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Built for the Caister Volunteer Lifeboat Service to operate off England's bleak east coast, this fast, aluminium, self-righting rigid inflatable boat is a fine example of the work of south-coast builder Diverse Marine. The builder has been refining their rugged all-weather boats for forty years and that certainly shows in this impressive example.
"The vessel is special because it embodies the culmination of over three decades of SAR boat design evolution," Ben Colman, Director of Diverse Marine, told Baird Maritime. "It features a self-righting design, ensuring crew safety in the most challenging conditions. Its construction combines an aluminium hull with a resiliently mounted FRP wheelhouse, reducing noise and vibration for the crew."
He added that the vessel is equipped with state-of-the-art navigation and communication systems, and its twin engines paired with waterjets provide exceptional speed and manoeuvrability. The resulting combination of safety, comfort, and advanced technology makes CVLS 45-01 a remarkable SAR boat.
"The construction of the boat came with its own set of challenges, particularly in meeting the stringent safety and performance requirements essential for this type of boat. Ensuring the self-righting capability and integrating the advanced waterjet control system required precise engineering and rigorous testing. One of the valuable lessons we learned was the importance of iterative testing and feedback loops."
Colman also identified regular consultations with the operators as a key factor in helping Diverse Marine fine-tune the design and its functionalities to meet the client's specific needs.
"This project underscored the significance of user-centred design and the need for adaptability in the face of complex engineering demands."
Colman remarked that 2023 was a remarkable year for Diverse Marine, as indicated by several projects being completed and new projects being awarded. Compared to the past few years, there has been a steady increase in demand for innovative and sustainable workboat solutions, and in his view, the successful launch of vessels like CVLS 45-01 has helped cement the company's reputation in the industry.
"We are optimistic about the future, as the push for greener, more efficient maritime solutions aligns perfectly with our expertise," he told Baird Maritime. "The commitment from our clients and partners to invest in cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices gives us great confidence moving forward."
For Colman, the British workboat industry is poised for growth, driven by the expanding offshore wind sector and increasing demand for sustainable maritime solutions. Key trends will include the development of eco-friendly propulsion systems, such as electric and hydrogen fuel cells, and the integration of smart technologies for enhanced vessel performance and safety.
"We are committed to staying at the forefront of these advancements," said Colman. "Our business strategy involves continuous investment in research and development, collaboration with innovative technology partners, and upskilling our workforce to ensure we can meet and exceed expectations."
He said that, through these steps, Diverse Marine aims to provide next-generation workboats that align with the changing needs of clients and the environment.
