Weekly Photo Challenge: Launch

Mersey class lifeboats are all-weather lifeboats operated by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) from stations around the coasts of Great Britain and Ireland. The Mersey is designed to be launched from a carriage, but can also lie afloat or be slipway launched when required. Its propellers are fully protected from damage when launching or in shallow water by partial tunnels and two bilge keels. Its low height can be further reduced by collapsing its mast and aerials which then allows it to be stored in a boathouse. A sealed cabin gives it a self-righting ability.

The class name comes from the River Mersey which flows into the Irish Sea in north west England.

Power comes from two Caterpillar 285hp turbo-charged engines. It carries 1,110 litres (290 USgal) of fuel to give it a range of 240 nautical miles (440 km). It has a crew of six and can carry an X Boat inflatable which it can deploy at sea. Its survivor compartment can carry 43 people, but more than 21 prevents self-righting should the boat capsize.

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