New Marine Patrol Vessel
Based at Stonington

The new Patrol Vessel Moxie underway in Stonington. DMR photo.

Stonington—The Maine Marine Patrol has launched a new boat in Stonington to support its work patrolling Maine’s most lucrative fishing port.

The new 26-foot Patrol Vessel Moxie, built by Biddeford-based General Marine replaces a 21-foot Boston Whaler. “The PV Moxie’s name represents the courage and determination of Marine Patrol Officers,” said Marine Patrol Colonel Jon Cornish.

It will provide Officers Tyler Sirois and Daniel Vogel, who work in the Stonington patrol, the ability to haul lobster gear and, with an enclosed wheel house, go out in more challenging weather conditions.

“This is a much-improved platform for patrol activity in this very busy fishing port,” said Colonel Cornish.

“Prior to having this vessel in Stonington, Officers had to bring a larger boat from either Rockland or Mount Desert Island to haul lobster gear as part of routine patrols. Now, they have a local vessel they can use to haul and inspect lobster gear without having to bring a vessel from another patrol area.

“This saves valuable time and allows us to maintain assets in the other areas.” said Colonel Cornish. “Stonington has consistently been the most lucrative port in terms of the value of landings, so we believe it is critical to invest in improved Patrol assets in this area.”

The Moxie, a General Marine Blue Water 26, has a full keel for running gear protection and lateral stability, molded in spray rails and flair in the bow for a dry ride. “This hull design ensures excellent handling, stability, and maneuverability and allows Officers to access areas near shore where larger boats are unable to go,” said Colonel Cornish.

The hull is constructed of solid, high tech fiberglass. All hardware is 316 stainless steel above the waterline and silicon bronze below the waterline. The deck and interior are fully molded with diamond nonskid and molded in hatches. The Moxie is powered by a Volvo D6 310 engine and outfitted with a full electronics package for navigation.

Total cost for the Moxie was $193,270, of which $160,000 was paid for through a Joint Enforcement Agreement with the National Marine Fisheries Service, which provides the Maine Marine Patrol funding to support federal fisheries enforcement. The remainder of the cost was covered by the Department.