The 38 Defiant features a proven Metal Shark hull design that has been engineered and built to precise tolerances. To achieve its superior hull life rating of 30+ years, the hull is composed entirely of heavy, welded plates of premium-grade 5086 aluminum alloy. The 38 Defiant delivers a smooth ride in a wide range of conditions, and safely and capably handles rough seas. Whether fitted with triple outboards, twin diesel waterjets, or conventional straight shafts, the 38 Defiant’s advanced running surface delivers outstanding performance, and its 11’ 5” beam allows for extra stability while at rest. The product of advanced engineering, the 38 Defiant boasts a modern, crew friendly design that enhances crew comfort, safety, and operability.

The 38 Defiant’s spacious pilothouse provides all-weather comfort and security for the entire crew, and thanks to Metal Shark’s signature Pillarless Glass pilothouse, it also offers best-in-class safety and visibility. Metal Shark implemented this design in order to significantly reduce the dangerous blind spots that are so prevalent in conventional pilothouse vessels, and the results are immediately apparent upon stepping aboard.

Inside the pilothouse, the entire crew benefits from the massive windows, overhead skylights, and large opening side and aft doors. Self-parking windshield wipers and window defrosters maintain visibility during inclement weather. The spacious port and starboard helm areas easily accommodate a wide array of custom-installed electronics, with additional mounting space available in the overhead electronics pod.

Aft of the pilothouse, the 38 Defiant boasts a massive, wide-open working deck, with ample room for backboards or other equipment. Large, securely-latched hatches open to reveal the 38 Defiant’s roomy engine compartment, and gasketed dry storage lockers have been provided to port and starboard. Other notable features shown here include the optional machine gun mount and towing bit, line spool, and tubular aluminum swim platform with dive ladder.

Regardless of configuration, Metal Shark’s fanatical attention to detail is evident throughout, and all components are built to withstand a lifetime of use and abuse. Shown here are the 38 Defiant’s industrial grade welded cleats and forward towing bit, massive anchor locker, and 50-caliber machine gun mount, all crafted from corrosion resistant 5086 aluminum alloy. 3M Safety Walk non-skid has been generously applied to all walking surfaces, and the durable foam-filled collar that provides low-maintenance impact resistance during alongside maneuvers or while docking.

The 38 Defiant shown here is equipped with twin Cummins 6.7L diesels mated to Hamilton 292 waterjets. This package delivers the reliability and economy of inboard diesels, plus the shallow-draft capability and maneuverability of water jet propulsion. By utilizing the water jet’s split-duct thrust-reversing “buckets,” the vessel can be brought from planing speed to a full stop within two boat lengths. Pivoting, turning, crabbing sideways, and other maneuvers are accomplished with ease. Top speed with this package approaches 40 knots.

The 38 Defiant pilot boat shown here is equipped with twin inboard straight-shaft diesels. This setup delivers economy and durable, dependable operation, easily serviceable anywhere in the world with basic tools and training. Available inboard power options includes twin Cat, Cummins, Volvo, and MTU options. Propulsion can be in the form of conventional shaft drive, waterjet, or pod propulsion systems. Note the shortened cabin and larger aft cockpit also shown on this configuration.

The 38 Defiant shown here is equipped with triple Mercury Verado 300 HP four-stroke gasoline outboard engines. This setup delivers higher top speeds and costs considerably less than the diesel waterjet setup, and offers the advantage of a compact, self-contained propulsion system installed completely outside of the boat. Set up as equipped, this vessel reaches a top speed of 50 knots. As an OEM installer for all major outboard manufacturers, Metal Shark can install the engine brand you prefer. Other noteworthy features shown here are the engine protection bar, port and starboard dive reliefs, and full bow rail.

The Metal Shark 38 Defiant is a popular vessel for use in fire rescue or CBRNE response missions. Click to view the 38 Defiant in Fire/CBRNE configuration. Metal Shark is an engineering-centric company with its own in-house design firm composed of highly trained naval architects and marine engineers. Accordingly, we are highly capable when it comes to customizing vessels to meet even the most demanding mission requirements. From fire rescue, CBRNE disaster response, pilot boats, dive boats, hydrographic survey boats, crew boats and more, the team at Metal Shark stands ready and able to deliver.

For more information about this or any other Metal Shark model, we invite you to contact us today.