Marblehead, Ma.-based Ribcraft has delivered a 16-foot Ribcraft 4.8 to the Greene Volunteer Fire Department (GVFD) in Greene, Me.
The specialized rigid inflatable boat (RIB) “significantly expands the department’s response capabilities while providing a safe platform for rescue missions,” the company said, adding that it had worked with the department to build a boat “that met and exceeded all of the agency’s operational requirements,”
With a dark grey multi-chambered, heavy-duty Hypalon tube, the Ribcraft 4.8 is designed to provide a “durable, stable, and seaworthy platform regardless of sea conditions,” and features an “aggressive deep-V hull and high swept bow, and excellent open deck space for rescue operations, personnel, and equipment.”
The boat also has a forward positioned center console with attached pod seat, an aluminum antenna arch with integrated dive ladder, aluminum transom bollards, a keel guard, and bunk trailer, and is powered by a 50-hp Yamaha outboard and can push it through the water at speeds in excess of 25 mph.
The rigid inflatable Ribcraft 4.8 was funded by a $35,567 grant through the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation, which has raised funds to provide more than 75 rescue boats to first responder organizations across the country.
The GVFD boat was originally designed as a deployable surf rescue craft and gives the agency the capability of reaching on-water areas previously considered inaccessible.
Within days of delivery, the new boat was put to use in a water rescue confirming that “the 4.8 is a reliable and durable boat for the GVFD to continue rescue operations in local surrounding waters,” said Ribcraft.