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Down The Cove
Place guide3 min readUpdated 8 Apr 2026

St Mary's Lifeboat

St Mary's RNLI lifeboat station guards the waters around the Isles of Scilly, some 28 miles from Land's End. Its all-weather Severn class lifeboat, The Whiteheads, continues a remarkable history of bravery spanning around 170 years and 26 awards for gallantry.

St Mary's RNLI Severn class all-weather lifeboat at the station in the Isles of Scilly.
A calm Down The Cove places guide for slower coastal days, family visits and local detail.

Coastal trip

Plan your visit

A simple guide to the feel of the place, how to arrive, and what to keep in mind before you go.

St Mary's Lifeboat is the sort of coastal experience that feels best when you slow down, watch the weather, and let the sea set the pace.

Best forAn active on-the-water experience with a stronger sense of tide, weather and local knowledge.

Wildlife watching, boat trips, sea views and memorable days out.

Getting thereParking, arrival and the practical first steps.

Plan the meeting point, parking and boarding time before setting off, especially in busy school holidays.

What to look forA calmer way to plan with children or visitors.

Best for families who are comfortable around boats, sea air and changing conditions.

Before you goThe small checks that make the day easier.

Coastal trips can change with tide and weather, so confirm details on the day and bring layers even in summer.

The full guide

Read straight through, or use the planning notes above to shape an easier coastal day.

St Mary's RNLI

The Lifeboat

The Whiteheads - Severn Class Lifeboat

Browse coastline guides
More information about the Lifeboats

The Lifeboat Station

St Mary’s all-weather lifeboat is situated on one of over 100 islands in the Isles of Scilly, lying 28 miles from Land’s End. The station has a remarkable history of bravery, with 26 awards for gallantry being presented to the crews over its 170 year history.

More information about St Mary's RNLI Station

Support St Mary's Lifeboat...

Follow St Mary's Lifeboat on TwitterLike St Mary's Lifeboat on FacebookView our coastal safety guidePurchase our PDF Charity Song Book in aid of the RNLI

With thanks to the RNLI for allowing us to use their images and information

Common questions

Where is St Mary's lifeboat station?
St Mary's all-weather lifeboat is based on one of the more than 100 islands of the Isles of Scilly, lying around 28 miles from Land's End.
What lifeboat does St Mary's Lifeboat Station operate?
The station operates The Whiteheads, a Severn class all-weather lifeboat.
How can you support St Mary's RNLI lifeboat station?
The RNLI is a charity that depends on voluntary donations and legacies to fund its lifesaving work. You can support St Mary's lifeboat and the RNLI by donating or fundraising through rnli.org.