The new search and rescue boat for the Icelandic Search and Rescue Association (ICE-SAR, Slysavarnafélagið Landsbjörg) arrived at the port in Reykjavík during the fall. The boat was received with solemn ceremonies at the future homeport at Westman Islands. This is the first of three boats that Landsbjörg has purchased, with a valid option for 10 additional vessels. The new boat was also shown at the Rescue 22 exhibition to the public where we had the honor of meeting the President of Iceland, Guðni Thorlacius Jóhannesson.
The first boat was named Þór (TOR). The two boats that are yet to arrive are planned to arrive in Iceland next year. The Iceland state finances up to half of the costs. Landsbjörg plans to renew all thirteen of its search and rescue boats in the next ten years. Landsbjörg boat users are happy and satisfied with the new boat.
The boats are 17 meters long, fast, self-righting Kewatec Serecraft SAR 17 search and rescue boats. Their construction began in Kokkola at the end of October last year, the first of which has now been delivered.
Search and Rescue Association Slysavarnafélagið Landsbjörg, ICE-SAR is a national association of rescue units and accident prevention divisions. Its member organizations include 99 rescue units, 70 accident prevention units, women’s sections, and 50 youth units. The association has a total of approximately 10,000 volunteers and operates in most Icelandic cities.