we would love to hear from you.
📧 mailto:[email protected]
🌐 http://www.FelixstoweLifeboat.org.uk