Peel Water Police launch new jet boat

Peel Water Police have launched a new vessel.

The 7.6 metre powered jet boat will enable faster response times to incidents in local estuaries, canals, and up to 80 nautical miles of coastline. 

The $484,000 vessel is powered by a 215 kilowatt 6-cylinder Steyr engine, producing 292 horsepower through a Hamilton Jet propulsion system. 

Supplied by Dongara Marine and funded by the State Government, the vessel is extremely manoeuvrable and has a top speed in excess of 30 knots.

Its shallow draft makes it ideal for accessing the upper reaches of local waterways. 

The boat is equipped with high-tech electronics including navigation, radio, and safety equipment.

It can carry six people, and has a folding front door allowing ready access for the recovery and rescue of persons in the water. 

“The new jet boat gives Water Police greater ability to crackdown on illegal activity in our estuaries and further offshore," Police Minister Paul Papalia said.

“Able to unleash close to 300 horsepower from the 6-cylinder diesel engine, this vessel allows officers to rapidly respond to a range of situations, including criminal activity, and marine rescues."

This is the second vessel of its kind added to WA Police Force operational assets.