The RNLI started its service in Ilfracombe in 1866 when a boat house was built near the pier at the bottom of Lantern Hill with a slipway nearby.

[1] In 1871 a lifeboat was stationed at Morte Bay near Woolacombe, about 6 miles (10 km) south west of Ilfracombe.

On 13 November 1949, the Richard Silver Oliver (ON 794) was launched to assist the SS Monte Gurugu, which was sinking near Morte Point after losing her rudder in a severe storm.

[1] In a Force 8 gale on 9 September 1984, the Liberty was dragging her anchor just 50 yards (46 m) from the shore when the Lloyds II reached her.

[1] The Shannon-class lifeboat at Ilfracombe has an operating range of 250 nautical miles (460 km) and a top speed of 25 knots (46 km/h).

Adjacent lifeboats are stationed at Appledore to the West, and The Mumbles to the North, along with an ILB at Minehead to the East.