New Lifeboat Facility to Be Established in Southampton

A new dedicated lifeboat facility is set to be established in Southampton as part of efforts to strengthen lifesaving cover across Southampton Water and the Rivers Itchen and Test.

The decision follows a steady rise in incidents in the area over the past three years. In 2025 alone, lifeboat crews responded to 43 separate search and rescue call-outs on these waterways.

After consultation with search and rescue partners, and with support from Chieftain Training at Southampton Water Activities Centre (SWAC), plans are now in place to station a new lifeboat at the SWAC site. The vessel will operate on an immediate pager call-out basis, mirroring the response model used by the existing independent lifeboat service on the River Hamble.

Trials of the new lifeboat are expected to begin in the coming months, with the service aiming to be fully operational by 1 July 2026. Once launched, the facility will enhance emergency response capability in one of the region’s busiest and most challenging stretches of water.

Organisers say the project is still in its early stages and will rely heavily on community support. Recruitment is underway for volunteer lifeboat crew, as well as fundraising volunteers, shore support staff and behind-the-scenes roles.

Those involved stress that volunteers do not need to have maritime experience or high levels of physical fitness. Instead, the service is seeking people from all backgrounds who are local, committed and willing to contribute in a way that suits their skills and availability.

Residents or workers who live within 15 minutes of SWAC and are able to respond to emergency call-outs are particularly encouraged to enquire about crew roles. Others who wish to support through fundraising, administration or practical help ashore are also invited to get involved.

Further information is available by contacting enquiries@southamptonlifeboat.org.uk.