FunAir, the industry leader in superyacht inflatables, is proud to announce a new strategic partnership with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI). This collaboration has led to the development of the Rescue SeaStairs, an adaptation of FunAir’s patented SeaStairs technology for superyachts, which has been modified for critical maritime rescue operations.
Innovation for greater good
FunAir’s SeaStairs, originally designed to enhance accessibility on superyachts, have been meticulously re-engineered to meet the rigorous demands of maritime rescue scenarios. This initiative represents a significant advancement in water rescue capabilities, leveraging FunAir’s expertise in inflatable technology and the RNLI’s extensive experience in life-saving operations at sea.
John Courtney, Managing Director of FunAir, comments: “We design inflatables to enhance the superyacht experience, solving issues for captains, crew, and guests. Our collaboration with the RNLI highlights our commitment to extending the reach of our innovations beyond the luxury sector. By adapting our SeaStair technology, we have created a tool that significantly enhances the efficiency of water rescue operations - a prime example of how innovations can spark further ideas to address wider maritime problems.”
A game-changer in rescue
The Rescue SeaStairs have been developed through extensive testing and refinement. They are tailored to the specific requirements of RNLI crews and constructed for life-saving operations to help get people out of the water far quicker than other means. The specialised equipment is designed to reduce the risk for both the rescuers and those in distress.
Key features of the Rescue SeaStairs include quick deployment for emergencies, a non-slip surface for enhanced safety, accessibility for all ages and abilities, and an efficient design that allows for rapid recovery of large numbers of people from the water.
Simon Ling, Head of Lifeboats at RNLI, called the Rescue SeaStairs a “game-changing piece of lifesaving equipment.” He adds: “It enables our crews to recover large numbers of people from the water at high speed—which in a rescue situation could be the difference between life and death.”
Since the RNLI began using the Rescue SeaStairs, many lives have been saved. In a recent rescue, over 40 lives were saved in a single operation, highlighting the critical impact of this equipment.
“We are deeply honoured to contribute to the RNLI’s life-saving work and are extremely proud to see how the superyacht world can serve the greater maritime communities and our ability to adapt products for these crucial needs,” adds Courtney.
Implementation and the future
The Rescue SeaStairs are currently being deployed across the UK as essential life-saving equipment and are now available to coastguards, life-saving teams, and lifeboat associations worldwide. Applications can also include assisting people from sinking vessels, unseaworthy boats, and ferry accidents.
This collaboration between FunAir and the RNLI demonstrates the positive impact that can occur when luxury marine innovation meets humanitarian needs, setting new benchmarks for safety at sea.
