Kvichak to Build Pilot Boat, Fire Vessels
Camarc, Ltd. and Kvichak Marine Industries have teamed up once again to design and build an all-aluminum 72-ft. pilot boat. The new boat, scheduled for a Summer 2002 delivery, is for the Sabine Pilots Association of Groves, Texas and will operate year-round in the waters of Sabine Pass. Power is provided by twin Detroit Diesel 16V2000 engines rated for 1,285 bhp each at 2,100 rpm, and Hamilton HM651 waterjets were chosen as the propulsors. This combination is designed to allow excellent maneuverability, a top speed of 28 knots, and a cruising speed of 26 knots. The patented "Popsafe" fendering system will be used to protect the vessel hull while boat and pilot transfers are made.
Port of Los Angeles To Welcome Trio of Aluminum Fireboats
Subsequent to a lengthy bidding process, the Port of Los Angeles will receive a trio of three all-aluminum fireboats, which will be constructed by Kvichak Marine Industries. Measuring 39 ft. Jensen Maritime Consultants of Seattle. The three new vessels, which will be named Fireboat #1, #3 and #5, will be stationed throughout the Port of L.A. and are scheduled to replace three existing vessels that are each more than 35 years old. A 105-ft. (32 m) steel fireboat, currently under construction at Nichols Bros. of Freeland, Wash. will also join the upgraded fleet in 2002. Each having a beam of 14 ft. (4.2 m), the fireboats will be powered by twin Caterpillar 3126B engines, driving 27-in. propellers through Twin Disc MG-507A gears.
