Vigor to Build Pair for LA Port Pilots

Shipbuilder Vigor said it has been awarded a contract from the Port of Los Angeles to build two 56’ pilot boats.

The new vessels, designed by Camarc, will feature a twin chine heavy weather hull form for excellent seakeeping. The design accommodates multiple heavy fender systems facilitating safer pilot transfers in challenging weather. An articulated rescue davit provides man overboard recovery. The overall design also maximizes the available horsepower and performance from a Tier III (non-catalyst) level engine.

“Vigor is excited to be able to offer these pilot boats to the dedicated professionals of the LA Port Pilots,” said Art Parker, Vigor sales manager. “Camarc has optimized this design to incorporate the significant seakeeping and safety of the larger pilot boats. The American mid-sized market has needed a world-class pilot boat at an acceptable acquisition and maintenance cost. This is without a doubt a proven break-through design.”

Vigor expects to complete construction of the boats by late summer of 2020.

Principal Characteristics
All Aluminum Construction
Accommodates 2 crew/8 pilots
Designer: Camarc Design
Max speed: 27 knots
Cruise speed: 24 knots
Length, Overall: 55 ft – 4 in
Beam, Overall: 16 ft- 5 in
Fender System:  Heavy Weather integrated Popsafe fender
Design Displacement:  61,000 lbs
Fuel Oil Capacity:  660 gal
Freshwater Capacity: 66 gal
Engine:  Twin CAT C18 ACERT
Engine Rating:  803 bhp @ 2,100 rpm
Emission compliance:  EPA Tier III, meets current CARB Commercial Harbor Craft emission requirements. (Non-Catalyst)
Transmission: ZF665A-1
Type:  5 bladed fixed pitched
Material: NiBrAl
GENSET:  Northern Lights M844DW3
Rating:  16 kW, 120/240 VAC, 60 Hz
Furuno navigation/electronics system