The choice of the new lifeboat was determined by a number of specific qualities and the Mare GTC 900 was the first choice for working on the Netherlands inshore waters where the rescue craft will be stationed. Advantages of the GTC 900 are the 34 knot high speed which enables the craft to get to rescue sites quickly, excellent manoeuvrability and safety due to waterjet propulsion, the spacious deck and high bollard pull (1600 kg ) of the single UltraJet UJ377 propulsion unit enables the rescue craft to accommodate up to 20 rescued people, The vessel also has the D-fender for reduced impact and easy maintenance.
For the crew of four there is ample room behind the consul so individual tasks can easily be carried out by each crew member. Communications are carried out via integrated helmet systems.
The KNRM has 42 lifeboat stations and most of these have all-weather lifeboats. Eight stations are situated on inland waterways which are crowded by pleasure craft in the summer season. Some 400 rescue missions out of a total number of 2,000 per year are carried out by these lifeboat stations.
Since 2009 the KNRM have bought four lifeboats of this class. Built by Mare Safety AS, the GRP craft features a single Volvo D6 rated 435 hp at 3,500 rpm and driving the UltraJet through a Twin Disc MG-5050SC gearbox with a ratio of 1.7:1.
