Hong Kong Just Got The World’s Biggest Self-Righting Fireboat – And It Can Recover In Just 6 Seconds

Hong Kong’s Fire Services Department (FSD) is making waves with the introduction of a revolutionary fireboat – the world’s largest self-righting vessel of its kind. This US$16 million (HK$125 million) powerhouse boasts the ability to recover from a complete capsize in a mere six seconds, marking a significant leap forward in maritime firefighting and rescue capabilities.

Crafted by Lungteh Shipbuilding in Taiwan, this behemoth is specifically designed to tackle the challenges of Hong Kong’s waters, particularly the eastern region where emergency incidents are on the rise. Measuring a staggering 30 to 39 meters in length and weighing a hefty 200 tonnes, the fireboat boasts an ingenious self-righting mechanism. This marvel of engineering allows the vessel to automatically roll upright from any tilted position, ensuring mission continuity even in the face of choppy seas and turbulent weather.

The importance of this feature cannot be overstated. As an FSD source aptly pointed out to the South China Morning Post (SCMP), “You can’t go out to save people if your boat has capsized and you become a rescue target yourself.” Videos of the testing phase conducted at Suao Port in Taiwan serve as a testament to the system’s effectiveness, showcasing the fireboat self-righting within seconds.

While the initial delivery target of 2022 was unfortunately waylaid by the COVID-19 pandemic, the fireboat is now poised to make its grand arrival in Hong Kong as early as June. Nicknamed “Fireboat 12,” this vessel will not only sport the standard fire department livery but will also play a vital role in enhancing firefighter safety during challenging weather conditions.

The addition of this remarkable fireboat to the FSD fleet underscores their unwavering commitment to bolstering Hong Kong’s maritime search and rescue capabilities. The self-righting technology ensures the fireboat’s continued operation during emergencies, safeguarding both the brave firefighters on board and those in dire need of assistance on the high seas. This investment signifies a new era of maritime safety in Hong Kong, where even the most perilous situations can be tackled with confidence and unwavering resolve.