Customs Cutter Panther

Photographs © John Luxton 2003

The Isle of Man Customs and Excise recently took delivery of customs cutter PANTHER which is on long term loan from HM Customs & Excise. PANTHER is a fifteen metre decked vessel with a range of over 300 miles. It provides basic accommodation for four officers and allows for extended periods of deployment. The vessel has twin engines and propellers and is fitted with up to date navigational and technological aids. 

While capable of being deployed far out to sea the vessel’s shallow draft allows for close inshore work. Making it an extremely adaptable and versatile asset for the Island’s law enforcement and protection.

The PANTHER  provides for better all weather operating capability, endurance and range than the present BLUE RANGER. The vessel is equipped with sophisticated detection aids which will allow IOM Customs & Excise to better protect the seas around the Island.