1978 Custom RNLI Arun Class 52
Reykjavik, Icelandon the market since 9 days
€145,000
GS
Glenn Spydslaug
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About
Built to Save Lives. Ready for New Adventures.
Soldian is far more than a vessel – she is a proven offshore legend. Originally commissioned by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), christened by the Duke of Kent and funded by Chevron, she represents one of the most respected lifeboat designs ever built.
During her operational career she participated in numerous rescue missions, including one of the most remarkable rescues in RNLI history, helping save 67 lives in Force 8–10 conditions off the Scottish coast. Today, Soldian offers a unique opportunity to own a genuine piece of maritime history while benefiting from exceptional offshore capability, outstanding engineering and remarkable seaworthiness.
Unlike many vessels that simply resemble expedition boats, Soldian was purpose-built to perform when conditions are at their absolute worst.
A True Offshore Expedition Vessel
Designed by the RNLI after decades of offshore rescue experience, the Arun Class became one of the most successful all-weather lifeboat designs ever produced.
At 14.8 metres (52 ft), Soldian combines exceptional strength with long-range capability, self-righting safety and practical functionality. She is equally suited for:
Expedition cruising
Scientific and research operations
Offshore support
Survey work
Adventure tourism
Yacht conversion
Private exploration
Her remarkably practical layout, enormous reserve buoyancy and proven ocean-going abilities make her a vessel unlike almost anything available on today’s market.
Why Soldian Stands Above Other Arun 52s
This particular vessel is widely regarded as one of the finest surviving Arun 52s thanks to numerous desirable factory features and later professional upgrades.
Heavy-Duty Caterpillar Power
Unlike many Arun Class boats fitted with V8 engines, Soldian is equipped with the highly desirable twin Caterpillar D343 inline 6-cylinder diesels, producing 460 hp each.
These renowned commercial engines offer:
approximately 4,000 operating hours
excellent reliability
lower fuel consumption
strong low-end torque
worldwide serviceability
The current owner completed a 500 nautical mile non-stop voyage from Iceland to the Faroe Islands, demonstrating the vessel’s genuine long-range capability.
Indicative fuel consumption is approximately 100–150 litres per hour combined at an economical cruising speed of 10–12 knots, depending on weather and sea conditions.
Maximum speed is approximately 18.5 knots.
Full GRP Construction
One of Soldian’s greatest advantages is her entirely GRP-built hull and superstructure.
Many Arun Class vessels feature aluminium wheelhouses, but Soldian retains elegant moulded GRP lines throughout.
Benefits include:
cleaner appearance
reduced corrosion concerns
smooth exterior finish
easier maintenance
classic RNLI profile
Stainless Steel Fuel Tanks
Another major advantage is the installation of stainless steel fuel tanks, avoiding the corrosion and leakage issues that have affected many older Arun vessels fitted with conventional steel tanks.
Practical Offshore Layout
Everything aboard Soldian was designed for operation in extreme weather.
Unlike later RNLI lifeboats with split-level arrangements and angled doors, the Arun features:
full standing headroom
straight lower deck
straight upper deck
easy movement throughout
simple, robust watertight doors
This practical arrangement makes operating the vessel significantly easier in rough conditions.
Built for the World’s Worst Weather
The Arun Class earned its reputation by operating in conditions where most vessels would seek shelter.
Soldian offers:
self-righting capability
enormous reserve buoyancy
exceptionally strong GRP hull
heavy-duty commercial construction
excellent stability
impressive carrying capacity
The owner reports carrying an additional 1,600 litres of fuel on deck without compromising handling characteristics.
Professionally Upgraded
Originally delivered with a single-phase electrical system, Soldian was later extensively upgraded by the Icelandic Search and Rescue organisation (ICE-SAR).
Upgrades include:
modern three-phase electrical system
inverter/charger installation
modern navigation electronics
autopilot
dual steering stations
upper fly steering position with outstanding 360° visibility
Safety Equipment
Remaining true to her professional rescue heritage, Soldian remains exceptionally well equipped.
Equipment includes:
powerful fire-fighting pump
multiple bilge pumping systems
emergency generator
8-person Viking liferaft (serviced until April 2027)
Viking-serviced fire extinguishers (April 2027)
survival suits
personal flotation devices
comprehensive spare parts inventory
recently installed heavy-duty batteries
The Caterpillar engines have also recently been professionally serviced by an authorised Caterpillar dealer in Iceland.
Commercial Advantages
Soldian is registered and classed as a Search & Rescue vessel with permanent registration under Sierra Leone.
Depending on local regulations and intended operation, this classification may provide operational advantages, including eligibility for duty-free bunkering.
Prospective buyers should verify applicable regulations within their intended area of operation.
A Vessel with Proven Heritage
Few boats can tell a story like Soldian.
