The first of a new, improved generation of Port of London Authority (PLA) patrol launch has arrived on the Thames. The new launch, Lambeth, is one of a fleet of five specially-designed catamarans being introduced in a $2.8b PLA investment, to replace seven heavier, older vessels. At initial trials, the new vessel has already shown the expected benefits of substantially reduced exhaust emissions, lower fuel consumption and smaller wash waves. The PLA also expects to benefit from easier maintenance and operation, as the single design replaces seven different vessels.