HamiltonJet is proud to support the delivery of the sixth Kewatec Serecraft SAR 17 to Reykjavík, further strengthening Iceland’s search and rescue capabilities. This high-performance vessel joins the fleet to enhance rapid response operations in the country’s challenging maritime environment.
Equipped with HamiltonJet HJ403 waterjets, the SAR 17 ensures exceptional manoeuvrability, speed, and reliability—critical factors in life-saving missions. The collaboration between HamiltonJet and Kewatec Shipyards highlights a shared commitment to delivering cutting-edge maritime technology for emergency response teams operating in extreme conditions.
Lars Olaussen, the COO of Kewatec Aluboat, expresses gratitude for the project, saying,”we would like to extend our sincere thanks to HamiltonJet for their outstanding cooperation and unwavering commitment. Hamiltonjet waterjets provide exceptional performance and manoeuvrability, ensuring superior handling and efficiency in diverse maritime conditions. This allows us to consistently meet and exceed our customers’ requirements and expectations for our products. We are particularly grateful for the support and expertise provided by Hamilton´s Finnish representative and regional manager.
From the operator, ICESAR, Maritime SAR Project Manager Björn Gunnarsson highlights the impact of these vessels, “The new ICE-SAR vessels, built by Kewatec and powered by HamiltonJet propulsion, mark a significant leap forward in our search and rescue capabilities. Each vessel is equipped with twin Scania DI13 551 kW engines and Hamiltonjet HJ403 waterjets, state of the art navigation equipment providing exceptional speed, manoeuvrability, and reliability. This advanced propulsion system offers precise control in extreme weather conditions, allowing us to operate safely in Iceland’s notoriously rough seas, where high waves, strong currents, and sudden weather changes are constant challenges.”
Currently, four of these next-generation rescue boats are in service, with fifth and sixth under construction. Our long-term plan includes a total of 13 vessels, systematically replacing our aging Arun-class boats. The Arun-class has served us well for decades, but these older vessels rely on conventional propeller-driven propulsion, which has limitations in tight manoeuvres and shallow waters. The new boats, with their waterjet propulsion, provide significantly improved responsiveness, reduced draft, and the ability to operate more safely in challenging coastal environments. They also offer superior crew comfort, modern navigation systems, and enhanced rescue capabilities, allowing us to execute missions more effectively and with greater confidence.
“These vessels are a game-changer for ICE-SAR, ensuring we can continue our critical work with the best tools available. We are extremely pleased with their performance and look forward to seeing the full fleet in action in the coming years.” says Maritime SAR Project Manager Björn Gunnarsson.
