The Daytona Beach Fire Department is making waves with its newest addition—Marine 1, a state-of-the-art firefighting boat docked at historic Fire Station No. 1 on Beach Street. Built by Lake Assault Boats in Wisconsin, this 26-foot Landing Craft enhances emergency response and fire protection along the city’s waterways.
To operate Marine 1, crew members must earn a Florida Safe Boater card, complete a 40-hour training program and demonstrate critical skills, assessed annually.
While its primary mission is emergency response, Marine 1 also ensures safety along the Halifax River. Its presence coincides with training exercises, increasing oversight as the city expands water activities. The boat will also help reinstate the Dive Team once training is completed.
The acquisition was funded through allocated ARPA funds from Zone 4 Commissioner Stacy Cantu ($250,000), Zone 3 Commissioner Quanita May ($50,000), former Zone 1 Commissioner Ruth Trager ($10,000) and a $75,000 grant from the Florida Inland Navigation District.
This vessel strengthens Daytona Beach’s ability to protect residents and marine assets, ensuring a safer, more prepared city.