64 Defiant
Typical Specifications
LOA: 64’
BOA: 21’
Propulsion: Twin diesel inboard straight shafts, water jets, or pods
For detailed specifications, contact us today.
The Metal Shark 64 Defiant Pilot is a welded aluminum monohull vessel combining Metal Shark’s globally proven Defiant-class hull form with an efficient crew-friendly layout designed specifically for pilots. The 64 Defiant offers enhanced seakeeping, extended range, and large crew capacity, all in a comfortable layout designed to enhance safety and efficiency while reducing fatigue. Metal Shark knows that each pilot association has its own challenges and requires a pilot boat custom-built to its requirements. That’s why every 64 Defiant Pilot vessel is fully tailored to meet the specific needs of the customer.
Hull Design & Construction
The 64 Defiant Pilot features a proven Metal Shark hull design that has been engineered and built to precise tolerances. To achieve its superior hull life rating, the vessel’s hull, deck, and superstructure are composed entirely of heavy, welded plates of premium 5086 aluminum-magnesium alloy. The Defiant-class running surface has been designed for maximum efficiency and performance. This efficiency, combined with the 64 Pilot’s durable construction, results in the lowest possible operating cost while at the same time assuring maximum performance. Thanks to its wide beam, pronounced reverse chines, and ample heft, the 64 Defiant Pilot is exceptionally stable while underway, at rest, and most importantly, during pilot transfer maneuvers. Metal Shark 64 Defiant shown here configured for Brazos Pilots Association and equipped with twin 803-horsepower Caterpillar C-18 diesel engines coupled to Twin Disc MGX5146SC transmissions and turning five-bladed 36” x 43” Nibral propellers. To meet specific mission requirements, the 64 Defiant may be equipped with inboards, water jets, or pod propulsion systems.
Deck Layout
Metal Shark’s Defiant-class pilot boat layout has been designed to offer maximum functionality and crew comfort. The flush deck eliminates tripping hazards and enables fast transit around the boat. Strategically placed grab rails provide continuous handholds for transiting around the cabin or riding/working on the forward and aft decks. All grab rails and hand holds are placed to meet specific customer requirements. Nonskid coating on the walking surfaces further enhances crew safety. Large quick-acting hatches provide easy access to the bilges and storage spaces. Oversized port and starboard side walkways provide easy access forward and aft. The 64 Defiant may be equipped with the forward bow-mounted boarding platform as shown, or, a rooftop boarding platform with ladders on either side of the house and from the aft deck which enables safe and easy transit from the vessel to ships at sea. Boarding platforms are built to suit and are designed to accommodate the full range of operator needs. A Wing solid foam collar surrounds the craft providing protection during alongside maneuvers, while the low-profile full-width swim platform allows easy access to the water for man overboard situations. A removable Jason’s cradle is included, and an aft deck davit may be added.
Pilothouse
Metal Shark’s signature “pillarless” glass pilothouse sets the industry standard for visibility and safety. Proven extensively on Metal Shark’s military and law enforcement patrol boats, Metal Shark has enhanced this technology for its pilot customers by employing reverse-angled glass to reduce solar exposure and the ensuing heat load. Metal Shark’s pillarless glass drastically improves the view from the helm by reducing the dangerous blind spots commonly found on conventional pilothouse vessels. Pilots enjoy a nearly-unobstructed 360-degree view from a Metal Shark pilothouse which greatly enhances safety, especially while on night missions or operating during other periods of reduced visibility. Metal Shark’s extensive use of shock and vibration mitigation technology reduces crew fatigue, further enhancing comfort and safety.
Pilothouse Arrangement
The 64 Defiant Pilot’s helm arrangement places the operator front-and-center in an elevated shock-mitigating helm seat with all controls within easy reach. Shown here, shock-mitigating seating has been provided for five crew members, with a footrest, cup holder, gooseneck light, and 110V USB plug at each seating position for comfort and convenience. A settee and table are also provided in the main cabin. Large windows and Metal Shark’s use of Pillarless Glass allow all passengers to enjoy enhanced visibility.
Crew Accommodations
The 64 Defiant Pilot’s fully customizable spacious below-decks crew quarters are accessed via a stairway in the wheelhouse and a watertight access hatch in the foredeck. Accommodations include a galley area with microwave, coffee maker, refrigerator, and sink; an enclosed head compartment; double-tiered set of lockers for crew storage; and a berthing area with double bunk, drawer storage, and a 4K LED TV with Blu Ray player and KVH TracVision TV3 satellite television system. From the counter tops to ceiling panels and flooring, modern finishes are used to create a bright and airy, comfortable atmosphere for crews onboard for extended periods. Like all Metal Sharks, each aspect of the 64 Defiant Pilot’s belowdecks accommodations may be tailored to suit the unique mission profile of each operator.
Outstanding Performance
The 64 Defiant hull has been specifically balanced to assure that it steers a straight course and turns predictably and safely. This design inherently increases the ability of the crew to operate safely during piloting maneuvers. Well-developed running strakes and a warped bottom plate ensure the craft carries the bow well and prevents unnecessary pounding and spray. At all speeds the 64 Defiant Pilot maintains a steady inboard heel and comes smartly back to level when returned to a steady course. The parent craft Defiant series boats have been extensively tested by both the US Coast Guard and US Navy to meet military maneuvering requirements, including ABYC line, Quick Turn and backing trials.
Custom Capability
Metal Shark’s large in-house team of naval architects works directly with pilot associations to tailor each Metal Shark pilot boat to meet the challenges and demands of its intended operating environment. Whether the job calls for straight-shaft inboards, water jets, or pods, Metal Shark can deliver an efficient and reliable solution. We work with virtually all major marine industry OEMs and offer many equipment choices. Our pilot boats are available with a wide range of fendering solutions. Boarding platforms are configured per customer spec, and all railings are pilot specific. Crew accommodations such as galleys, heads, and dinettes are all built to suit. Pilot boats may be equipped with the full range of available fire fighting systems, CBRNE crew protection systems, or other integrated technology for fire rescue response, port security, or other multi-purpose use. Shown here for the Brazos Pilots Association, a large transfer platform was engineered into the vessel’s foredeck with specifically-configured safety rails for easy reach at all times. We invite you to contact Metal Shark today to begin the process of designing a Metal Shark pilot boat for your team.