Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding has delivered Outward Bound back to Boston Harbor following a major refit at the Massachusetts shipyard.
The shipyard built the JW Gilbert Associates-designed vessel in 1995 to transport visitors and supplies seasonally to the Cathleen Stone Island Outward Bound School in Boston Harbor.
As work commenced, more hull and deck plating wasting was uncovered than expected and the project grew to include not only a re-engine, but work on shafting, propeller, mechanical systems, and a new paint job. According to Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding President Peter Duclos, the refit of the 64ʹ steel ferry was still less expensive than replacing the vessel, which remains well suited to the operator’s needs.
The newly installed Mitsubishi S6B3 Tier 3 engine operates at 1,940 rpm. The new engine is connected to a Twin Disc MG-5114, 3:1 gearbox and delivers a top speed of 11 knots. The refit also included a new shaft and propeller, modifications to the engine bed, and replacement of the exhaust, cooling, and ventilation systems to accommodate the larger engine.
Gladding-Hearn’s team fully sandblasted and surveyed the hull before completing extensive replating. Doors, windows, and hatches were inspected, tested, and repaired as needed, while the interior and exterior received a new coating system.