Fort Myers Beach Station News

The US Coast Guard's Fort Myers Beach station received a 33 foot, special purpose law enforcement craft. The boat purchase is part of a joint program with the Department of Homeland Security. The craft is a 33-foot aluminum mono-hull with a 10-ft. beam and foam collar. It is powered by three 275-hp engines capable of speeds in excess of 50 knots and is capable of operating more than 30 miles from shore. It is equipped with a state-of-the-art navigation system and secure communications capability. Coast Guard crews will receive three days of boat familiarization training conducted by SAFE Boats International, as well as shore-based non-compliant vessel pursuit tactics training conducted by CBP. This is the first 33-ft. SPC-LE Sector St. Petersburg has received.