(BELLINGHAM, Wash.) — All American Marine (AAM) has signed a contract to construct a 65-foot catamaran for the Los Angeles Port Police. Teknicraft Design of Auckland, New Zealand, designed the dive and patrol vessel, which represents a significant step forward in maritime law enforcement capabilities for the port police.
Measuring 65 by 24 feet, the aluminum catamaran is specifically designed to enhance the operational efficiency and effectiveness of the LA Port Police and will add operational flexibility to its existing fleet. It will employ the latest hull design features from Teknicraft, providing improvements in fuel efficiency and vessel performance beyond what was initially achieved with the All American Marine dive vessel delivered in 2012 to the port police.
The new vessel is engineered to operate in challenging conditions along the Southern California coast, in both inland and nearshore waters. With the inclusion of the Teknicraft “eco-bow” design, the patrol vessel can maintain ride stability in exposed waters, with a cruising speed of 20 knots and a maximum speed of approximately 25 knots.
“We are honored to have been selected by the LA Port Police for this vital project,” said Ron Wille, president and chief operating officer of All American Marine. “Our team is dedicated to delivering another vessel that meets the highest standards of performance, safety, and innovation. This contract underscores our commitment to supporting law enforcement agencies with advanced maritime solutions.”
The vessel is designed to meet U.S. Coast Guard Subchapter T regulations, ensuring the highest levels of safety and compliance. Key features include twin Cummins QSM11-715 engines with fixed-pitch propellers, providing a combined power output of 705 hp at 2,500 rpm. The catamaran will also be equipped with a range of sophisticated systems and equipment:
• Advanced navigation and communication systems: The helm station will be outfitted with the latest navigation and communication technology to ensure precise and reliable operations.
• Enhanced safety features: The vessel will be fitted with comprehensive fire suppression systems, life-saving equipment, and robust structural integrity to ensure the safety of the crew and passengers.
• Specialized dive operations equipment: The vessel will include an A-frame for deploying and retrieving advanced sonar and remotely controlled underwater vehicles, along with a dive compressor foundation and storage solutions for diving gear.
“Our primary mission is to ensure the safety and security of the Port of Los Angeles, protecting the people and maritime environment in and around the port,” said Deputy Executive Director Tom Gazsi, who also serves as chief of public safety and emergency management as well as chief of port police. “The innovative features of this vessel will significantly enhance our operational capabilities.”
The vessel will be constructed at All American’s facilities in Bellingham, Wash., with delivery to the LA Port Police dock in Los Angeles, Calif., at an unannounced date. The project will involve extensive sea trials and rigorous testing to ensure all systems and components meet the specified performance criteria.
– All American Marine
