Yet again illustrating the staggering versatility of the Vigo-based shipyard Armon, this very impressive aluminium craft is the last in a series of five built for Spain's famed sea rescue organisation Salvamento Maritimo. She and her sisters operate in all kinds of weather right around the lengthy Spanish coast. At 40 metres LOA and with a speed of 36 knots these vessels are capable of doing wonderful things when required.
The vessel can operate anywhere along the entire coastline of Spain to ensure better SAR coverage and thus help minimise response times during emergencies. This gives it an improvement in operational capability, as many of the other vessels in the owner's fleet have specific limited areas of responsibility.
The boat can reach speeds of up to 30 knots, allowing for quicker responses. Only minimal noise and vibrations are generated when underway, thus helping reduce the occupants' fatigue. Enhancing the boat's multi-mission capability are a water purification plant, a wastewater treatment plant, a towing hook, space for a smaller rescue boat, an enclosed patient treatment area, and a hydraulically operated MOB recovery net.
The wheelhouse is ergonomically laid out and is configured to enable the crew to directly oversee operations on the aft deck such as the rescue of survivors from the water.The new SAR boat's design has also been proven in other roles, including those in police service.
