
RNLI Tenby Lifeboat Station
Witness the power of a Tamar class lifeboat and the dedication of its volunteer crew at this vital RNLI station.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See the lifeboat in action

RNLI Tenby Lifeboat Station
Best Time
See the lifeboat in action

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the power of a Tamar class lifeboat and the dedication of its volunteer crew at this vital RNLI station.
"It's awesome to see the lifeboat up close and the staff are very helpful!"

🎯 Check for Training Launches
Ask staff about scheduled training sessions to witness a lifeboat launch!
📏 Lifeboat Size Surprise
The real lifeboat is much bigger than you'd expect!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Tamar Class Lifeboat
Inside the station
Get up close to a powerful Tamar class all-weather lifeboat. It's much bigger than you imagine!

Lifeboat Launch Spectacle
From the station slipway
Experience the thrill of a lifeboat launch, whether a real call-out or a training exercise.

Historic Lifeboat Stations
Castle Beach and South Beach
See the original 1862 station and its successor, offering a glimpse into maritime history.

RNLI Souvenir Shop
Within the current station
Support a great cause by purchasing unique RNLI merchandise. All proceeds aid rescue efforts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for a Launch
Understanding the RNLI's Mission
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check for Training Launches
Ask staff about scheduled training sessions to witness a lifeboat launch!
📏 Lifeboat Size Surprise
The real lifeboat is much bigger than you'd expect!
🤝 Friendly & Knowledgeable Staff
Chat with the crew; they're happy to share info and answer questions.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Welcome
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, making it great for all visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check for Training Launches
Ask staff about scheduled training sessions to witness a lifeboat launch!
📏 Lifeboat Size Surprise
The real lifeboat is much bigger than you'd expect!
🤝 Friendly & Knowledgeable Staff
Chat with the crew; they're happy to share info and answer questions.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Welcome
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, making it great for all visitors.
💖 Support a Great Cause
Shop at the souvenir store; proceeds fund vital rescue operations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the RNLI Tenby Lifeboat Station for its impressive lifeboat and the opportunity to witness launches. The friendly and knowledgeable staff, along with the chance to support a vital cause through the souvenir shop, are frequently highlighted as positives. Some visitors note that parking in Tenby can be challenging.
"Great to see the large lifeboat close up, good shop, friendly staff, it's dog friendly"
jason smith
"Can see the Lifeboat which is awesome. Some history dotted about which is interesting. Small shop with the usual souvenirs. Near to the harbour and lots of shops/cafes. Lovely area."
Carol Capille
"A fascinating place to have a look around and see the lifeboat and some of the staff. The souvenir shop has a good range of items for sale and if course it all goes to a good course. We were tol by one of the very helpful members of staff about a practice launch of the boat later in the week. Which i have hopefully attached the video to this post as well as a few pictures."
T H
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The current RNLI Tenby Lifeboat Station is located on the north side of Castle Hill, accessible via a slipway. It's a short walk from Tenby's harbour and town center. The older, disused station is on Castle Beach.
Parking in Tenby can be challenging, especially during peak season. Several public car parks are available in the town, a short walk from the station. Consider using them to avoid congestion.
Yes, Tenby is well-served by bus routes. The nearest bus stops are in the town center, from where you can easily walk to the lifeboat station.
The current station is generally accessible, but it's advisable to contact them directly for specific accessibility details regarding the slipway and viewing areas.
The station is a working operational base. While the shop has set hours, the station itself is active 24/7. It's best to check their official website or social media for visitor access and shop times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to view the lifeboat and the station is generally free. Donations are highly appreciated, and purchases from the shop directly support the RNLI's life-saving work.
There is no admission fee to visit the station and see the lifeboat. The RNLI relies on public support through donations and shop sales.
While formal tours might not always be available, staff are often happy to chat and answer questions. Inquire at the station about any informal opportunities or scheduled events.
The station is a working rescue center. Visitor access to the main viewing areas and the shop typically aligns with standard daytime hours, but it's wise to confirm beforehand.
There are no age restrictions for visiting the RNLI Tenby Lifeboat Station. It's a family-friendly environment, and children are often fascinated by the lifeboats.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see the impressive Tamar class all-weather lifeboat up close, learn about the RNLI's history, and visit the souvenir shop. If you're lucky, you might witness a training launch or even a real call-out.
