Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding, Duclos Corporation, has been awarded a contract to build a rigid-bottom, soft-sided pilot boat from the Lake Pilots Association.
The Resilient-class high-speed launch is the Port Huron, Mich.-based Lake Pilots' third boat built by the Somerset, Mass., shipyard since 1979.
Designed by Ray Hunt Design, the jet-driven, all-aluminum launch measures 42.5' overall. It has a 14' beam, including the hybrid foam/air collar, and a shoal 2.5' draft.
The deep-V hull features a steep 24-degree dead-rise at the transom that increases to a very fine entry forward. A flat chine and multiple spray-rails provide an efficient running surface and deflect spray away from the collar to produce a dryer rise and reduce collar maintenance. The perimeter of the launch will be fitted with large foam-collar fendering system. A heavy-duty pipe guard will be installed across the transom, along with a grating platform above the launch’s waterjets.
The new RIB is powered by twin Cummins QSL-9 diesel engines, which are fully accessible through large lift-assisted deck hatches. The engines, each rated at 450 Bhp, at 2,100 rpm, turn a pair of Hamilton Jet HJ-322 waterjets through Twin Disc gearboxes. Fuel capacity is 300 gals. A Zipwake interceptor trim-control system will be installed on the transom. Top speed will reach over 32 knots.
An aluminum pilothouse on a flush deck, with forward-leaning front windows, will be set aft of amidships with 18" walk-around side decks. Access to the pilothouse will be through the aft hinged door. The pilothouse will have five Llebroc Stalker XT seats – four pilot seats and one helm seat – and a control console with instruments and controls. Four 12-volt Hella turbo fans will be installed in the pilothouse to provide air circulation. A Porta Potty will be installed in the forecastle. The launch will be outfitted entirely with LED lighting.
