Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding of Somerset, Massachusetts, has been awarded a contract for a new pilot boat to be operated by the Bermuda Department of Marine and Port Services.
The LR-classed, Ray Hunt-designed all-aluminium boat will measure 52 by 15 feet (15.8 by 4.57 metres) and will have seating for four crew and pilots in an air-conditioned wheelhouse. Two Caterpillar C18 diesels driving five-bladed Brunton propellers will deliver a maximum speed of 22 knots.
The interior spaces will include a crew berth and an enclosed head in the forecastle.
The transom will be fitted with a boarding ladder for use in MOB rescues.
