Take Your Operations Further with North River’s Versatile Commercial Boats
Roseburg, Oregon — From emergency response to offshore and harbor operations, North River continues to define strength, safety, and craftsmanship across its commercial lineup. Among its standout builds this year, a 27-foot Landing Craft Fire Response Vessel for the Austin Fire Department, the 35-foot Gambler Sounder, and a 35-foot Pilot Boat for Hawaii exemplify the range, capability, and precision engineering that have made North River a trusted name on the water.
Built in partnership with Siddons-Martin Emergency Group (SMEG), the Austin Fire Department's 27-foot Landing Craft Fire Response Vessel showcases North River's commitment to first responders. Designed and built in Roseburg, Oregon, this custom aluminum fireboat handles multi-role operations, from firefighting and rescue to flood response.

At 27 feet long (32' LOA) with a 9'6" beam and 24-degree deadrise, the vessel offers exceptional stability and control in unpredictable conditions. A hydraulically operated 64-inch bow door enables rapid shoreline access, while reinforced push knees enhance maneuverability in tight quarters. Twin Yamaha 300hp 4.2L outboards with Helm Master EX joystick controls provide precise handling in high-pressure situations. A Darley PSDE 1,500 GPM fire pump, powered by a KEM 6.0L gasoline engine, feeds Task Force Tips V.U.M. discharges and a TFT Flex Monitor with Master Stream 2000 Halo nozzle, allowing the vessel to attack fires directly or supply land-based units when hydrants are unavailable.
Every detail serves a purpose: custom tool and hose storage, non-skid decks, and a T-top console that offers sun protection and complete visibility. Advanced systems such as Garmin navigation, FLIR thermal imaging, Whelen emergency lighting, and Setcom communications help ensure the crew can operate with precision and safety on any mission. This fireboat is a powerful example of North River's dedication to delivering confidence when seconds count.
While the Austin Fire Boat highlights North River's emergency response capability, the 35-foot Sounder showcases the company's offshore performance and craftsmanship. Built for serious open-water pursuits, The Gambler Sounder features a commanding 12-foot beam and triple Yamaha 350NSAs, delivering more than 1,000 horsepower. Whether running offshore for tuna or navigating coastal chop, the vessel provides speed, range, and stability with absolute confidence.
At the helm, a Raymarine suite integrates radar, sonar, GPS, and multifunction displays for total situational awareness. FLIR night vision, Seakeeper 3 Gyro stabilization, and Seakeeper 600 Ride control systems ensure comfort and safety. Inside, the layout is built with functional seating, custom cabinetry, and ample storage for extended runs. Outfitted with Burnewiin rod holders and a full spread of custom Gambler Series Talon rods, the Sounder is a serious fishing platform designed for long-range efficiency and performance. It's a testament to North River's engineering and attention to detail, which are qualities that have made the brand a top choice among professional crews for over 50 years.
Completing the trio of recent commercial builds is the Hawaii Pilot Boat, a 35-foot vessel built to navigate coastlines and challenging conditions surrounding the Hawaiian Islands. Designed for safe, reliable transport of harbor pilots to and from incoming ships, this vessel combines seaworthiness, control, and comfort in one durable package.
With a 12-foot beam and proven North River hull design, the Hawaii Pilot Boat delivers stability in current and crosswinds. Powered by triple Yamaha F300s, the boat offers dependable performance and maneuverability, critical for tight harbor approaches. The cabin layout prioritizes crew safety and visibility, with reinforced side heights, full fendering, and ergonomic deck systems designed to minimize risk during transfers. Built to endure the harshest Pacific conditions, the Hawaii Pilot Boat reflects North River's focus on mission-specific design.
North River's commercial boats prove one thing again and again: when it matters most, these aluminum vessels deliver. Thoughtfully designed, each vessel exceeds expectations in both performance and versatility.
North River is an employee-owned company operating out of a 125,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Roseburg, Oregon. The company offers both commercial and recreational boats ranging from 20 to 60 feet, all built with the same dedication to quality and innovation that has made North River an industry leader for more than five decades.
For more information, visit https://www.northriverboats.com/
