Nearly exactly a year ago, The Watercraft Journal introduced you to the Yamaha-propelled “RescueRunner,” a privately-assembled search-and-rescue watercraft developed and assembled by boat builder Safe at Sea out of Kungälv, Sweden using the already tried-and-true Yamaha powertrain components from a VX model.
Originally created from the tragic loss of six crew members of the Swedish Armed Forces SuperPuma rescue helicopter H99 that crashed in 2003, the RescueRunner was designed to perform waterborne lifesaving techniques capable of saving those original six crew members.
Employing techniques from across the globe – from beach and surf rescue, the RescueRunner was designed by Fredrik Falkman and, working in development with the SSRS (Swedish Sea Rescue Society), used a Yamaha WaveRunner FX140 four-stroke 140HP engine and drivetrain to power the custom-designed hull that features a low aft deck for fast loading and unloading, a safety tower housing a light, and a rugged polyethylene hull that can be quickly replaced if damaged.
The RescueRunner’s design is also incredibly service-friendly, with an inspection hatch allowing for quick access of the jet, and can be equipped with underwater search lights, an AIS-transponder, and much more. More stable than fast, the RescueRunner tops off at 40 knots and can hold up to 70 liters (18-plus-gallons) of fuel. Weighing in at 771lbs., the RescueRunner is also impressively lightweight given its sturdy deck and reinforced hull.
