Birdon’s Bellingham shipyard is the company’s West Coast hub for U.S. Coast Guard vessel sustainment, specialising in the 47’ Motor Lifeboat Service Life Extension Program (MLB-SLEP).
The facility delivers end-to-end refurbishment of heavy-weather rescue vessels – replacing critical hull structures, propulsion systems, navigation electronics and onboard equipment to restore each lifeboat to like-new condition with an additional 20 years of operational life.
Equipped with a Marine Travelift and direct waterfront access on Bellingham Bay, the site supports efficient vessel handling, refit work and sea trials. An in-house production engineering team drives continuous improvement across each conversion, consistently exceeding original performance standards.
Supporting mission readiness through extended vessel life, improved performance and enhanced operational reliability.
Core Capabilities
Hull & Structural Refurbishment
Repair and reinforcement of aluminium hulls on 47’ Motor Lifeboats, replacing areas prone to fatigue and failure to withstand extreme surf and weather conditions for decades of continued service.
Propulsion & Systems Upgrades
Full modernisation of onboard systems including engines, propulsion components, electrical and steering systems, towing equipment, and navigation and communication electronics – resolving obsolescence and improving reliability and performance.
Engineering & Integration
In-house production engineering supporting each conversion, delivering innovative improvements – including measurable reductions in noise and vibration levels exceeding original standards – while meeting strict Coast Guard requirements.
On-Site Vessel Handling
Marine Travelift and waterfront access enabling efficient haul-out, refit and launch operations, with sea trials conducted directly from the facility on Bellingham Bay.
Flagship Program
Key programs and projects delivered from this facility include:
- USCG Motor Lifeboat SLEP
Local Impact
Birdon’s Bellingham facility contributes to the Pacific Northwest community through skilled job creation, workforce investment and long-term regional commitment. Approximately 15% of Birdon’s U.S. workforce are military veterans, bringing valuable experience to the company’s defence programs. Birdon also invests in the next generation of maritime tradespeople, with 14 apprentices across U.S. operations as of 2024. Part of a 125-person program workforce across Bellingham and Connecticut.
Compliance and Certifications
- AS9100D Quality Management Systems
- ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management Systems
