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Maritime rescueSRB 90 – New prototype undergoes its first trial run in Finland

Christian Tiedt

 · 24.09.2026

Maritime rescue: SRB 90 – New prototype undergoes its first trial run in FinlandPhoto: Die Seenotretter / YouTube
A new direction, both visually and technically: the SRB 90 on a test run.
The prototype of the DGzRS’s new class of sea rescue boats has set sail under its own power for the first time. The sea trial of the SRB 90 at the WDS Marine shipyard in Valko, Finland, was initially focused on ensuring the engines were correctly calibrated – rather than on a final test.

The one in the Shipyard Log of the Sea Rescue Team A video released online shows the new 12.75-metre-long vessel in action for the first time. However, according to the DGzRS, the vessel is not yet fully equipped. Sea rescue personnel and shipbuilders will therefore continue to work at the shipyard for some time; further tests are to follow.

First of all, let’s look at the drive systems

The main focus of the first sea trial was on fine-tuning the two main engines. The SRB 90 is fitted with two Cummins engines, each producing 425 PS, and a twin-jet propulsion system. The DGzRS states that the prototype has a top speed of around 34 knots and a cruising speed of just over 25 knots – both depending on the weather and sea conditions.

The fact that the prototype is now running for the first time marks a significant milestone in its development. However, it is still far from being ready for operational use: the electronics, communication and navigation systems, as well as the rest of the rescue equipment, still need to be finalised and tested.

A new type of boat for the volunteer stations

In the long term, the SRB 90 is intended to supplement or replace the older vessels in the 9.5- and 10.1-metre classes. These vessels were predominantly commissioned between 1999 and 2002 and are gradually reaching the end of their intended service life.

The new vessel differs significantly in design from its predecessors. Instead of an aluminium hull, the DGzRS has opted for a hull made of glass and carbon fibres. The deckhouse is mounted on fully elastic bearings, and the seats for the entire crew are spring-mounted. Both features are designed to reduce impacts, vibrations and noise in heavy seas. Details of the design had already introduced BOOTE.

Before any potential series production can begin, further shipyard trials, a capsizing test and an extended test phase at stations in the North Sea and the Baltic Sea are required. Only then will the DGzRS decide whether to build further vessels.

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Christian Tiedt

Christian Tiedt

Editor Travel

Christian Tiedt was born in Hamburg in 1975, but grew up in the northern suburbs of the city - except for numerous visits to the harbor, North Sea and Baltic Sea, but without direct access to water sports for a long time. His first adventures then took place on dry land: With the classics from Chichester, Slocum and Co. After completing his vocational training, his studies finally gave him the opportunity (in terms of time) to get active on the water - and to obtain the relevant licenses. First with cruising and then, when he joined BOOTE in 2004, with motorboats of all kinds. In the meantime, Christian has been able to get to know almost all of Europe (and some more distant destinations) on his own keel and prefers to share his adventures and experiences as head of the travel department for YACHT and BOOTE in cruise reports.

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