Gladding-Hearn Launches Vessel for Northeast Pilots

The Northeast Marine Pilots took delivery of a new Chesapeake-class launch from Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding, Duclos Corporation. The vessel joins the pilots’ four-boat fleet, operating from Newport, Rhode Island. 

With a deep-V hull designed by C. Raymond Hunt Associates, the all-aluminum pilot boat measures 53 feet overall, with a 17-foot beam and a 4.8-foot draft. The new launch features twin Caterpillar C-12 diesels, each rated at 454 Bhp at 2,100 rpm. Loaded top speed is about 21 knots. The engines turn 5-blade NiBrAl propellers via Twin Disc MGX-5114A marine gears with 2:1 reverse/reduction ratios. The vessel is equipped with a 12kW Northern Lights genset.

The launch includes heated handrails and decks to prevent ice build-up in the winter and wide side decks. At the transom are throttle and steering controls, and a winch-operated, rotating davit over a recessed platform for pilot rescue operations. The heated and air-conditioned wheelhouse and forecastle is equipped with reclining Llebroc seats, bunks, galley, and an enclosed head.