Tower and Chiswick Lifeboat Stations are consistently among the busiest in the RNLI. Their E class lifeboats are among the fastest in the fleet, with a top speed of almost 40 knots, and are powered by waterjets for extra manoeuvrability in the fast-flowing waters of the River Thames.

After consulting with crew members and maintenance staff, the RNLI’s naval architects and engineers are now finalising the design of the E class Mk II. Priorities for the new lifeboat include increased operational effectiveness, improved crew comfort and ergonomics, and reduced maintenance costs and environmental impact.

The first of the Mk II is now in production with Marine Specialised Technology Ltd (MST), with the hull made from composite glass-epoxy instead of aluminium.