The National Coastwatch Institution (NCI) is a voluntary organisation set up in 1994 to restore a visual watch along the coast following the closure of many Coastguard stations.

Today 43 National Coastwatch stations currently operate around the coast manned by 1700 trained volunteers at no cost to the public. The Coastwatch stations are equipped with telescopes, radar, telephone and weather instruments as well as up-to-date charts.

The NCI's mission is to assist in saving lives at sea and along the UK coastline with trained watchkeepers maintaining a visual watch, monitoring radio channels, using radar and providing a listening watch in poor visibility. The NCI report directly to the emergency services and are part of the National Search and Rescue Organisation. They are dependant on donations to support running costs, training and to develop new stations.

To join NCI Shorewatch, visit their website. Full training ensures that all volunteers reach the high standard expected by both NCI and the MCA.

Registered Charity no 1045645