She was:
built for the RNLI
christened by the Duke of Kent
originally sponsored by Chevron
operated in frontline rescue service
credited with helping save 67 lives
later operated in Iceland
successfully completed offshore passages in the North Atlantic
This is not simply an old lifeboat.
It is one of the finest surviving examples of one of the world’s most respected rescue vessels.
A Rare Opportunity
Purpose-built expedition vessels with genuine offshore pedigree are becoming increasingly difficult to find.
With her exceptional condition, desirable specification, extensive upgrades and documented rescue history, Soldian represents an outstanding opportunity for anyone seeking an exceptionally capable offshore vessel with character, heritage and proven performance.
Whether retained in her original form or converted into an extraordinary explorer yacht, Soldian is ready for her next chapter.
Technical Specifications
Name: Soldian
Model: Arun Class 52 All-Weather Lifeboat
Builder: William Osborne / Halmatic, United Kingdom
Year Built: 1978
Designer: Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI)
Dimensions
Length Overall (LOA): 14.8 m (52 ft)
Beam: 5.2 m
Draft: 2.7 m
Displacement: Approx. 33 tonnes (32 long tons)
Construction
Hull Material: Full GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic)
Superstructure: Full GRP
Fuel Tanks: Stainless steel
Machinery
Engines: 2 × Caterpillar D343 heavy-duty inline 6-cylinder diesel engines
Power: 2 × 460 hp
Engine Hours: Approx. 4,000 hours
Cruising Speed: 10–12 knots
Maximum Speed: Approx. 18.5 knots
Indicative Fuel Consumption: Approximately 100–150 litres/hour combined at cruising speed (depending on sea conditions)
Electrical & Navigation
Three-phase electrical system
Inverter/charger
Modern navigation electronics
Autopilot
Two steering stations
Upper helm with excellent 360° visibility
Emergency generator
Safety Equipment
Self-righting design
Powerful fire-fighting pump
Multiple bilge pumping systems
8-person Viking liferaft (serviced until April 2027)
Viking-serviced fire extinguishers (valid until April 2027)
Survival suits
Personal flotation devices (PFDs)
Accommodation
Two cabins
Three berths
Full standing headroom
Straight-deck layout for safe movement throughout the vessel
Additional Equipment
Extensive inventory of spare parts
Recently installed heavy-duty batteries
Engines recently serviced by an authorised Caterpillar dealer
Registration & Classification
Flag: Sierra Leone
Classification: Search & Rescue (SAR)
Current Location: Klaksvík, Faroe Islands
Soldian is far more than a vessel – she is a proven offshore legend. Originally commissioned by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), christened by the Duke of Kent and funded by Chevron, she represents one of the most respected lifeboat designs ever built.
During her operational career she participated in numerous rescue missions, including one of the most remarkable rescues in RNLI history, helping save 67 lives in Force 8–10 conditions off the Scottish coast. Today, Soldian offers a unique opportunity to own a genuine piece of maritime history while benefiting from exceptional offshore capability, outstanding engineering and remarkable seaworthiness.
Unlike many vessels that simply resemble expedition boats, Soldian was purpose-built to perform when conditions are at their absolute worst.
A True Offshore Expedition Vessel
Designed by the RNLI after decades of offshore rescue experience, the Arun Class became one of the most successful all-weather lifeboat designs ever produced.
At 14.8 metres (52 ft), Soldian combines exceptional strength with long-range capability, self-righting safety and practical functionality. She is equally suited for:
Expedition cruising
Scientific and research operations
Offshore support
Survey work
Adventure tourism
Yacht conversion
Private exploration
Her remarkably practical layout, enormous reserve buoyancy and proven ocean-going abilities make her a vessel unlike almost anything available on today’s market.
Why Soldian Stands Above Other Arun 52s
This particular vessel is widely regarded as one of the finest surviving Arun 52s thanks to numerous desirable factory features and later professional upgrades.
Heavy-Duty Caterpillar Power
Unlike many Arun Class boats fitted with V8 engines, Soldian is equipped with the highly desirable twin Caterpillar D343 inline 6-cylinder diesels, producing 460 hp each.
These renowned commercial engines offer:
approximately 4,000 operating hours
excellent reliability
lower fuel consumption
strong low-end torque
worldwide serviceability
The current owner completed a 500 nautical mile non-stop voyage from Iceland to the Faroe Islands, demonstrating the vessel’s genuine long-range capability.
Indicative fuel consumption is approximately 100–150 litres per hour combined at an economical cruising speed of 10–12 knots, depending on weather and sea conditions.
Maximum speed is approximately 18.5 knots.
Full GRP Construction
One of Soldian’s greatest advantages is her entirely GRP-built hull and superstructure.
Many Arun Class vessels feature aluminium wheelhouses, but Soldian retains elegant moulded GRP lines throughout.
