VESSEL REVIEW | RS178 – Hybrid rescue boat for operation off northern Norway

Norwegian boatbuilder GOT Marine has handed over a new all-aluminium search and rescue (SAR) boat to the Norwegian Society for Sea Rescue (Redningsselskapet; RS).

The vessel, which has been given the designation RS178, is the largest in the RS fleet with a length of 32 metres (100 feet) as well as space for firefighting equipment and compartments for housing rescued survivors.

Durable multi-role platform

GOT Marine said the vessel has been developed around a demanding operational profile. It is capable of switching between SAR, patient transport, towing, firefighting and diving operations, while maintaining high levels of performance, safety and reliability.

On board, the vessel features a dedicated treatment room, a diving room, a diving platform, and deck space for a small fast rescue boat with a dedicated davit. For larger and more complex incidents, the vessel can also serve as an operational command centre.