RNLI 200

2024 sees the RNLI celebrate 200 years of lifesaving - started right here in the Isle of Man. We’ve teamed up with the RNLI to showcase their amazing history in the Isle of Man and celebrate their work in saving lives for generations to come. Visit a station, celebrate at a whole host of events, and find out more about their rich Manx history below.

Did you know you can visit the RNLI in the Isle of Man?

To celebrate RNLI 200, Visit Isle of Man has teamed up with the RNLI to create a new lifesaving locations map, showcasing the stations shops and heritage locations on the Island. Find out how you can see the RNLI in action, shop to save lives and even follow the heritage QR code trail around the Island. Find out more here.

“On 10 October, 1822, HMS Vigilant foundered on St Mary’s Rock in Douglas Bay on the Isle of Man. A bystander urged others to help him row out to rescue those in peril. That man was Sir William Hillary. And, as a result of this and further shipwrecks, he went on to form what we know today as the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.”

Since 1824, the RNLI has pioneered developments in lifesaving at sea. And their lifesavers have shown unfailing courage and selflessness. Delve into the history of the RNLI, founded by Douglas’ Sir William Hilary, and discover key events and innovations in lifesaving history. View the RNLI timeline here.

• Be a Lifesaver: Find out how you can be part of RNLI 200 and fuel lifesaving for the future.

• RNLI 200: What's on? Join us in celebration and commemoration.

Listen to the podcasts: As the RNLI commemorates and celebrates two centuries of lifesaving, you can hear 200 voices tell true tales of how their lives have been touched by the charity - and how they have played a part.

Episode 1 - Launching an Institution: Edd Christian (Douglas Coxwain): In 1824, Sir William Hillary founded what is now the RNLI. Douglas’ Coxswain Edd Christian takes us back to where it all started.

• Douglas Lifeboat Station

• Peel Lifeboat Station

• Ramsey Lifeboat Station

• Port Erin Lifeboat Station

• Port St Mary Lifeboat Station

Raise a glass to 200 years of lifesaving with Fynoderee Manx Dry Gin RNLI Edition.

RNLI 200 Stamp Collection by Isle of Man Post Office.