Kvichak Marine Delivers First Six Of 29 Spill Response Boats

Kvichak Marine Industries of Seattle delivered the first of 29 spill response boats being built under a contract with the U.S. Navy. . The vessels — to be deployed worldwide — feature the Marco Filterbelt oil and debris recovery system. Of the six vessels completed, the first went to Port Hueneme, Calif.; the second to La Madalena, Italy; two to the Naval Station San Diego; and one each to the Naval facilities at Oak Harbor and Sand Point.

The rapid-response, shallow-water vessels are designed for use on spills in waterways, bays and harbors. Each measures 28.6 ft. (8.75 m) long, with an 8-ft. (2.4-m) beam and a 13-in. (,3-m) draft. Each is powered by a 135-hp MerCruiser inboard/outboard, which provides a response speed of more than 15 knots.

The remaining 23 vessels in the order are in various stages at Kvichak's Seattle facility, and will continue to be delivered between now and the end of the year.

For more information on Kvichak Circle 198 on Reader Service Card