The Trent class lifeboat was one of the first ‘hard chine’ hull design for the RNLI. She has the same geometric hull shape as the Severn class and has a sheerline that sweeps down for ease of survivor recovery. In the Trent, the engine room is aft but space limitations led to a novel approach in which one of the twin MAN diesel engines is turned around, driving the propeller in a conventional manner, while the other works through a 'V' drive. Her propellers and rudders lie in partial tunnels set into the hull that, along with the two bilge keels, provide excellent protection from damage in shallow water. The comprehensive electronics include VHF and MF radios with DSC functionality, VHF direction finder, DGPS with electronic chart system and radar. The Trent class carries a small XP boat, an inflatable daughter boat with a 5hp outboard engine capable of 6 knots. This small craft is used to access areas where the lifeboat cannot reach. Comprehensive first aid equipment includes stretchers, oxygen and Entonox. Other equipment includes a portable salvage pump carried in a watertight container.
