New Atlantic 85 class lifeboat arrives at Port Erin RNLI

The new lifeboat will replace the station’s current Atlantic 85 class lifeboat, Muriel and Leslie, as she reaches the end of her operational life.

The Atlantic 85, with a top speed of 35 knots from two 115hp engines, is well known for its relative speed, manoeuvrability, agility and versatility compared to other classes in the RNLI fleet, resulting in some dramatic rescues since it was first launched 20 years ago.

The new Atlantic 85 will be named Neil Crowe after Mr Neil Crowe who died in 2024 after a short illness. Neil was an active member of the Isle of Man Yacht Club, which in turn led to his involvement with the Gough Ritchie Charitable Trust and the RNLI. Neil provided guidance to Ann Ritchie in setting up the Gough Ritchie Charitable Trust and was also a founding Trustee. The Trustees of the Gough Ritchie Charitable Trust, who have funded five lifeboats across the island to date, are naming this latest charitable gift in Neil’s memory in recognition of his service to the Trust and support of the RNLI.

A naming ceremony will take place at Port Erin Breakwater on Saturday 12 July 2025 at high tide, which coincides with Port Erin Beach Festival.

Speaking following the arrival of the new lifeboat, Lewis Ridgeway, Port Erin RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager said:

'We are extremely grateful to the Trustees of the Gough Ritchie Trust for this generous donation.

'The volunteer crew will greatly miss B-813 Muriel and Leslie, which they have lovingly maintained for 19 years, launching her on service 107 times to date during her years at Port Erin. During that time period, Muriel and Leslie has come to the aid of 86 people, and a total of 4 lives have been saved.

'However, the crew are excited to welcome their new Atlantic 85 lifeboat, and can’t wait to start a new chapter of saving lives at sea with the B-951 Neil Crowe.'

Without donations, legacies and the support of people and organisations like the Gough Ritchie Charitable Trust, RNLI crews wouldn’t be able to carry on our lifesaving service. Gifts in Wills are our crews’ protection at sea. Approximately six out of every ten lifeboat launches are possible thanks to the generosity of supporters leaving us a gift in their will, visit RNLI.org/legacy for further details. You can also donate in memory of a loved one at RNLI.org/LaunchAMemory.

ENDS

RNLI media contacts

For more information please contact Port Erin Lifeboat Press Officer, Niki Beesley on [email protected] or 07624 481410.

Alternatively you can contact Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith, RNLI Regional Communications Manager, on [email protected] or 07977 728 315 or the RNLI Press Office on [email protected] or 01202 336789.