AWARDS 2022 | Best Small SAR Boat – Dauntless – Hart Marine
Remarkably, many SAR boats are not self-righting. This is particularly so in Australia. However, this fine example that will operate in the turbulent waters around Tasmania, is based on a well-proven pilot boat hull that Hart Marine has been building for many years.
"The boat was specifically designed to meet the needs of the Tasmania Police," Hart Marine told Baird Maritime. "It features a high speed planing hull design that enables it to operate in a variety of sea conditions, including rough seas encountered around the coast of Tasmania."
The construction of the boat involved the use of advanced composite materials, making the vessel itself lightweight, strong, and durable. The boat is also equipped with a range of advanced features, including state-of-the-art navigation and communication systems, night vision equipment, a deck crane, and a waterjet propulsion system that enables it to operate in shallow waters.
It is a multi-purpose vessel, capable of performing a wide range of tasks, including search and rescue operations, maritime law enforcement, border protection, and environmental protection.
"This project was completed during the Covid-19 pandemic, so we had many difficulties around procurement and delivery of the vessel to Tasmania. In fact, the vessel was delivered by sea and the crew were taken into quarantine while the vessel was fumigated before use."
Even as the pandemic hit, the builder saw a growing demand for vessels powered by green energy.
"We are very excited about the future opportunities this brings. We are looking at both hybrid diesel-electric propulsion systems and hydrogen-powered systems. As with anything that is new, the regulators will take some time to catch up with these advances and we are looking to work with them to solve any issues that present themselves."
The pandemic continued to affect Hart Marine as it did other businesses even in 2022.
"The marine industry has been affected, resulting in disruptions to global supply chains, restrictions on travel and trade, and changes in consumer behaviour," the builder told Baird Maritime. "These factors may have had an impact on us last year. That said, we have a strong order book with very good clients and the future looks bright."
When asked about the future of the emergency services industry, Hart Marine said safety and operability will become increasingly important aspects.
"The police vessels of the future will need to serve as safe and easy to operate platforms to keep up with high-performance recreational vessels. It's possible that we could integrate more advanced systems and possibly drone technologies."
As regards Australia's workboat industry, Hart Marine believes there will be a greater emphasis on sustainability driven by increasing demand for environment friendly and energy-efficient vessels. This trend is likely to continue with the increasing adoption of hybrid and electric propulsion systems, use of renewable energy sources, and implementation of green technologies.
"Boat builders and operators are also increasingly adopting automation and digitalisation technologies to improve efficiency, safety, and performance. This includes the use of remote monitoring, predictive maintenance, and autonomous vessel technology. Crew welfare and safety will also be of huge importance with more attention paid to ergonomic design, comfort, and safety features on board vessels."
Ports and pilotage providers are also increasingly looking for vessels that are tailored to their specific needs and preferences. Builders therefore need to offer a broader range of customisation options.
"We believe the Australian workboat industry is likely to continue to evolve and adapt to changing market demands and emerging technologies," Hart Marine told Baird Maritime.
For a list of the 2022 "Best Of" award winners, please click here.
