Galway RNLI has been presented with a new Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat. The new high-powered craft, worth almost €200,000 and bequeathed by a UK benefactor, has all the latest technologies for research and rescue operations on Galway Bay.

The new boat is an upgrade of the Atlantic Class Lifeboat. It is bigger and faster, has the latest in search and rescue equipment, and is better equipped to deal with most adverse weather conditions in the bay, such as fog. The new lifeboat has the added advantage of being able to carry four crew as opposed to three on the old class. And in addition, first aid equipment on board has been upgraded, with space to carry a basket stretcher and a spinal stretcher on board.

Mike Swan, Galway RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager, said: “It’s a great day for Galway. The crew and team will spend the next few weeks getting up to speed and coming to grips with this new rescue craft. This lifeboat has so much more to offer than the earlier model and will make the shores of Galway Bay a much safer place.”