The Portree Lifeboat Station in Skye has a new, state-of-the-art addition to its fleet: the RNLB Peter and Mary, a £2.8 million Shannon class lifeboat. This vessel was recently launched for the first time, marking a significant milestone in maritime safety. The ceremony, held at the RNLI's all-weather lifeboat center in Poole, Dorset, was a traditional bell-ringing affair, signifying the end of the previous lifeboat's service and the beginning of the new vessel's role. The current Portree lifeboat, named Stanley Watson Barker, has been in service since 1996, and the crew is eager to upgrade to the latest technology. The Shannon class lifeboat is the smallest and lightest all-weather lifeboat, designed and built entirely in-house by the RNLI. It is propelled by water jets, achieving a top speed of 25 knots, and is part of the RNLI's 2040 lifeboat fleet strategy. The upgrade is a significant step forward in maritime safety, ensuring that the Portree Lifeboat Station remains at the forefront of emergency response capabilities. Other stations in line for upgrades this year include Fraserburgh and Wick, with Barra and Buckie set to receive new vessels in 2027.
