BARNEGAT – The Barnegat Township Police Department’s Marine Unit is back on the water this summer with a new primary patrol vessel, following the loss of its previous boat late last season due to irreparable damage.
The 2014 21-foot Carolina Skiff, which was donated in 2022 by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, sustained engine damage and a hull crack, forcing it out of service after three years. In response, the department acquired a brand-new Maycraft 2300 center console vessel from Waterfront Marine in Somers Point, N.J.
The purchase was made possible through the agency’s criminal forfeiture fund, ensuring that no taxpayer money was used for the acquisition of the boat or its trailer.
Thanks to swift work by the Barnegat Department of Public Works, the new vessel was fully equipped with electronics and adorned with official decals within days of delivery. The department credited Derek Kadlubowski, Mike Kadlubowski, Steve Bertram, Charlie Coopey, and Foreman Scott Docherty for their efficient effort in preparing the vessel for service just in time for the summer boating season.
Much of the gear from the previous boat was salvaged and installed on the new vessel. The police department extended its gratitude to local partners who originally contributed key equipment:
- The Rotary Club of Barnegat donated the GPS/chartplotters.
- Sherer’s Boat Basin, Inc. provided VHF and FM marine antennas.
- Island Vista Marina again donated a slip for the vessel.
- TowBoatUS Barnegat Light & Beach Haven renewed the department’s Unlimited Gold Towing Membership for the season.
With the new boat now operational, the Marine Unit will be actively patrolling Barnegat’s waterways throughout the summer. Officials are reminding boaters to observe critical safety precautions, including wearing properly fitted life jackets, monitoring weather conditions, operating at safe speeds, and never boating under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
The department also emphasized the importance of designating a sober skipper when alcohol is involved, conducting equipment checks, using engine cut-off switches, maintaining clear communication, and respecting navigational rules and no-wake zones.
“We’re grateful to our community and partners who helped make this upgrade possible,” the department said in a statement. “Our Marine Unit stands ready to ensure a safe and enjoyable summer on the water.”
