Louisiana-based shipbuilder Metal Shark has delivered a 75’ multipurpose port security vessel custom built for the Port of South Louisiana, the company said in its press release.
Based on Metal Shark’s Endurance-class catamaran design, this 75’ welded aluminum vessel incorporates sophisticated technology to support fire rescue missions, Command and Control (C2) operations, and around-the-clock port security efforts at the largest tonnage port in the western hemisphere.
Twin Cat C-18 diesel engines in a conventional straight-shaft inboard configuration propel the 75 Endurance’s stable and efficient catamaran hull to cruising speeds of 25 knots while yielding a nominal operating range of over 500 miles.
For firefighting, two dedicated drive engines channel up to 6,000 total gallons per minute through an oversized water main where electronic valves divert water to three radio frequency-controlled monitors. Four additional 2.5” hydrant connections and a 400-gallon foam reservoir provide maximum flexibility across the full spectrum of firefighting needs.
With a spacious pilothouse offering 360-visibility and comfortable belowdecks quarters offering bunking capacity for six or more crew members, the 75 Endurance is fully equipped to stay on station for extended periods. A state of the art Command and Control suite facilitiates multi-agency coordination during emergency response events, and a positive-pressure Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and high-yield Explosive (CBRNE) ventilation system affords ample crew protection in disaster response situations.
A product of Metal Shark’s Franklin, Louisiana shipyard, the 75’ Endurance can be custom-configured to suit a wide range of mission profiles. Metal Shark offers the vessel with a wide range of power and propulsion systems, including conventional inboards, water jets and pods, to meet various performance requirements. Virtually every vessel feature, from firefighting equipment and capacity, onboard systems, general arrangement, berth capacity, etc. can be adapted to suit the needs of individual customers and agencies. In addition to port security and fire rescue, the 75 Endurance may be configured for dive support, law enforcement, defense, and numerous commercial markets. Endurance-class vessels are available from 45’ and up.
Established in 1986, Gravois Aluminum Boats LLC, and its government/commercial boat entity Metal Shark Boats are leading suppliers of custom boats for defense, law enforcement, and commercial entities. Key customers include the United States Coast Guard, Navy, Air Force, Army, foreign militaries, port operators and pilot associations, fire departments, and commercial entities worldwide. From its two fully self-contained facilities in South Louisiana, Metal Shark produces a wide range of custom monohull and catamaran center console and pilothouse patrol boats, fireboats, pilot boats, passenger vessels, and other specialty vessels up to 250’.