The volunteer unit has taken possession of a fire boat - a 7-metre mono hull which can hold a crew of eight.

"It is not a new boat, it is currently on loan from The Hills District in Sydney," said Ken Hepplewhite, NSW RFS inspector.

"It is fully equipped with firefighting equipment including bushfire hoses, radar and the latest in communication technology.

"It is primarily used for the transport of firefighters to a fire, be it a bushfire in remote areas, or to assist with boat fires within Port Stephens.

"The cost of a similar vessel is up to $200,000."

Soldiers Point RFS captain Dave Brown said with more than $125 million worth of vessels at the Port's major marinas - Nelson Bay, Soldiers Point and the Anchorage - "there is value in having a fire boat in this environment".

"The vessel can also be used to access, assist and where necessary evacuate people in isolated and remote areas around the port."

"We are grateful for the support of Soldiers Point Marina for waiving hiring fees and providing us with 24 hour access."

Mr Brown said training was being provided to Soldiers Point volunteers, but stressed that the boat was on loan.

"The port has never had a permanent fire boat and it would be great to think that in the not too distant future we can be the first to take ownership," Mr Brown said.