This is one of the 2 Hovercraft (Air Cushion Vehicles) stationed on the west coast operated by the Canadian Coast Guard. Both hovercraft are based out of Richmond, BC, Canada.
The Canadian Coast Guard operates 4 of these total. Two are based out on the west coast and are used for rescues as well as general duties. The remaining 2 hovercraft are based in eastern Canada and they are specially modified to be used in “Ice Breaking Duties” as well as rescue.
We don’t get to see them up close like this often however I have seen them in the past out on the water when we were out fishing, even then you don’t want to get to close because they are really loud and could be required to take off very quickly. Seeing this in the town where I live was a real treat!
Enjoy the photos and see the specs below.
The CCGS Moytel is a Canadian Coast Guard air-cushioned vehicle (hovercraft) based at CCG Hovercraft Base Richmond, British Columbia, on Sea Island. Its primary mission is to provide search and rescue services for British Columbia, replacing the CCGS Penac. The name “Moytel” means “to help each other” in Halq’emélem, reflecting its role in supporting coastal communities.
Constructed by Griffon Hoverworks Ltd. and launched in 2013, it entered service with the Canadian Coast Guard in 2014.
The Canadian Coast Guard describes Moytel as a more versatile and powerful amphibious vehicle than its predecessor, capable of patrolling inland waters with enhanced capabilities, including a bow ramp for transporting rescue equipment and vehicles.
Specifications:
- Length: 28.5 meters (93 ft 6 in)
- Beam: 12.0 meters (39 ft 4 in)
- Net Tonnage: 70 tons
- Hull Material: Aluminum
- Propulsion: Four Caterpillar C32 geared diesel engines, rated at 3,356 kW (4,500 hp), driving two controllable pitch propellers
- Additional Features: Bow and stern thrusters for enhanced maneuverability
- Maximum Speed: 50 knots (93 km/h; 58 mph)
- Cruising Speed: 45 knots (83 km/h; 52 mph)
- Range: 400 nautical miles (740 km; 460 mi) at cruising speed
- Endurance: One day (Crew gets to go home at the end of the day!)
- Crew Complement: Six, (2 officers & 4 crew including divers)
- Cargo Capabilities: Equipped with a bow ramp for transporting supplies, such as rescue equipment and vehicles, enhancing its versatility for search and rescue operations
The Moytel’s design allows it to navigate shallow waters, mudflats, and various surfaces like water, land, and ice, making it ideal for search and rescue, as well as other tasks like servicing navigational aids in challenging coastal environments.
Have a great day everyone! Mike Out!
For more information see the website for Griffon Hoverworks Ltd.
See my short video on YouTube or watch it right here!