USA: Kvichak Marine to Build a Pilot Vessel for SWAPA

Kvichak Marine Industries, of Seattle, WA, was recently awarded a contract to build a 50’ x 15.5’ pilot vessel for the Southwest Alaska Pilots Association (SWAPA). SWAPA provides pilotage service in the coastal areas of South Central Alaska.

Designed by Kvichak Marine, the all-aluminum vessel will be powered by twin CAT C18 ACERT tier II engines rated for 715 BHP coupled to Twin Disc MGX-5135SC marine gears. Hamilton 364 waterjets are the chosen propulsors. This combination allows for excellent maneuverability and a top speed of ~ 32 knots. The vessel will have a Wing Hybrid fendering system.

Delivery is scheduled for June 2013

Additional vessel features include:

• Overall length: 52.3’

• Beam, overall: 15.5’

• Draft (RFS): 2.75’

• Fuel capacity: 500 gallons

• Integrated navigation system

• Northern Lights 20 kW generator

• Climate controlled pilot house

• 2 crew and 4 passengers

• Deck heating

• Handrail heating

[mappress]

Press Release, February 22, 2013