It was founded at the end of the 19th century (1881) to provide assistance and support to the impoverished fishing communities around the coasts of Britain.

The Mission Centres provide showers, washing machines, accommodation, food, companionship and recreational activities (such as snooker tables and internet access).

During both the First and Second World Wars, the Fishermen's Mission provided help to the merchant marine sailors and fisherman recruited to serve on the convoys, undertook mine sweeping patrols, and continued to fish despite the dangers of aerial attack.

She is a cruising hospital, a place of worship, a tobacco shop, a clothing establishment, a free library, a club-room, an hotel, and a recreation ground.

If a smacksman is sick or injured, he will be fetched on board and receive skilled attention until he is better; if he wants to attend service and hoists a signal to indicate his wish, the Mission boat will call for him".