Santa To Arrive In Cowes By Historic RNLI Lifeboat

(c) Lynsey Melville photography

Cowes is set for a spectacular festive treat as Santa swaps his sleigh for a lifeboat tomorrow (Saturday 13 December), arriving aboard the historic Sir William Arnold for a day packed with Christmas cheer.

Santa will make his entrance at Trinity Landing at 12pm, where families are invited to gather and give him a warm Island welcome.

He’ll then head to Cowes RNLI Station at 12.30pm for a meet-and-greet, offering children the chance to share their Christmas wishes and enjoy festive games and crafts.

At 1.30pm, Santa will be joined by RNLI mascot Stormy Stan for a cheerful parade along Cowes High Street, spreading Christmas spirit throughout the town.

From 2pm, visitors can explore Santa’s unusual mode of transport — the legendary Sir William Arnold lifeboat, stationed at Town Quay.

The Arun-class vessel served from 1973, taking part in 550 rescue missions and earning its crews 15 RNLI gallantry medals.

All donations on the day will support Cowes RNLI Station, which continues to rely on public generosity to fund its vital lifesaving work.

RNLI lifeboats typically launch over 100 times during the Christmas period, with 119 launches recorded last year.

To support the RNLI’s Christmas Appeal and help keep crews ready for emergencies throughout the festive season, visit the RNLI website.