Hawkesbury Marine Rescue opts for Verado reliability

Boaters, skiers and swimmers will enjoy the Hawkesbury River in greater safety this summer, thanks to the new Verado-powered patrol boat operated by the region’s Marine Rescue Unit.

Marine Rescue Hawkesbury has taken delivery of a brand new 7.5 metre Ocean Cylinder patrol craft, powered by dual Verado 150 hp FourStroke outboard engines.

“Everyone’s very happy because the boat’s performance is stunning,” said Mercury’s Darren Whitfield, who has helped run the boat through its paces.

Made by Yamba Welding, the Ocean Cylinder rescue craft cruises comfortably at 25 knots and 4,500 rpm, using only 50 litres of fuel an hour. That give her a range of more than 200 nautical miles.

But when the situation calls for speed, she can reach 35.9 knots at WOT. 

“The boat weighs about 3.5 tonnes before you put any people in it but these twin Verados, which we’ve fitted with 15" Mercury Enertia propellers, move it around so easily,” Darren said.

Mercury technology means dual Verado installations enjoy "engine synchronisation", allowing the driver to operate both engines from just one control lever, providing much greater control especially in rough water conditions.   

Along with excellent control, engine reliability and is an absolute must for rescue craft which helps explain why the new Ocean Cylinder is Verado-powered.

With its Long Bolt engine design, maintenance-free valve train, long lasting gearbox and superior corrosion protection, the Verado has proved itself time and again to be the most reliable outboard on the water.

Mercury’s Digital Throttle and Shift (DTS) technology – which comes as standard – provides instantaneous gear changes and amazing throttle control.

Furthermore, Mercury's exclusive SmartCraft engine management system automatically adjusts the engines for optimum performance in all conditions and provides continuous information to the helm including fuel consumption, estimated fuel range, remaining fuel, trim level and much more.

“These Verados are giving power, control and reliability which is exactly what you want in a rescue boat,” Darren said.

And that means safer boating for people on the Hawkesbury.