1963 Press Photo Mini Lifeboat Show Their Paces

New Mini Lifeboat Show Their Paces. Yesterday at Littlehampton, Sussex, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution gave the first public appearance to their new fast rescue craft. These mini life boats are inflatable and are constructed of tough nylon material and are virtually unsinkable, as if they are holed they will still float and can be rowed or propelled by powerful outboard motors and are capable of speeds up to 20 knots (about 25MPH) and are intended for use in the shallow off bathing beaches where conventional lifeboats could not operate. They cost approximately $500 whereas a large boat cost $40,000, and initially the R.N.L.I are having four of them to be stationed at popular resorts around the coast. Photo Shows: The Mini lifeboat with its crew of two and a helper.

Photo measures 10 x 8 inches.

Photo is dated 4-18-1963.



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