New lifeboat build updates
Updated: Aug 7
In August 2025, we shared the exciting news that we had placed an order for a new Lifeboat.
Following an extensive three‑year search across Europe, we commissioned the aluminium‑hulled FRC 903 from renowned Dutch boatbuilders Habbeke Shipyard. This vessel represents the next generation of lifeboat technology and capability, strengthening our ability to respond when our community needs us most.
This page has been created to share updates as the build progresses, giving you a behind‑the‑scenes look at the journey from concept to launch.
Be sure to check back for regular updates.
07/08/26 - Challenger 1 Returns to Habbeke for Refit and New Launch Carriage Integration
Challenger 1 has headed back to Habbeke Shipyard in Holland for essential repairs and a full refit, including fitting the launch trailer for our new FRC‑903 lifeboat. While it’s away, Challenger 2 remains fully operational on station, keeping launches running smoothly.
28/07/26 - Construction update photos
Construction of the console is progressing well, and the mounting points for all screens and controls are now visible. Work on fitting the deck is also underway, and the Samson post has been installed, which will allow the new lifeboat to tow other vessels when required.
21/07/26 - Center console under construction and further concept images
Construction is underway on the centre console for the boat, where the steering controls and navigation package will be situated.
We’ve also received some new concept pictures of the boat which show where the ballast system will be located. The tank can be filled with fresh water at the station or with seawater when at sea, and is controlled using a lever at the helm position. Having the ballast tank filled will give the bow extra weight to help when operating in surf.
09/07/26 - Hull turned right way up
The hull has now been turned the right way up for the first time. Over the coming weeks, the deck will be fitted and the hull filled with foam to add further buoyancy.
15/06/26 - Hull construction update
Now that the skeleton has been constructed, the plates of the hull are now being welded in place.
03/06/26 - Hull construction update
The welding of the aluminium hull has been ongoing at Habbeke Shipyard over the last few weeks, and the vessel is now beginning to take shape.
24/04/26 - Aluminium arrives on site
The aluminium plate package arrived at Habbeke Shipyard this week from the manufacturer. With the materials now on site, construction of the hull will soon begin.
In the meantime, Southport Lifeboat and Habbeke Shipyard are continuing detailed discussions on the design of the bespoke launch and recovery carriage for the vessel. This specialist equipment will be engineered specifically for our operating environment, ensuring the new lifeboat can be launched and recovered safely and efficiently in all conditions.
05/02/26 - Updated designs received
Following further CAD development on the new lifeboat, we have received updated renderings showing how the finished vessel will look.
In the background, the aluminium has been ordered and is scheduled for delivery in April, marking the next major step toward the start of construction.
06/11/25 - Design visit to Habbeke Shipyard
Some of our Coxswains travelled to the Netherlands to finalise key design elements of our new lifeboat, including the layout of the console at Habbeke Shipyard.
The team worked with a mock‑up of the console, allowing them to physically position each element of our controls, navigation suite, communication devices and direction finder. By moving components around and testing different arrangements, they were able to agree on the most efficient and intuitive layout for future operations.
While at the shipyard, the crew also had the opportunity to view other vessels currently in production, including a new KNRM Van Dijk Class lifeboat. Seeing these builds up close offered useful insight into the craftsmanship and innovation that will shape our own boat as it progresses.
Work is due to begin on the new vessel in April
