Solent Rescue One

Solent Rescue currently uses a Pacific 22 RIB built in 1983 by Halmatic. This vessel was formerly owned by the Royal Navy.

Solent Rescue has converted the craft so that it can be used more effectively for rescue operations.

The craft is propelled through the water using a single Castoldi 238 water jet.

The water jet is more effective in shallow water and much safer when recovering people, as all moving parts are situated away from potential casualties.

Weighing nearly two ton the craft needs a large engine so the Iveco 250 hp Turbo Diesel was the answer and it powers the Pacific 22 to speeds of up to 32 knots.

Solent Rescue has also installed a Garmin 128 GPS and Autohelm 600 Plotter, so that the craft can be used in all weathers up to a force eight gale for search and rescue. All of the following equipment is stored on the boat when operational, first aid kit, blankets, spare life jackets, charts, divers knife, 50ft tow line, spring lines, bolt cutters, flash lights, flares, fire extinguisher and spare anchor and line.