Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding, Duclos Corporation, Somerset, Mass., announced today the delivery of its latest high-speed pilot boat, Old Dominion, to the Virginia Pilot Association. The all-aluminum monohull is the 10th launch built for the Virginia pilots by the shipyard since 1983.
Designed for service at the Virginia pilots’ Hampton Roads Harbor station, Old Dominion features a new shallow-V hull from Ray Hunt Design. The shipyard said the hull form optimizes speed while minimizing wake, maintaining superior boarding performance. According to Peter Duclos, co-president and director of sales at Gladding-Hearn, the vessel weighs approximately 2,000 pounds less than a similarly sized offshore pilot boat, allowing it to deliver faster acceleration and a higher top speed, exceeding 36 knots.
The 58’4”x18’1” vessel has a 4’4” draft and is powered by twin Volvo Penta D13-800 diesel engines, each producing 800 Bhp at 2300 rpm. The EPA Tier 3 engines drive Volvo Penta IPS 30 propulsion systems, equipped with dual forward-facing, counter-rotating propellers and an integrated exhaust system. Volvo’s EVC integrated electronic steering and control system is installed at both the helm and the aft docking station.
Additionally, a Humphree interceptor trim control system with automatic trim optimization, automatic list control, and coordinated turn control is installed. Electrical power is supplied by a 12kW Alaska Diesel generator.
A lightweight canopy extends approximately seven-feet aft of the pilothouse, providing shelter for small groups. The arrangement accommodates two crew members for overnight or extended stays, with amenities including a small galley, and four Norsap shock-mitigating reclining seats. Below deck, the forecastle houses an enclosed head, two berths, a hanging locker, and storage cubbies for exposure suits. Heated side decks and handrails prevent ice accumulation, ensuring safe movement in cold conditions.
Gladding-Hearn said the Old Dominion is built with pilot transfers in mind. The squared-off bow is equipped with raised vertical fendering and integral steps for facilitated boarding. The docking station is located near the transom, alongside a winch-operated rotating davit system over a recessed platform. A Harken TR-31 safety rail is incorporated for pilot rescue operations.
Electronics were supplied by Cay Electronics Inc. and installed by the shipyard The navigation package includes dual Furuno TZTL16F-15” MFD radar/chart plotters, a Furuno DRS12AXT radar with a 4’ open array, and a Furuno FA-170 AIS system. Communications equipment includes two Standard Horizon GX6000 VHF radios, two handheld VHF units, and Shakespeare Galaxy antennas. Additional features include a FLIR M364 thermal imager, a Furuno LH5000 loudhailer, and a Ritchie Globemaster SS-5000 compass.
The vessel’s climate control system comprises three 16,000 Btu Dometic split reverse-cycle air conditioning units, supplemented by 2000-watt heaters in both the pilothouse and forecastle. The potable water system has a capacity of 25 gals., with a Headhunter Mach5 pressure system, while sewage capacity is managed by a 50 gals. holding tank and a HeadHunter Tidal Wave Type II MSD system.
