Image: Gladding-Hearn
The Association of Maryland Pilots has actually bought a brand-new course of pilot watercraft from Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding, Duclos Corporation, Somerset,Mass
Called the “Baltimore Class” after the pilots’ main office at the Port of Baltimore, the vessel’s shipment is arranged for April 2021.
With a size overall of 48.5 feet, beam of light of 15.6 feet, and also draft of 4 feet, the all-aluminum pilot watercraft includes the Ray Hunt Design deep V hull. It will certainly be powered by double Volvo Penta D13, EPA Tier 3-compliant diesel motor, each providing 600 hp at 1,900 rpm with a full throttle of 29 knots. A Humphree interceptor trim-tab control system, with automated trim optimization, will certainly be set up at the transom.
The engines will certainly transform 5-bladed Bruntons NiBrAl props through ZF400A transmission.
The launch will certainly be furnished with a 6 kW Northern Lights genset.
The wheelhouse, flush-mounted to the deck amidship, includes a center-line helm terminal, 5 NorSap shock-mitigating reclining seats, a bag shelf, fridge and also a 16,000 Btu reverse-cycle a/c device. A 2nd 12,000 Btu a/c device will certainly be set up in the incomplete forecastle, that includes a porta-potty, device box and also storage space for safety and security equipment.
Outside of the wheelhouse will certainly be vast warmed side decks and also hand rails, side and also back doors, and also boarding systems on the roofing. A Harken safety and security rail will certainly be set up on the sides and also around the front of the wheelhouse. A control terminal, in addition to a powered rescue system for pilot rescue procedures, goes to the transom.
