The Vermont State Police recently took delivery of two specialized 25-foot Ribcraft 7.8’s. Delivered to the greater Burlington area, the boats will be used by the State Police Marine Division for all law enforcement operations including patrol, search and rescue, rapid response, victim recovery, and executive protection details on Lake Champlain.

These add to the agency’s existing fleet of Ribcrafts and will provide expanded on-water capabilities. As with previous deliveries, these boats were configured and built to meet the diverse operational requirements of the Vermont Marine State Police. The new 7.8 features a center console with windscreen and extended aluminum T-top, antenna arch, aft tow post, engine crash rail, heavy-duty dark grey Hypalon tube with reinforcing at the bow, two rows of rubstrake reinforcing, and boarding wear patches. The 7.8 provides a comfortable platform for long patrols while offering an open deck for officers and gear. Powered by a 300-hp Mercury SeaPro outboard, the boat will reach speeds in excess of 50 mph while still providing safety and performance.

Features of the Ribcraft 7.8 include:

• Center console with front bench seat

• Leaning post

• Extended aluminum T-top with windscreen and electronics box

• Aluminum antenna arch

• Aft tow post

• Engine crash rail

• Large open aft deck

• Fiberglass deep-V hull

• Keel guard

• Heavy-duty dark grey 1670 dtx Hypalon tube with bow and rubstrake reinforcing