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CORTEZ, Florida — Crewmembers at Coast Guard Station Cortez, Florida, tested new life-saving boats, Tuesday.
The tests began after the station received two 29-foot Response Boat-Small II platforms in early September.
Crewmembers became familiar with the boat’s maneuverability, functionality and design during the tests. The RB-S II is replacing the older 25-foot Response Boat-Small as part of the service's plan to standardize and revitalize its shore-based fleet.
"Cortez is really excited to be receiving the new 29 as a platform," said Chief Petty Officer Daniel J. Benoit, officer-in-charge at the station. "I think it's going to be able to do everything that we ask of it."
The RB-S II is a high-speed, easily deployable asset designed to operate year-round in shallow waters along coastal borders. The boat is four feet longer than its predecessor and was designed with an increased emphasis on function and crew comfort.