Most visitors spend between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on whether they catch a launch or spend time browsing the shop and chatting with staff.
Yes, photography is generally permitted, especially of the lifeboat and the station exterior. Be mindful of any operational areas and respect the privacy of the crew.
While the current station is modern, you can see the original 1862 lifeboat station on Castle Beach, offering a historical perspective.
The best way is to inquire with the staff about scheduled training sessions. Spontaneous launches are unpredictable but thrilling to witness. Arrive early for a good vantage point.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The station itself does not typically have a cafe or restaurant. However, Tenby's harbour area, which is very close by, offers numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants.
While there are no specific restrictions mentioned, it's generally best to consume your own food and drinks away from the operational areas of the station. There are plenty of scenic spots nearby for picnics.
Yes, Tenby has many family-friendly eateries. You'll find a variety of options ranging from fish and chips to casual cafes, all within easy walking distance of the station.
📸 📸 Photography
The area around the slipway offers great views of the lifeboat and the station. The historic station on Castle Beach also provides picturesque photo opportunities.
Absolutely! Capturing a lifeboat launch is a popular activity. Be ready with your camera, and consider different angles from the promenade or the harbour.
Generally, photography is allowed for personal use. However, always be respectful of the operational environment and avoid photographing sensitive areas or individuals without permission.
You can get close-up shots of the lifeboat's equipment, the interior of the vessel, and the station's operational setup.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) can provide beautiful light. However, any time you can witness a launch or see the lifeboat ready for action will yield dramatic photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Make sure to check if there are any scheduled training launches during your visit, as seeing the lifeboat in action is a definite highlight for younger visitors. The souvenir shop also offers a chance for kids to pick out a memento, with all proceeds supporting the charity. Remember to bring comfortable shoes as there might be some walking involved, especially if exploring the historic station.
⚓ Maritime History Enthusiasts
This juxtaposition provides a clear visual of how lifeboat technology and station infrastructure have evolved. Chatting with the friendly staff at the current station can also offer insights into the station's operational history and the lineage of its lifeboats. Collecting RNLI pin badges from different stations is also a popular pursuit for enthusiasts.
📸 Photographers
Consider visiting during the 'golden hours' of sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting. If you're lucky enough to witness a launch, be prepared for dynamic shots of the lifeboat in motion. The historic old lifeboat station on Castle Beach also provides a picturesque backdrop, especially with the sea and Tenby's iconic buildings in the vicinity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The RNLI's Vital Role in Tenby
Visitors often express immense admiration for the bravery and dedication of the volunteer crews who risk their lives to save others. Seeing the lifeboat up close and understanding the commitment involved provides a profound appreciation for the RNLI's mission. Many visitors are moved by the experience, especially if they witness a practice launch or, more rarely, a real call-out.
The station itself is a hub of activity, equipped with modern facilities to ensure the lifeboats are always ready. The presence of the lifeboat station is a reassuring aspect for both locals and the many tourists who visit Tenby, knowing that help is always on hand should they encounter trouble at sea.
A Glimpse into Maritime History
The station has seen several iterations and upgrades over the years. The current, modern facility on the north side of Castle Hill features a slipway that allows for efficient launching of the all-weather lifeboat. This contrasts sharply with the earlier methods, highlighting the advancements in technology and safety protocols within the RNLI.
Exploring these different stations, even the disused ones, offers a tangible connection to the past. It allows visitors to appreciate the enduring commitment to saving lives at sea and the continuous efforts to improve rescue capabilities.
Experiencing a Lifeboat Launch
These launches are a powerful display of skill and coordination. The Tamar class lifeboat, in particular, is a formidable sight as it navigates the slipway and heads out to sea. Visitors often describe the experience as 'thrilling' and 'amazing,' with many capturing videos to remember the moment.
To maximize your chances of seeing a launch, it's recommended to inquire with the station staff about their training schedules. Arriving early to secure a good viewing spot along the promenade or harbour area is also advisable. The sheer scale and power of the lifeboat, combined with the dedication of the crew, make this an unforgettable experience.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit