South Africa’s National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) commissioned Two Oceans Marine Manufacturing to build their new fleet of nine Class 1 Offshore Rescue Craft
The ORC 140 is designed by Pantocarene Naval architects, who came up with the idea for this type of vessel some 20 years ago that would operate in rough sea conditions. Over the years the design has been improved to produce the current ORC 140 for NSRI. Numerous Pilot vessels and SAR vessels have been built to this design and in operation.
The new self-righting and purpose-built rescue vessel is designed for rescue operations in extreme conditions. At 14.8 m long and 4.8 m wide, it can be deployed on rescue missions as far as 50 nautical miles (over 92km) from land and has an expected lifespan of at least 40 years.
The new world class search and rescue vessels will accommodate six volunteer rescuers on board, in shock mitigating seats to allow for high-speed operation in difficult sea conditions and has the ability to carry up to 23 survivors.
With crew and casualty safety a top priority, the new rescue boats will have the latest electronic navigation and communication equipment. They are also self-righting, which provides increased safety for those on board.
Photo credits: Simon MacDonnell, the NSRI and Jean Tresfon
Read the feature in the Royal Institute of Naval Architect’s Ship and Boat International Publication
