The UK’s Devon & Cornwall Police have officially taken delivery of Neptune, a powerful 11.5-metre twin-hull catamaran custom-built by RS Marine Group’s Cheetah Marine.
Unveiled during a handover event in Plymouth, 2nd October 2025, the bespoke 11.5m twin-hull catamaran is designed to support a wide range of maritime law enforcement. The vessel forms part of the Home Office’s programme to combat serious and organised crime, providing critical support to the force’s Marine Policing and Underwater Search Unit.
Chief Constable James Vaughan emphasised the Neptune’s role as an important step forward in protecting the coastline and local communities. “The boat will give us much greater visibility on the water, and help to deter helping all manner of anti-social behaviour and criminality including organised immigration crime. That could be anything from the theft of lobster pots right up to counter-terrorism operations and the activities of organised criminal gangs smuggling drugs or people.”
The bespoke power catamaran was custom designed with advanced features. Powered by twin 350hp Yamaha outboard engines, Neptune offers exceptional speed and fuel efficiency, reaching top speeds of over 40 knots. Equipped with Yamaha’s advanced Helm Master EX system, it delivers unmatched manoeuvrability – critical in high-stakes, often unpredictable operational environments.
The Cheetah powercat meets Police Boat Code Category B and MCA Category 2 standards, with a minimum range of 180 nautical miles and seating for up to 10 personnel. Designed for multi-role deployment, it supports; routine and high-risk marine patrols, diving operations and underwater search, deployment of ROVs (remotely operated underwater vehicles).
Fitted with state-of-the-art marine electronics, Neptune includes a long-range stabilised infra-red HD camera and underwater drone capabilities to enhance search and evidence-gathering operations. It is larger and more stable than previous boats, allowing the force to stay at sea longer and operate more safely in adverse weather and extreme conditions.
Bas Edmonds, Managing Director at Cheetah Marine, noted the collaborative design process behind Neptune: “We are immensely proud to hand over this catamaran to Devon & Cornwall Police. Strength, reliability, and safety were at the heart of every decision. Working closely with the force’s team allowed us to tailor every aspect to meet their unique operational needs.
