The Motor Life Boat (MLB) is an integral part of a Coast Guard fleet, built to withstand the most severe conditions at sea. Designed to be self-bailing, self-righting and practically unsinkable, lifeboats are used as a heavy weather surf rescue response platform manned by the brave men who go out in conditions that send even hardened sailors scurrying for high ground. The 44 footer was designed to return to an upright position in 30 seconds or less and with twin GM Diesel engines making 15 knots, she was bigger, faster and stronger than her wooden predecessors. Her range of stability was in excess of 175 degrees and rated for surf conditions up 20 feet, seas up to 30 feet and winds up to 50 knots.
