Galveston-Texas City Pilots has taken delivery of its third pilot boat, a new sister-ship to the 30-knot, 21-metre launch built by Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding, Duclos Corporation, less than four years ago.
Designed by C. Raymond Hunt Associates, the all-aluminium vessel has a 6.4-metre beam and a shallow 1.1-metre draught. The new launch is powered by twin Cummins QSK38-M diesel engines, each producing a conservative 970bkW at 1,800rpm, connected to a Hamilton HM 571 waterjet through a remote-mounted Reintjes WVS 430/1 gearbox. Equipped with Gladding-Hearn's proprietary hydraulically adjustable, interceptor-type, trim-control system, the vessel's top speed is 30 knots.
Hamilton Jet's Marine Electronic Control System (MECS) monitors the waterjets, engines and gears from the primary station in the wheelhouse and a hand-held remote, aft at the rescue station.
Outside, the launch is equipped with wide side decks, inverted front windows, and port and starboard boarding platforms. Recessed steps, built into the transom, lead to a rescue platform. A pipe davit, equipped with a rescue sling is located alongside the aft control station for pilot rescue operations.
Interior accommodations feature HVAC, nine Llebroc recliners, cushioned settee and berth, dinette, and enclosed head. The galley has a refrigerator, microwave, stainless steel sink, and hanging lockers and drawers. Sound level in the wheelhouse is about 78 decibels.
