7th & 8th Targa 31:s to the met police
The Met purchased their first Targa 31 in 1998 to update a traditional fleet of more old-fashioned craft.
It is fair to say that the much more modern Targa with its greatly improved speed and crew comfort was initially received by its very busy, “dyed in the wool” operators with some raised eyebrows. Entering 2007 the picture could not be more different – the Targa 31 has now become the definitive Thames Division craft dominating the fleet with its unique combination of high speed, walk-around format and exceptional flexibility in this most rigorous of roles.
As a tribute to Targa, the latest 31 replaces a boat which has run in service double it’s projected service expectancy demonstrating Targa concept’s durability. And perhaps the best aspect of these craft is that they are very close in spec and build to “off the shelf” boats configured for private owners. When speaking informally with individual crew members it is clear that the Targa is first choice for all duties for its improved working conditions quietness, warmth and safety afloat for its crew.
The Targas are now at the cutting edge of the Thames Division fleet with their popularity ensuring higher than expected workloads and running hours and minimum down time. Nowadays, there is an even chance that anyone living in or visiting London will have noticed a Police Targa up and down the Thames and further downstream. This represents a considerable achievement from the team of Wessex Marine and Botnia Marin in a commercial boat world dominated by much bigger players!