80′ Patrol Vessel for the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department

Captain Murchison: Advanced Patrol Catamaran for Texas Parks & Wildlife

All American Marine (AAM) proudly delivers the Captain Murchison, an 80-foot hydrofoil-assisted aluminum catamaran, to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD). Built to USCG Subchapter T standards, this state-of-the-art law enforcement vessel enhances TPWD’s ability to patrol Texas state and federal waters, including the Gulf of Mexico.

Innovative Hydrofoil-Assisted Design

Designed by Teknicraft Design, the 80’ x 27’ semi-displacement catamaran integrates hydrofoil-assisted hull technology for enhanced speed, fuel efficiency, and stability. Powered by twin CAT C18 ACERT D engines and Hamilton Jet HM 521 waterjets, the vessel features Hamilton Jet’s Advanced Vessel Control (AVX) system, including station keeping and JETanchor positioning, ensuring precise maneuverability in challenging conditions.

Revolutionary Law Enforcement Features

The Captain Murchison is designed for multi-mission maritime security and environmental enforcement. Key capabilities include:

• Teknicraft’s Rapid RHIB Launching System, enabling RHIB deployment in under one minute
• 20’ Willard RHIB with 170 HP Volvo Diesel Engine & Hamilton Jet Propulsion
• FLIR M400 XR High-Resolution Thermal Imaging System for superior surveillance
• DJI Mavic Drone integrated into helm displays for aerial reconnaissance

Strengthening Texas’ Maritime Border Security

“Our key mission is to ensure the Texas maritime border is safe,” said Cody Jones, Assistant Commander, TPWD. “There’s no off-the-shelf vessel that meets our daily needs, so AAM and Teknicraft designed and built a versatile, mission-ready patrol vessel.”

TPWD is responsible for patrolling Texas state waters out to 9 nautical miles, as well as an additional 200 nautical miles under a joint enforcement agreement with NOAA. Texas Game Wardens enforce state and federal laws related to wildlife protection, marine resource conservation, and border security, making this vessel a crucial asset for operations in adverse weather and high-threat environments.

Advancing Maritime Law Enforcement Technology

“All American Marine continues to lead in innovative, fuel-efficient workboats,” said Ron Wille, AAM President & COO. “The Captain Murchison is a game-changer for Texas Game Wardens and sets a new standard in law enforcement vessels.”

Built at AAM’s Bellingham, WA facility, the Captain Murchison expands TPWD’s enforcement capabilities, reinforcing Texas’ commitment to protecting marine resources and securing its coastal waters.