Freshwater Independent Lifeboat Station

Freshwater Independent Lifeboat Station stands beside Freshwater Bay on the west coast of the Isle of Wight. The boathouse is home to a rescue service run by local volunteers, with a shop where you can browse gifts, souvenirs and lifeboat merchandise. Call in for a drink when the shop is open, or include it in a visit to the bay. Sales help support the independent lifeboat.

Local people founded the service in 1972. Its volunteers operate two lifeboats and remain on call throughout the year. Their work includes helping boats in difficulty, searching for people in distress and supporting coastal rescues. The charity depends on donations, local sponsors and community fundraising to keep that work going. Crew members and ground crew handle the operational side, while shop volunteers and fundraisers help pay for equipment and running costs.

The station's address is The Boathouse, Freshwater Bay, PO40 9RA, south of Freshwater village. If you're coming down for a browse, check the shop's current opening details before making a special journey. Contact the charity on 01983 755090 for questions about visiting the shop or the working station, including any access arrangements you need. You can combine a stop here with time beside the bay.