Mike Martin News

Willard Provides High-speed Umpire Boat for America’s Cup

Those who have been watching the America’s Cup races in San Francisco Bay may have noticed the high-speed umpire boat racing alongside the sailboats. The 43-ft. interceptor craft was provided by Willard Marine, a 56-year-old boat builder based in southern California. The boat is based on an offshore racing design and was originally built by Willard Marine for military special warfare missions, such as interdicting and boarding vessels in the open ocean. Powered by twin 600hp inboard turbocharged diesel engines with a high-speed surface drive, the interceptor can sustain speeds up to 60 knots.