Barnegat Police Marine Unit Gets An Upgrade In Time For Peak Summer Season

BARNEGAT, NJ — The Barnegat Township Police Department has upgraded its Marine Unit's primary vessel, just in time for peak summer season.

It was late in the season last year when the department's 2014 21 foot Carolina Skiff sustained engine damage and a crack in its hull, rendering it irreparable, police said.

That unit was initially launched in 2022, thanks to a donation from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.

Police found a new leftover Maycraft 2300 center console at Waterfront Marine in Somers Point.

"We were fortunate enough to be able to use our criminal forfeiture fund to purchase the boat and trailer so that no taxpayer funds were used," police said.

After they got the boat, the Barnegat Department of Public Works outfitted all the electronics and affixed decals in only a few days, police said.

"A huge thanks to Derek Kadlubowski, Mike Kadlubowski, Steve Bertram, Charlie Coopey and Foreman Scott Docherty," police said. "Thanks to their team, we were able to have the vessel put into service just in time for the busy summer season."

All equipment previously donated for the prior vessel was repurposed for the new one. Police thanked the following:

• The Rotary Club of Barnegat donated the GPS/Chartplotters.
• Sherer's Boat Basin, INC. of Barnegat donated the VHF and FM Marine antennas
• Island Vista Marina of Barnegat donated a slip for the boat again this year.
• TowBoatUS Barnegat Light & Beach Haven donated an Unlimited Gold Towing Membership again this year.

You'll see the boat out on the water this summer. Police shared the following tips for safe boating:

• Life Jackets: Always wear a properly fitting life jacket, regardless of swimming ability or the type of vessel.
• Weather: Monitor weather conditions before and during your outing, as conditions can change rapidly.
• Safe Speed: Adhere to speed limits and be mindful of your surroundings, including other boaters and potential hazards. Respect all areas marked as No-Wake Zones.
• BUI (Boating Under the Influence): Never operate a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Designated Skipper: If alcohol is involved, ensure a sober and qualified individual is operating the vessel.
• Equipment Check: Before heading out, inspect all required safety equipment, including life jackets, flares, and fire extinguishers.
• Engine Cut-off Switch: Utilize the engine cut-off switch to stop the engine if the operator falls overboard.
• Communication: Maintain communication with others and let them know your location and expected return time.
• Respect the Water: Be aware of your surroundings, navigational aids, and other boaters.