September 4, 2024
California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s latest patrol vessel, Barracuda. AAM photo.
Today, All American Marine (AAM) from Bellingham, Wash., announced the delivery of a 74’x27.5’ aluminum hydrofoil catamaran patrol boat to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). AAM reports that the vessel, named Barracuda, was specifically designed and constructed to improve CDFW’s capabilities in coastal and marine enforcement, playing an essential role in protecting California’s marine resources for its Law Enforcement Division.
In a press release, AAM highlighted that the vessel is equipped to execute various near coastal and offshore missions, which include extended patrols, commercial gear inspections and recovery, fishery enforcement, and monitoring of marine protected areas.
“This vessel signifies a major enhancement in marine patrol capabilities for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife,” stated Ron Wille, President & COO of All American Marine. “We are privileged to have collaborated with the CDFW to construct this cutting-edge patrol boat, which will strengthen their enforcement capabilities and enable them to fulfill their mission more effectively, particularly with the groundbreaking Rapid RHIB Deployment System from Teknicraft. This feature will simplify operations for the CDFW.”
The vessel incorporates Teknicraft’s dynamic hydrofoil system, which reduces drag, boosts fuel efficiency, and offers exceptional stability and passenger comfort, according to the shipyard. Powered by twin CAT C-18 diesel engines, each generating 800-hp, the boat achieves a cruising speed of 24.5 knots and a top speed of 27 knots. Its fuel capacity is 2000 gallons.
Teknicraft’s RHIB launch and retrieval system in operation. AAM photo.
The vessel is equipped with a Teknicraft Rapid rigid hull inflatable boat (RHIB) launch and retrieval system, which is integrated between the aft sponson. AAM states this system allows for the deployment and retrieval of the RHIB in less than one minute.
The vessel includes a comprehensive Furuno electronics suite. AAM photo.
Additional features consist of a FLIR M364C-LR High-Resolution Thermal Imaging camera with tracking capabilities to help with vessel monitoring tasks, as well as a complete Furuno electronic suite. According to the press release, these technologies can also assist with certain oceanographic and biological research, furthering CDFW’s mission of marine conservation. AAM notes the vessel’s design includes ample deck space for the seizure of illegal traps, accommodations for up to 10 personnel, and the ability to carry extra passengers for day operations.
The vessel is built to United States Coast Guard (USCG) Subchapter T standards.
Sea trials were performed in Bellingham Bay to verify the proper operation of all systems on board, including the Rapid RHIB deployment system. All American asserts that the delivery of this vessel marks a new phase in their dedication to advancing marine technology and supporting conservation initiatives through innovative solutions and strategic collaborations.