8-meter (28-foot) RHIB constructed to fulfill Alamitos Bay Marine’s need for a faster boat that could help extend the range of run distance and towing capabilities. Features include twin 300hp Suzuki Outboards, Wing Inflatables collars, a Simrad Yachting navigation system and shock mitigating Ullman dynamics seats. The 9-foot-4-inch beam and deep-V ocean-going hull form keep the boat steady and riding smoothly in trying conditions. The second tow with the commissioned vessel was a 22-hour run in stringent conditions, including five to eight-foot seas and 25kt winds. The harsh weather was no match for the resilient vessel, which kept operators safe and dry as they rode 96 miles offshore in the 180-mile round trip, a franchise record.

8-meter (28-foot) RHIB is one of two vessels in operation for Tow Boat U.S. Stuart, about 40 miles north of Palm Beach. This boat was designed with multiple missions in mind, including assisting disabled boats on the water. This can include performing battery jumps, re-fueling, helping with grounding and more. There have also been instances when operators have worked with law enforcement on smuggling issues and putting out fires. It is also common for the team to assist and escort large yachts (up to 150 feet) in shoaling situations, which can be challenging due to the yacht’s size. Storage is key for a tow boat, and was incorporated into this vessel.