The Coast Guard Cutter Mackinaw was designed specifically for the Great Lakes, where its mission has been to keep the shipping lanes open through as much of the winter as possible. The cutter's features state-of-the-art navigation, communication, and security systems. The vessel also has a 20-ton crane for servicing aids to navigation, and an oil spill recovery system onboard. It uses two-podded propulsions and a bow thruster to provide excellent maneuverability.