Tynemouth RNLI is set to welcome the newest modern Tamar class all-weather lifeboat this July. The boat will replace the station's current Severn class lifeboat, 17-34 Osier, which has been in service since 2021.
The change forms part of a wider RNLI fleet modernisation programme announced in 2025, with a number of lifeboats around the coast being replaced and updated to ensure crews continue to have the best possible equipment to save lives at sea. The new Tamar class lifeboat, 16-19 Irene Muriel Rees, was built in 2011.
Most recently it was part of the RNLI's relief fleet, but has now become the first lifeboat to be fitted with SIMS (Systems and Information Management System), an RNLI innovation in marine engineering that has transformed the way crews operate their lifeboats, dramatically improving their safety. SIMS allows the crew to control and monitor many of the lifeboat's functions without having to leave the safety of their seats.
Tynemouth RNLI Coxswain Vincenzo "Enzo" Stifanelli said: "The Tamar is a very capable all-weather lifeboat and will be ideal for the range of shouts we are tasked to. It's a more modern platform for our crews to continue to save lives at sea. The crew are really looking forward to welcoming the new boat to our station."
The Tamar has a total range of 250 nautical miles and a top speed of 25 knots (29 mph), ensuring Tynemouth's offshore capability is maintained.
The RNLI charity saves lives at sea with volunteers providing a 24-hour rescue service around the UK and Republic of Ireland coasts. Tynemouth volunteer crew members will undertake familiarisation and operational training at the RNLI College in Poole, ahead of the lifeboat entering service at the station.
Irene Muriel Rees is set to arrive at Tynemouth at midday on 11th July, with readers able to follow further details on the charity's social media. Tynemouth has been home to a Severn class lifeboat since 1998, with 17-20 Spirit of Northumberland before she was withdrawn in 2021 and replaced by Osier.
Its replacement by the Irene Muriel Rees signals the next chapter in all-weather lifeboat capability on the Tyne, securing the station's future all-weather capability for years to come. Enzo said: "Although it will be sad to say goodbye to Osier, we are excited for the future and look forward to continuing our lifesaving work with Irene Muriel Rees for many years to come."
