The Canadian Lifeboat Institution (CLI) operates two search and rescue lifeboats on the Fraser River and the Strait of Georgia. The Delta Lifeboat is one of these vessels and is 52’ long and has a proud history of assisting mariners in distress.

Built in Pearl Harbor in 1944 by the US Navy, she served on two US aircraft carriers and is based in Ladner. The Delta Lifeboat performs the duty of medical vessel for the Classic Boat Festival and works in conjunction with volunteers from St. John Ambulance. The CLI and its all volunteer crews serve with no direct government financial assistance but choose to conduct their SAR role independently, while remaining a part of “Team SAR”. Both vessels can be often seen escorting ahead of commercial vessels during commercial and native fisheries to ensure clear, safe passage. Help is given to fishing vessels that require it. Operations are closely co-ordinated with their maritime partners – D.FO. CanadianCoast Guard, Canadian Coast Radio, River Pilots and commercial shipping companies.