Lifeboat launches after report of person in water near Brighton Palace Pier

Brighton RNLI Lifeboat Station launched at 4.30pm on Friday 9 October 2026 following reports of a person in the water near Brighton Palace Pier, drifting towards Brighton Marina.

Brighton RNLI Lifeboat Station said it launched after reports that a person was in the water close to Brighton Palace Pier and was drifting towards Brighton Marina.

By the time the lifeboat crew arrived, the person had already returned to shore.

The team described the conditions at the time as rough. "Conditions were rough, with strong westerly winds," the team said in a post on X.

Brighton Palace Pier

Brighton Palace Pier, also known as Brighton Pier, is a Grade II* listed pleasure pier in the centre of Brighton, opposite the Old Steine. It opened in 1899 as the third pier built in the city, after the Royal Suspension Chain Pier and the West Pier, and is now the only one still in operation.

It is run by the Brighton Pier Group. (Wikipedia)

Safety in open water

AdventureSmart UK advises people planning time near water or outdoors to check the weather forecast and tides in advance, think about the gear they need and be honest about their own skills and experience before setting off. It also advises people to know how and when to get help if conditions change. (adventuresmart.uk)

Staying safe

Anyone who sees someone in difficulty in the water is advised to call 999 and ask for the coastguard, rather than entering the water themselves. People spending time near the coast are encouraged to check forecasts and tide times before setting out, and to carry suitable equipment, particularly as weather can change quickly in autumn and winter. (adventuresmart.uk)

Read Brighton RNLI Lifeboat Station’s original post on X.

Sources

1. Brighton RNLI Lifeboat Station call-out post Brighton RNLI Lifeboat Station
2. Brighton Palace Pier Wikipedia
3. AdventureSmart UK has advice on planning a safe day outdoors. adventuresmart.uk