Benefits include:
cleaner appearance
reduced corrosion concerns
smooth exterior finish
easier maintenance
classic RNLI profile
Stainless Steel Fuel Tanks
Another major advantage is the installation of stainless steel fuel tanks, avoiding the corrosion and leakage issues that have affected many older Arun vessels fitted with conventional steel tanks.
Practical Offshore Layout
Everything aboard Soldian was designed for operation in extreme weather.
Unlike later RNLI lifeboats with split-level arrangements and angled doors, the Arun features:
full standing headroom
straight lower deck
straight upper deck
easy movement throughout
simple, robust watertight doors
This practical arrangement makes operating the vessel significantly easier in rough conditions.
Built for the World’s Worst Weather
The Arun Class earned its reputation by operating in conditions where most vessels would seek shelter.
Soldian offers:
self-righting capability
enormous reserve buoyancy
exceptionally strong GRP hull
heavy-duty commercial construction
excellent stability
impressive carrying capacity
The owner reports carrying an additional 1,600 litres of fuel on deck without compromising handling characteristics.
Professionally Upgraded
Originally delivered with a single-phase electrical system, Soldian was later extensively upgraded by the Icelandic Search and Rescue organisation (ICE-SAR).
Upgrades include:
modern three-phase electrical system
inverter/charger installation
modern navigation electronics
autopilot
dual steering stations
upper fly steering position with outstanding 360° visibility
Safety Equipment
Remaining true to her professional rescue heritage, Soldian remains exceptionally well equipped.
Equipment includes:
powerful fire-fighting pump
multiple bilge pumping systems
emergency generator
8-person Viking liferaft (serviced until April 2027)
Viking-serviced fire extinguishers (April 2027)
survival suits
personal flotation devices
comprehensive spare parts inventory
recently installed heavy-duty batteries
The Caterpillar engines have also recently been professionally serviced by an authorised Caterpillar dealer in Iceland.
Commercial Advantages
Soldian is registered and classed as a Search & Rescue vessel with permanent registration under Sierra Leone.
Depending on local regulations and intended operation, this classification may provide operational advantages, including eligibility for duty-free bunkering.
Prospective buyers should verify applicable regulations within their intended area of operation.
A Vessel with Proven Heritage
Few boats can tell a story like Soldian.
She was:
built for the RNLI
christened by the Duke of Kent
originally sponsored by Chevron
operated in frontline rescue service
credited with helping save 67 lives
later operated in Iceland
successfully completed offshore passages in the North Atlantic
This is not simply an old lifeboat.
It is one of the finest surviving examples of one of the world’s most respected rescue vessels.
A Rare Opportunity
Purpose-built expedition vessels with genuine offshore pedigree are becoming increasingly difficult to find.
With her exceptional condition, desirable specification, extensive upgrades and documented rescue history, Soldian represents an outstanding opportunity for anyone seeking an exceptionally capable offshore vessel with character, heritage and proven performance.
Whether retained in her original form or converted into an extraordinary explorer yacht, Soldian is ready for her next chapter.
Technical Specifications
Name: Soldian
Model: Arun Class 52 All-Weather Lifeboat
Builder: William Osborne / Halmatic, United Kingdom
Year Built: 1978
Designer: Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI)
Dimensions
Length Overall (LOA): 14.8 m (52 ft)
Beam: 5.2 m
Draft: 2.7 m
Displacement: Approx. 33 tonnes (32 long tons)
Construction
Hull Material: Full GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic)
Superstructure: Full GRP
Fuel Tanks: Stainless steel
Machinery
Engines: 2 × Caterpillar D343 heavy-duty inline 6-cylinder diesel engines
Power: 2 × 460 hp
Engine Hours: Approx. 4,000 hours
Cruising Speed: 10–12 knots
Maximum Speed: Approx. 18.5 knots
Indicative Fuel Consumption: Approximately 100–150 litres/hour combined at cruising speed (depending on sea conditions)
Electrical & Navigation
Three-phase electrical system
Inverter/charger
Modern navigation electronics
Autopilot
Two steering stations
Upper helm with excellent 360° visibility
Emergency generator
Safety Equipment
Self-righting design
Powerful fire-fighting pump
Multiple bilge pumping systems
8-person Viking liferaft (serviced until April 2027)
Viking-serviced fire extinguishers (valid until April 2027)
Survival suits
Personal flotation devices (PFDs)
Accommodation
Two cabins
Three berths
Full standing headroom
Straight-deck layout for safe movement throughout the vessel
Additional Equipment
Extensive inventory of spare parts
Recently installed heavy-duty batteries
Engines recently serviced by an authorised Caterpillar dealer
Registration & Classification
Flag: Sierra Leone
Classification: Search & Rescue (SAR)
Current Location: Klaksvík, Faroe Islands
