The new 8.0 metre Zodiacs have been chosen to replace earlier models that, in some cases, have been in service with the Canadian Coastguard for up to 17 years. In that time the boat has established a reputation for dependable seaworthiness by demonstrating an ability to work in 5 metre swells and, being powered by two 175 horse power outboards, the Zodiac 753 RIB has the ability to reach speeds up to 48 knots. The CCG operates its rescue boats with a crew of three which gives them the capacity to carry up to nine survivors.
Zodiac Hurricane Technologies enjoys a close relationship with the Canadian Coast Guard and has worked with it to develop a specification that meets its needs. The 753 model is a Transport Canada, IMO SOLAS approved rescue boat. By refining the specifications of the new boats, Zodiac has been able to supply new RIBS that provide the rugged seaworthiness and features that the CCG has become used-to.
Customisation of the new boats has included refining their ergonomics to meet the operational needs of the Coast Guard crews. Improvements include the development of a new generation of Zodiac’s 3-person fibreglass Delta console with 2-person wide aft navigation/communications console and Shockwave S2 shock reducing seating. The boats will be delivered with navigation/communications systems installed that include either Raymarine or Garmin equipment. The suites include radar, chart plotter, GPS, VHF radios and echo sounder. The Canadian Coast Guard also adds equipment specific to its search and rescue and other missions.
The full quota of the new Zodiacs will be distributed among Canadian Coast Guard stations and ready for operation in Spring 2010.
Zodiac Hurricane Technologies is part of the Zodiac Marine & Pool Group. This is a respected world leader in the design and manufacture of inflatable boats and survival equipment. It operates in three sectors that provide a comprehensive service to their specialised markets. Zodiac SOLAS Division supplies life rafts for merchant ships, ferries, and cruise ships and complete rescue systems combining escape slides and rafts. The Zodiac Military and Professional (MilPro) Sector supplies inflatable and semi rigid crafts for professional applications such as fire teams and offshore users and for military applications such as armed forces and special forces. Inflatable and semi-rigid craft of the Zodiac Recreational Sector Sector are distributed under the Zodiac®, Bombard®, Avon® brands.
-ENDS-
Commercial enquiries contact:
Lucie Ruivo
Zodiac International
Military & Professional Marine Division
1 Quai de Grenelle, 75015 Paris, France
Tel + 33 1 76 76 71 90
Email : info.milpro@
Web site www.zodiacmilpro.com
