National Coastwatch (NCI) was set up in 1994 to restore a visual watch along UK shores following the final closure of Coastguard coastal watch stations. A tragedy off Cornwall inspired local volunteers to apply to reopen the station at Bass Point on the Lizard and since that time, the charity has continued to grow. At first this was organic growth along the south coast, but latterly by using evidence-based data supplied by MCA with whom it works closely.
The objective of NCI is to assist in the protection and preservation of life at sea.
There are now currently, 60 stations, from Fleetwood in the Northwest to Filey on the East coast. The stations are staffed by over 2,800 qualified volunteers. Volunteers from every walk of life are welcome and all are fully trained including; reading maritime charts, operating VHF radios and interpreting weather and tides. Funds are needed to help continue the charity’s lifesaving work assisting HM Coastguard. This includes the development of new stations and safety cameras, essential maintenance, public safety programmes, equipment and training.
In 2023, NCI participated in over 850 search and rescue incidents, of which 365 were initiated by NCI watchkeepers. Up to September 2024 NCI has been involved in 614 search and rescue incidents, resulting in 293 persons rescued, 111 of whom were rescued at NCI-initiated shouts. These results could not be achieved without the invaluable support of our volunteers, patrons, sponsors and our donors.
NCI Awareness Weekend is celebrated every first Friday in June at its stations to help raise awareness of the charities role in assisting in the protection and preservation of life at sea.
*NCI is funded entirely by public subscription and is also grateful for the support of maritime organisations such as Trinity House and further station openings and refits that are ongoing.
To find out more about the work of the National Coastwatch please follow this link.
If you are interested in volunteering, please follow this link for more information.