Barrie Police announce the launch of their newest police vessel in Kempenfelt Bay for the upcoming boating season.

The new vessel is a 27-foot Stanley with a covered wheelhouse and is specifically designed for police use, capable of handling all kinds of weather and water conditions.

The police service’s marine unit will start patrolling the bay this long weekend using the new boat and will shift its focus to a daily patrol at the end of June through August. Two police vessels will see use this summer, staffed by two crews of trained marine officers to ensure coverage seven days a week.

The official launch of the new boat was held Tuesday afternoon at the City of Barrie boat launch and fuel area on Lakeshore Drive.