Designed for Tides First, Boats Second
Broome, located in the Kimberley region of northern Western Australia, faces unique challenges due to its significant tidal ranges. This results in extensive stretches of exposed beach and shallow waters, which can hinder traditional rescue vessels for extended periods. This environment significantly influenced the design of the IBIS III, an amphibious rescue craft developed by Westerberg Marine for the Broome Volunteer Sea Rescue Group. Central to its design is the Anura S45 Electric Over Hydraulic system, enabling the vessel to transition effortlessly between land and water without needing ramps or deep water access.
Operating from the Port of Broome, the volunteer unit is responsible for a vast area stretching over 300 kilometers of remote coastline, where amphibious capabilities are essential. The Anura system offers high traction and ground clearance, allowing the crew to launch directly from sand or navigate long beach stretches. This integration allows for effective response regardless of tide conditions, ensuring that rescue operations can continue even when returning to a ramp is not feasible.
The IBIS III was delivered in late November 2025, with trials conducted under real operational conditions. Feedback from the crew highlighted the vessel’s handling and the seamless transition between land and marine modes, a crucial factor for operations along tidal beaches. Built on a 9.5-meter alloy RIB platform, the vessel is powered by twin Mercury SeaPro V8 300 horsepower outboards, prioritizing durability for rescue missions over speed. Enhanced with advanced communication and navigation systems, IBIS III represents a significant leap in rescue capabilities for the region.
Westerberg Marine’s development of IBIS III marks a milestone as their first amphibious rescue vessel, showcasing a successful collaboration with Anura. The project has sparked interest in further amphibious vessels, with plans for a new seven-meter craft slated for delivery in May 2026. This partnership illustrates the potential for innovation in rescue operations, catering to the unique challenges presented by Broome’s coastal environment.
Share it now
