Hong Kong’s Largest Self-Balancing Firefighting Boat: A Game-Changer in Rescue and Research Operations

The Hong Kong Fire Department recently purchased a self-balancing firefighting boat that can recover after capsizing within seconds. Built by Lungteh shipyard in Taiwan, this vessel is considered the world’s largest self-righting firefighting boat and will be used for maritime research and rescue operations in Hong Kong waters.

The self-righting function of the ship allows for continued rescue and firefighting operations even in challenging conditions, improving the protection of firefighters on board and enhancing mobility in adverse weather. This 35-40 meter long vessel, weighing about 200 tons, will undergo several months of testing at To Ao port in Nghi Lan district and crew training before it is officially put into use. The boat, named “Fire Fighting Boat 12,” was commissioned by the Hong Kong Logistics Department from Lungteh in June 2020.

Lungteh Shipyard has been producing medium-speed vessels since 1979 and has built many ships for various government agencies in Hong Kong. This new addition to the Hong Kong Fire Department’s fleet aims to enhance their capabilities in responding to emergencies and conducting rescue operations at sea. Despite delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the construction and handover process of the firefighting ship has been ongoing with a balance arm that allows the vessel to return to an upright position when rolling.