Please select your home edition
Edition
Allen Dynamic 40 Leaderboard

Norman R. Wright & Sons launch first of 3 new 14.2m XLW Class Pilot Boats for PNG Ports Corporation

by Norman R. Wright & Sons 25 Mar 2021 05:33 PDT
NRW XLW Class Pilot Boat © Norman R. Wright & Sons

Norman R. Wright & Sons has launched "Siabo" the first of three new custom designed and built 14.2m XLW Class Pilot Boats for PNG Ports Corporation.

"Siabo" is the first boat to hit the water from Wrights featuring their all new Extra Long Waterline (XLW Class) design, which offers optimum seakeeping and efficiency in ALL sea conditions.

The new generation XLW Class Pilot Boat was designed and built from the keel up incorporating a warped planing hull and new production techniques that have resulted in a 3 knot increase in max speed with 100hp less power whilst retaining strength and providing a soft dry ride. Working with the team from ATL Composites, Wright's Naval Architects and Master Tradesmen integrated unique composite construction combining resin infused and pressed GRP cored panels with DNV GL approval.

The design allows for a reduced centre of gravity for superior stability enhancing pilot safety when alongside ships, along with wide, flush, uninterrupted side decks around the entire vessel for optimum safety.

Like most boats built by Wrights, the XLW Class Pilot Boats offer fully customisable cabin, helm and deck layout options, while the vessel can accommodate a variety of engine options to achieve speeds in excess of 30 knots.

"We're delighted with the performance of "Siabo" having conducted a number of sea trials in testing conditions in and outside of Moreton Bay since her launch", said Wright's Managing Director Tony Riek. "We're confident the team at PNG Ports Corporation will be very happy with their new vessels and we're very appreciative of their decision to engage our business to build boats critically important to the growth of our neighbours in PNG", Mr Riek went on to say.

In further positive news for Wrights, Poseidon Sea Pilots has just confirmed an order for two XLW Class Pilot Boats to assist with the management of their contract to provide pilotage services for the Port of Brisbane. A great shot in the arm for the local boat building and marine industries.

For more information visit www.wrightsons.com.au.

Related Articles

Marine Auctions: Special July Online Auction
The bidding will end on Tuesday 22 July at 2pm AEST The alternative way of selling any type of vessel or marine asset with proven and successful results. Posted today at 4:03 am
Teledyne acquires Maretron
Leader in vessel monitoring and control solutions joins Teledyne's Raymarine brand. Teledyne Technologies Incorporated (NYSE:TDY) ("Teledyne") has announced the acquisition of assets of Maretron, including the brand's Octoplex, MPower and MConnect product lines from Littelfuse, Inc. (NASDAQ:LFUS). Posted today at 3:40 am
July 2025 high tide flooding predictions
Predicted to be a relatively quiet month on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts July is predicted to be a relatively quiet month on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts from a flooding perspective, with no locations forecast to have flooding. Posted on 1 Jul
Newport International Boat Show partner announceme
New England's Premier Boat Show to take place September 11-14, 2025 The Newport International Boat Show has announced its partnership with local and national organizations to sponsor this year's Newport International Boat Show presented by BankNewport. Posted on 1 Jul
Avikus and Emerson sign MOU
To integrate Adaptive AI and Autonomous Technologies Avikus, HD Hyundai's specialized Autonomous Navigation Technology subsidiary, has announced that it has signed a MOU with Emerson to integrate its NEUBOAT CONTROL Autonomous System with Emerson's Aventics marine controllers. Posted on 1 Jul
NMMA supports industry letter
Urging commerce to revise Section 232 implementation process The letter emphasizes the need for a more transparent and targeted approach to avoid unintended harm to U.S. manufacturing Posted on 30 Jun
Excess launched the 100th hull of the Excess 14
Behind this hull #100 are more than 70 passionate staff who have put their expertise to work A symbolic milestone for a model that embodies our vision of the catamaran: sharp design, easily gliding through the water, and pleasure at the helm. Posted on 30 Jun
2025 USVI Charter Yacht Show set for November
A rising tide of opportunities for boat crews and brokers A rising tide of opportunities for boat crews and brokers to connect, from one-on-one meet-and-greets to USVI-style social events, is what makes the 2025 USVI Charter Yacht Show a 'must-attend' industry event. Posted on 28 Jun
NMMA Canada hosts successful 2025 Day on the Hill
Building momentum for repeal of luxury tax NMMA Canada wrapped another highly successful Day on the Hill in Ottawa this month, bringing together industry leaders, government officials, and policymakers to advance priorities critical to Canada's recreational boating sector. Posted on 26 Jun
NTG Global Graduate Program
Shape your career and propel yourself into the world of innovation North Technology Group, a global leader in advanced composite technology, is offering an exciting and dynamic graduate program that will shape your career and propel you into the world of innovation. Posted on 26 Jun
Maritimo M600North Sails Loft 57 PodcastSelden 2020 - FOOTER