Islay RNLI all-weather lifeboat returns from major refit
The Islay RNLI lifeboat, Helmut Schroder of Dunlossit II, has returned to service following a comprehensive refit at the RNLI’s All-Weather Lifeboat Centre in Poole. The 17-metre vessel underwent an extensive overhaul to ensure it remains fully equipped for many more years of lifesaving operations.
Introduced in 1997, Helmut Schroder of Dunlossit II, was the eighth Severn-class lifeboat built for the RNLIs all-weather fleet. With a top speed of 25 knots and a range of 250 nautical miles, the Severn is the largest of the RNLI's lifeboats. Islay’s lifeboat was named in honour of Helmut Schroder, whose family has generously supported Islay RNLI for decades. The lifeboat operates from Port Askaig, covering Islay, Jura and the Sound of Mull.
RNLI technicians have now undertaken a major refit of the 28-year old vessel in the All Weather Lifeboat Centre, which includes two large boat halls to maintain and manufacture lifeboats in the RNLI fleet. Propellers and engines have been removed and overhauled, all major systems inspected, replaced or upgraded where possible. The condition of the fibreglass hull has also been closely checked before repairing and repainting.
While the refit was underway, a relief Severn-class lifeboat maintained emergency cover at Islay. On its return in June 2025, Helmut Schroder of Dunlossit II was quickly back in action - launching just four days later to assist a yacht with engine failure in the Sound of Jura. The yacht was safely towed to Crinan, with the volunteer crew returning to station in the early evening.
This successful return marks a milestone for Islay RNLI and the Severn-class refit programme. With over 40 Severn-class lifeboats in the fleet, the RNLI’s investment in maintaining their condition reflects a strong commitment to operational readiness, and continued lifesaving excellence.
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The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.
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