The station has two D Class lifeboats Ethel Royal D527 &  Pride of London Foresters  D633, one launched from the inshore boathouse via a slipway which provides rapid response when the tide has covered the mudflats and the other from the boathouse at the end of the Pier which can be launched at any state of the tide.

STOP PRESS - Feb 2005: Southend take delivery of D487 replacement. Once again financed by the Ancient Order of Foresters, D633 is capable of 25 knots and has an electric start, inversion proofed 50hp outboard and improved bow stowage compartment. Initial exercises have shown this replacement boat to be in a different class in terms of pace and handling. Full specifications to follow.

These boats have proved invaluable for accessing casualties in shallow water, gut ways and confined areas such as the pier and Shoebury boom.