Sunderland Backsup 'The Lifeboat' Tune in Maritime Context
In the heart of the North East maritime community, Sunderland Marine has shown its unwavering support for the Royal National Lifeboat Institute (RNLI) by sponsoring a new single titled "The Lifeboat." The song, penned by Angus MacPhail, co-founder of Skipinnish and a member of Sunderland Marine, was officially released on August 14th, 2022.
The single, performed by Skipinnish and The Fisherman's Friends, is more than just a piece of music. It serves as a cultural tribute and a fundraising platform for the RNLI, with all proceeds donated to the organisation. This partnership reflects Sunderland Marine's strong maritime roots, given that Sunderland hosts the oldest operational RNLI Lifeboat Station in Great Britain, active for over 200 years.
Craig McBurnie, Head of Sunderland Marine, expressed pride in supporting a project that celebrates the life-saving work of the RNLI and the spirit of the maritime community. The single will be performed live by Skipinnish and The Fisherman's Friends at Skipinnish's headline concert at Glasgow's OVO Hydro on September 27th, 2025.
Sunderland Marine's involvement with the RNLI goes beyond the sponsorship of "The Lifeboat." The company has demonstrated its commitment to sustainability and safety in the maritime sector through previous initiatives such as supporting the Whitby Lobster Hatchery and funding coastal fishing line recycling schemes.
Meanwhile, North P&I Club, the parent company of Sunderland Marine, has introduced a new marine insurance product for larger ocean-going vessels. This new product complements the H&M insurance already available from Sunderland Marine for fishing vessels and other small craft.
The integration of Sunderland Marine's business into North P&I Club was announced six years after the merger of interests between the two entities. The North of England Protecting and Indemnity Association Limited, the parent company of North P&I Club, has been the parent company of Sunderland Marine Insurance Company Limited since June 30, 2020.
While the maritime industry celebrates the release of "The Lifeboat," InterManager, an international trade association for ship and crew managers, is raising awareness of the need for improved lifeboat safety drills. The legislative change that vessels are not required to be manned during drills in maritime legislation has been a cause for concern, with seafarers dying needlessly in lifeboat accidents as a result.
In a world where safety and sustainability are paramount, Sunderland Marine continues to lead the way in the North East maritime community, honouring its rich history while looking towards a brighter, safer future.
