VESSEL REVIEW | UK builder delivers compact fire/rescue craft for harbour waters

In working with WMD, AMC found that fitting all the essential items into tighter spatial constraints (compared to typical builds) required creative system integration and careful sequencing during outfitting.

“It was a challenge, but one we have learnt from. Due to how the vessel will be operating, the aluminium was carefully welded and braced to withstand repeated high-speed manoeuvres and handle the weight of the additional fire pumps.

“We also wanted to build this vessel to be cost-effective to the end user, as we believe every marina and harbour should have one. Juggling trying to keep costs low yet not compromising safety or performance was a challenge. We had to ensure that the fire pump’s weight and vibration profile didn’t interfere with hull dynamics or crew comfort.”

For AMC, the project reinforced the value of early modular planning, especially when integrating multiple mission-critical systems into a compact platform.

“By developing a more adaptable internal framework, we were able to future-proof the layout for different equipment configurations and varying operational roles. We also gained deeper insight into the interplay between high-output fire pumps and small vessel hull dynamics.”

The performance modelling and vibration-mitigation work from this build will directly inform future rapid-response platforms, allowing AMC to optimise pump positioning, structural reinforcement, and noise/comfort levels even further.

“The collaboration with international marina and harbour authorities also highlighted the importance of designing vessels for mixed-skill agencies, not just specialist crews. This will continue to shape our approach to intuitive control layouts, low training barriers, and shared-use operational models in future builds.”