Deck framework progresing well
The RB boatbuilding team has been busy!
The oak deck framework is coming together well. The deck beams and carlins will be varnished before the mamoth task of painting inside. Also check out John's website at www.pilotcutter.co.uk
Pilot cutter faired and painted
The hull of the new RB boatbuilding pilot cutter is finally fair and looking great with charcoal grey hull and varnished oak wale strake, next will come the deck frame.
Pilot cutter engine beds
Tim has fitted the oak and steel engine beds ready to accept the 75hp Beta marine diesel. Note the ballast pigs soon to be cemented over.
Fast sailing in round Lundy race
Thembi, the 35' cutter built by us in 2005 had a fast race round Lundy on midsummers day. She crossed the line second in class and had brilliant sails to and from Ilfracombe, in often very windy conditions.
Pilot Cutter Ballast
We have begun ballasting the new pilot cutter, before the final planks are fitted. It's much easier to lift the weights in through an open hull rather than up and over the side. 11 tons overall will comprise 4.5 tons scrap lead - flattened to fit hull (see photo), 5 tons steel billets and 1.5 tons cement to provide a smooth bilge.
Tim will weld and install the engine beds prior to placing the cement.
Tim will weld and install the engine beds prior to placing the cement.
Planking continues
The planking has continued steadilly and we will shortly place the ballast, before the hull is closed.
Bristol channel pilot cutter planking begins
The planking has now begun on the new pilot cutter. Two teams will plank from the top down and the bottom up respectively. The beam shelves and stringers are already in place.
Bristol channel pilot cutter in frame
We have been standing the oak frames on the keel and copper rivetting these to the floor timbers. The frames were rough cut last year and have now been bevelled to accept planking.

