Written by
Marine Log Staff
Photo: All American Marine
All American Marine (AAM), based in Bellingham, Washington, has delivered a cutting-edge hydrofoil catamaran patrol boat measuring 74 by 27.5 feet, commissioned in 2022 by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW).
Designed to bolster CDFW’s coastal and marine law enforcement capabilities, the vessel will undertake multi-day patrols, inspect and recover commercial gear, enforce fisheries regulations, and patrol marine protected areas. Moreover, it is tailored to enhance operational effectiveness in adverse sea conditions and conduct dive missions.
The boat incorporates Teknicraft’s innovative dynamic hydrofoil system to reduce drag, boost fuel efficiency, and provide exceptional stability and comfort for passengers.
Equipped with twin Cat C-18 diesel engines, each producing 800 horsepower, the boat reached a cruise speed of 24.5 knots while fully laden during trials, achieving a maximum speed of 27 knots. Its substantial 2,000-gallon fuel capacity ensures an extended operational range and endurance essential for lengthy missions.
Photo: AAM
A notable feature of the new CDFW vessel is the Teknicraft rapid RHIB launching and retrieval system situated between the rear sponsons. This reliable system enhances safety and cuts the time and manpower needed to deploy the vessel’s rigid hull inflatable boat, allowing for deployment and retrieval in less than one minute.
Other features include an extensive advanced electronics array, which comprises a FLIR M364C-LR high-resolution thermal imaging camera with tracking capabilities to aid in monitoring vessels and identifying violators along the California coastline.
Fitted with cutting-edge navigation, communication, and enforcement technology, the vessel boasts advanced systems that feature a modern suite of Furuno electronic equipment. These technologies also support certain oceanographic and biological research, advancing CDFW’s marine conservation goals.
The vessel’s design allocates ample deck space for the seizure of illegal traps, provides comfortable accommodations for up to 10 personnel, and has the capacity to accommodate additional passengers for day operations.
It is constructed to meet United States Coast Guard (USCG) Subchapter T standards.
“This vessel marks a significant enhancement in marine patrol capabilities for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife,” stated Ron Wille, president and COO of All American Marine. “We are privileged to have collaborated with CDFW to create this innovative patrol boat, which will improve their enforcement capabilities and allow them to more effectively fulfill their mission, particularly with the groundbreaking rapid RHIB deployment system from Teknicraft. This advancement will optimize CDFW operations.”
The vessel underwent thorough sea trials in Bellingham Bay to confirm the proper operation of all onboard systems, including the rapid RHIB deployment feature.
Photo: AAM