Louisiana pilots order Chesapeake-class launch from Gladding-Hearn

Gh Louisiana Federal Pilots Pb Cc Rendering

(SOMERSET, Mass.) – The Associated Federal Pilots in Metairie, La., has ordered a Chesapeake-class pilot boat from Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding. The pilots’ first launch, built by the Massachusetts-based shipyard, is scheduled for delivery in July 2021.

Since the Chesapeake-class pilot boat was introduced by the shipyard in 2003, 21 have been delivered to 12 pilot associations throughout the United States. With a deep-V hull designed by Ray Hunt Design, the new all-aluminum launch measures 52.6 feet overall, with a 16.8-foot beam and a 3.10-foot draft. The vessel is powered by twin Volvo Penta D-16 EPA Tier 3-certified diesel engines, each producing 641 bhp at 1,800 rpm. The top speed is expected to reach over 26 knots. A Humphree interceptor trim control system, with its automatic trim optimization, will be installed at the transom.

The engines will turn five-blade Bruntons nibral propellers via ZF 500-1A gearboxes. The launch will be equipped with a 9-kW Northern Lights genset.

The vessel’s wheelhouse, with a small trunk, is being installed amidships on a flush deck. With forward-leaning front windows and the helm station on center, the wheelhouse will be outfitted with six Llebroc pilot seats, a bench seat behind them, and built-in cabinetry. The forecastle will include a split upholstered settee/bunk, porta-potty, shelving and storage space for safety gear. The interior will be cooled by two 16,000-BTU reverse-cycle HVAC units.

Outside of the wheelhouse are wide side decks and two raised boarding platforms on the bow. A ladder aft on the wheelhouse will lead to hinged boarding platforms on the roof. A control station will be located near the stepped transom, along with a winch-operated rotating davit system over a recessed platform, for pilot rescue operations.

– Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding

Gh Louisiana Federal Pilots Pb Cc Rendering

 

By Professional Mariner Staff