The Trent class lifeboat entered service in 1994. It was designed and developed by RNLI staff to replace the Waveney and Arun class lifeboats that lie afloat either at deep water moorings or at a berth. The design requirement was for two lifeboats of different sizes, capable of greater speed and providing protected propellers and the ability to take to the ground if required. The Trent and Severn class lifeboats were the result. Both are capable of 25 knots and like all new all-weather lifeboats are self-righting after a capsize.

The Trent class is constructed from fibre reinforced composite (FRC) material which combines exceptional strength with light weight. A sandwich form of construction is used for the hull, deck and superstructure. The hull is subdivided into six watertight compartments and the wheelhouse contains seating for seven crew whilst the fore cabin has seating for 10 survivors. There is provision for a stretcher to be secured in the wheelhouse and further stretcher capacity in the forecabin. The Trent carries an inflatable X-boat which can be deployed in modereate conditions to gain access in shallow areas.

• radar
• chart plotter
• echo sounder
• GPS (satellite navigation)
• VHF & MF radios
• VHF direction finder
• CCTV & intercom system

• Length: 14.26m (46ft 9in)
• Beam: 4.90m (1 6ft 1 in)
• Draught (aft): 1.25m (4ft 1 in)
• Displacement: 26 tonnes
• Horsepower: 1700
• Engines: 2 x MAN diesels
• Fuel capacity: 4100 litres (900 gallons)
• Crew: 6
• Speed: 25 knots
• Range: 250 nautical miles
• Capacity Self righting 28 persons, non-self righting 102 persons