Littlehampton, England – A routine training exercise became an unforgettable encounter for Littlehampton RNLI volunteers when a pod of dolphins surrounded their lifeboat off the coast on Thursday, July 9.

Helm Andy Harris and crew members Sophie Collins, Ian Kirkham, and Mark Jordan were taking part in their regular Thursday evening training exercise aboard the Renee Sherman lifeboat when they spotted dolphins ahead.

The crew kept a slow and steady course as the dolphins approached the boat. The pod, which included a mother and calf, stayed with the lifeboat for around 10 minutes, jumping from the calm sea and playing in the boat’s wake.

Sophie Collins, who joined Littlehampton RNLI in August 2024 and recently passed out as crew, described the encounter as an incredible moment.

“It was literally the best day of my life. It was such a peaceful sight and the perfect way to end our evening training session.”

Andy Harris, who has volunteered with Littlehampton RNLI since 1996, said the dolphins came to look at the boat, jumped out of the water, and followed the crew for part of the journey home.

Ian Kirkham said it was impressive to watch the dolphins ride the bow wave and wake of the boat while the crew continued their lookout duties.

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