Sixth High-Speed Launch for Delta Pilots

Delta Launch Services has ordered a new pilot boat from Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding, Duclos Corporation. 

This is the sixth St. John’s Class launch built by the Somerset, Mass. shipyard. Delivery of the new 52-footer is scheduled for July 2020.

The new launch measures of 52.6’ overall, with a beam of 16.11’ and a draft of 4.8’, the all-aluminum pilot boat features the Ray Hunt Designs Deep-V hull. It will be powered by twin Caterpillar C-18 EPA Tier 3 diesel engines, each delivering 671 Bhp at 2100 rpm and a top speed of 24 knots. Twin Disc MG5136A gears will turn five-blade Bruton bronze propellers. The launch will be equipped with a 12kW Northern Lights genset.   

The wheelhouse, with a small trunk, will be flush-mounted to the deck amidships. Aft of its helm station are six Llebroc pilot seats. The forecastle will be equipped with enclosed marine head, settee and three berths. The wheelhouse and forecastle will be heated and cooled by three reverse-cycle air-conditioning units, totaling 40,000 Btu’s. 

Outside of the wheelhouse are wide side decks, a rear and side doors, and hinged  boarding platforms on the roof. At the transom is a winch-operated, rotating davit over a recessed platform for rescue operations.

The new launch will be USCG subchapter T-certified to carry twelve passengers for hire.