Maryland pilots order new class of boat from Gladding-Hearn

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The following is text of a news release from Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding:

(SOMERSET, Mass.) — The Association of Maryland Pilots has ordered a new class of pilot boat from Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding, Duclos Corp. Called the Baltimore class after the pilots’ base of operations at the Port of Baltimore, the vessel’s delivery is scheduled for April 2021.  
    
With a length overall of 48.5 feet, beam of 15.6 feet, and draft of 4 feet, 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 29 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 ZF 400A gearboxes. The launch will be equipped with a 6-kW Northern Lights genset.
    
The wheelhouse, flush-mounted to the deck amidships, features a center-line helm station, five NorSap shock-mitigating reclining seats, a bag rack, refrigerator and a 16,000-BTU reverse-cycle HVAC unit. A second 12,000-BTU HVAC unit will be installed in the unfinished forecastle, which includes a portable toilet, toolbox and storage for safety gear.
    
Outside of the wheelhouse will be wide heated side decks and handrails, side and rear doors, and boarding platforms on the roof. A Harken safety rail will be installed on the sides and around the front of the wheelhouse. A control station, along with a powered rescue system for pilot rescue operations, is at the transom.      

By Professional Mariner Staff