Article

New Pilot Boat for the Alabama’s Mobile Bar Pilots by Gladding-Hearn

published on 24 June 2022 - 108 -

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Alabama’s Mobile Bar Pilots has awarded Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding of Somerset, Massachusetts, a contract for a new 53-foot (16-metre) pilot boat.

The Ray Hunt-designed all-aluminium vessel will be powered by two Caterpillar C18 diesels that deliver a maximum speed of 25 knots and a cruising speed of 20 knots. The transom will have a secondary set of steering controls and an MOB recovery system.

The boat is scheduled for delivery in the middle of 2023.

Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding

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Article Gladding-Hearn Delivers Sixth High-Speed Launch to Delta Pilots

by Marine-Pilots.com - published on 15 July 2020

Delta Launch Services, the operating company for the Associated Branch pilots on the SW Pass of the Mississippi, has taken delivery of a new pilot boat from Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding, Duclos Corporation. This is the sixth St. John’s Class launch built for the Delta pilots by the Somerset, Mass. shipyard.

Article Pilot Boat "Tampa": Repowering After 19 Years of Continuous Service

published on 18 October 2022

The Tampa Bay pilot association has returned its first Chesapeake Class pilot boat to Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding. Tampa was built in 2003 when the shipyard introduced the class of mid-size, high-speed launches.

Video "Gladding-Hearn Chesapeake Class Pilot Boat Review

published on 23 May 2025

Join Sir Boats Yacht as we take you aboard the legendary Gladding-Hearn Chesapeake Class Pilot Boat 🚤—a true workhorse of the seas! In just 7 minutes, we break down everything you need to know about this powerful, durable, and mission-critical vessel. From design to interior, performance to customization, this boat is a perfect example of world-class marine engineering ⚓ Whether you're a maritime professional, boat lover, or just curious about the vessels guiding mega-ships safely to port,...

Video Behind the Scenes on the Tyne Pilot Boat

published on 14 April 2025

Join me for an action-packed day aboard the pilot boat on the River Tyne! From sunrise to sunset, we guide massive ships safely into port, working right in the heart of the action. Get up close as we put pilots on board, ride the waves, and experience the beauty of the Tyne like never before. Whether you're a maritime enthusiast or just love seeing life at sea, this behind-the-scenes look at the pilot boat crew is not to be missed!
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Video Various Marine Pilots Northeastern Caribbean

published on 29 January 2026

*Testing out a new camcorder. A Canon Vixia HFG70. Picture is fantastic. Shot in 1920x1080p at 60FPS. However, the external (add-on) microphone is terrible. Going to replace it with a much better one.*
Marine pilots boarding the ms Eurodam in three locations. Nassau, Bahamas. Amber Cover, Dominican Republic. Half Moon Cay, Bahamas. Did you know that Grand Turk does not have a pilot? I did not know that. Enjoy.
Yes I know I made the "Bahamas" possessive. It's a mistake.

Video Old Nelson pilot boat as RC Model

published on 29 September 2020

RC Nelson pilot boat

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Article Southeast Alaska Pilots’ simulator exam, May 22-28, 2021

published on 7 February 2021

Southeast Alaska Pilots’ is running a third simulator exam May 24-28 with the written exam May 22, 2021. This exam is open to new applicants and those that were not able to attend the previous exam. Those that tested in October or December 2020 will not be eligible