Falmouth RNLI’s New Shannon Class Lifeboat “Decibel Too” Launched

Published On: 2 May 2025Last Updated: 2 May 2025By CornishStuff

📷 Falmouths new Shannon being launched for the first time - Credit: RNLI/Charis Jefferson

Falmouth RNLI’s brand-new Shannon class lifeboat has officially taken to the water following a traditional launch ceremony held at the RNLI All-weather Lifeboat Centre (ALC) in Poole, Dorset last Tuesday (22nd April).

Bell Rings to Mark New Chapter

The moment marked the completion of the lifeboat’s build, celebrated with the ringing of eight bells — a maritime tradition symbolising the end of one watch and the start of another.

John Deas, RNLI Head of Production, led the proceedings, while Rob Aggas, RNLI Senior Operations Manager (Fleet), and Dan Guy, RNLI Fleet staff coxswain, performed the bell ringing before the lifeboat was carefully lowered into the water for the first time.

Trials Underway Before Arrival in Falmouth

Now afloat, “Decibel Too” will undergo a series of tests, checks and sea trials in Poole to ensure she is fully ready for service. The new lifeboat is expected to arrive at Falmouth in June, where it will officially take its place at the station.

📷Volunteers from Falmouth RNLI who travelled to Poole for the Bell ringing ceremony - Credit: RNLI/Charis Jefferson

A Gift That Will Save Lives

The impressive new lifeboat has been made possible thanks to a generous gift left in the will of Richard Coleman. The donation was administered by his friend Tony Vlasto and the RNLI City of London Committee. Richard, a passionate yachtsman and former Royal Navy serviceman, had a lifelong respect for the RNLI’s work.

Tony, members of the City of London Committee, and Falmouth RNLI volunteers were present at the launch to witness the special moment.

Preparing for the Future

Dave Nicoll, RNLI Fundraising and Partnerships Lead and volunteer Deputy 2nd Coxswain at Falmouth RNLI, accepted the new lifeboat on behalf of the station. Speaking after the launch, Dave said:

“It was a real honour to join my fellow volunteers representing all aspects of the RNLI’s work in Falmouth in being invited to Poole to the All-weather Lifeboat Centre to see our new lifeboat being lowered into the water for the first time.

“It’s been a busy year for the station. The lifeboat crew committed to many hours of intensive training and familiarisation to operate a Shannon class lifeboat and successfully passed out by the time the Severn class lifeboat departed from Falmouth at the end of January.

“Our visits and shop teams have also undertaken training to learn about the new class of lifeboat, whilst continuing to welcome visitors to the station and answer questions from members of the public.

“The whole station is looking forward to the arrival of their new and permanent Shannon lifeboat this summer and are extremely honoured with the significance behind her name. It’s a huge privilege that we can continue saving lives in a new lifeboat named in memory of Mr Coleman.”

The arrival of “Decibel Too” will mark a significant milestone for Falmouth RNLI and ensures volunteer crews will be equipped to continue their vital lifesaving work along Cornwall’s coast for many years to come.