The 41 ft (12 m) UTB was designed to operate under moderate weather and sea conditions where its speed and maneuverability made it an ideal platform; however, due to the modified "V" design when the 41ft UTB when operated in a following seaway it had a tendency to be pushed to the starboard or port making it difficult when entering an entrance.

The boats were welded 5086 aluminum, with a molded fiberglass superstructure and twin Cummins diesel engines with conventional shafts and propellers.

They were capable of light towing, and were originally fitted with demountable fire monitors.

Beginning in 2008, these aging boats were retired and replaced with the Response Boat-Medium over a 6–10 year period.

[clarification needed] The last active boat, CG-41410 from Station Muskegon, was taken out of service in Grand Haven, Michigan on 31 July 2014.