Maryland Pilots Order Another Launch from Gladding-Hearn

The Association of Maryland Pilots has ordered a new pilot boat from Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding, Duclos Corporation. The high-speed vessel is a sistership to its first Baltimore Class launch, delivered less than two years ago. Delivery is scheduled for 2024.  

With a length overall of 48.5’, beam of 15.6’, and draft of 4’, the all-aluminum pilot boat features the Ray Hunt Design deep V hull. It will be powered by twin Volvo Penta D13, EPA Tier 3-compliant diesel engines, each delivering 600 hp at 1,900 rpm with a top speed of 30 knots. A Humphree interceptor trim-tab control system, with its Automatic Trim Optimization, will be installed at the transom.

The engines will turn five-blade Bruntons NiBrAl propellers via ZF370A gear boxes. The launch will be equipped with a 6kW Northern Lights genset.

The vessel’s wheelhouse, with a small trunk, is being installed amidships on a flush deck. With forward-leaning front windows, the wheelhouse is outfitted with a center-line helm station, four NorSap shock-mitigating seats, a bag rack, refrigerator and two 12,000 Btu reverse-cycle HVAC units. A second 10,000 Btu HVAC unit will be installed in the forecastle, which will include a porta-potty, tool box and storage for safety gear.

Outside of the wheelhouse are wide heated side decks and hand rails, side and rear doors, and boarding platforms on the roof. A Harken TR-31 safety rail will be installed on handrails on the sides and around the front of the wheelhouse. A control station, along with a powered J-Basket rescue system for pilot rescue operations, will be installed at the transom.