Wednesday, Jan 21, 2026
Engineered for Response. The New Baltimore Class Pilot Boat. Powered by Volvo Penta this next generation aluminum pilot vessel is made for year round harbor performance. Built by Gladding Hearn this new launch enhances the Maryland Pilot fleet with higher speed and improved cold weather resilience. Driven by twin Volvo Penta D13 engines, this purpose built launch delivers fast, reliable pilot transfer capability in all conditions. Powered by Volvo Penta and engineererd for sustainability, speed and stability.
The Association of Maryland Pilots has taken delivery of a new Baltimore Class pilot launch from Gladding Hearn Shipbuilding. A sistership to the first vessel delivered four years earlier, the new high-speed craft continues the evolution of the pilots’ purpose-built fleet. Constructed with an all-aluminum hull and based on the proven Ray Hunt deep V design, the launch measures 48.5 feet in length with a 15.6-foot beam and a 4-foot draft. Powered by twin Volvo Penta D13 diesel engines, the vessel delivers a top speed of approximately 30 knots, offering faster response capability than many larger offshore pilot boats.
Optimized for demanding harbor operations, the boat is engineered to withstand Baltimore’s extreme seasonal conditions. Heated decks, windows, and handrails, combined with a 40,000 BTU HVAC system and a recirculating engine-cooling loop for ice operations, support year-round reliability. On deck, wide side passages, shock-mitigating seating, and a powered J Basket recovery system enable safe and rapid pilot retrieval, with recovery times of under 10 seconds. A Humphree interceptor system with automatic trim optimization and Bruntons 5-blade NiBrAl propellers contribute to efficient handling and maneuverability.
Powered by Volvo Penta
For mission critical operations when power meets purpose and every second matters, Volvo Penta delivers the reliability and uptime that first responders depend on. From fire suppression and hazard mitigation to evacuation and aircraft rescue, Volvo Penta industrial off road engines are engineered to perform under pressure. Developed using shared innovations from across the Volvo Group, these engines are built on a common platform, ensuring operator familiarity, streamlined installation, and simplified service access. Designed for consistent power and long-term durability, Volvo Penta engines are suited to a wide range of industrial applications where performance cannot be compromised. Engineered for Response. Volvo Penta and the Rosenbauer Panther.
Volvo Penta benefits from the strength of Global Volvo Logistic, the same world? class supply chain that supports Volvo Trucks, Volvo Buses, and Volvo Construction Equipment. This ensures fast, reliable access to parts and service across the entire dealer network. Based in Adelaide, we are strategically positioned to enhance this aftermarket support for Australian operators. Our focus is on maximizing uptime, improving operational efficiency, and helping reduce Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) through sustainable practices and community minded service.
We are strategically positioned to deliver sustainable product support and service. With direct access to major Australian road, rail, and air transport routes, we help reduce your carbon footprint while ensuring rapid delivery and reliable supply. As your local authorised Volvo Penta procurement and fulfilment centre, we create value through sustainability, culture, and performance. For more than 50 years, we have been here for you. We are Don Morton Marine.
- For patrol and law enforcement vessels
- For sea rescue and emergency response craft
- For pilot boats and harbor service vessel
About the Baltimore Class Pilot Boat
- Hull construction: All aluminum, Ray Hunt deep V design
- Length: 48.5 feet
- Beam: 15.6 feet
- Draft: 4 feet
- Propulsion: Twin Volvo Penta D13 diesel engines
- Top speed: Approximately 30 knots
Volvo Penta At Sea
On your Leisure Boat or at the controls of a Patrol Boat, River Transport, Fishing Charter or Offshore Support vessel. For genuine parts stocked in Australia. For Engine, Shield or Drive. For features and services such as Volvo Penta Easy Connect. For Sales, Service and Technical Support. Volvo Penta marine propulsion engines are designed to provide unmatched power ensuring a smooth and enjoyable boating experience. Through our powerful partnership with Volvo Penta, as your authorised dealer you always get a custom tailored solution based on your marine leisure or marine commercial operational needs.
For the full story on Volvo Penta Marine products and Volvo Penta Future Ready Engines visit the Volvo Penta website or contact your nearest Volvo Penta Network Dealer or Don Morton Power & Propulsion today. Information contained within the article and rights of use remain the property of www.marinelink.com, Volvo Penta, the Volvo Group and Volvo Group Media Relations. Image copyright Volvo Penta. No matter where in the world your journey takes you, no matter here your operation is , Volvo Penta is never far away.
Transparency. Respect. Trust. For Volvo Penta Network Sales, Service and Technical Support. With over 5,000 locally stocked spare parts - and direct OEM global access to thousands of more, we can help you future-proof your supply chain today. Browse the Volvo Penta Accessories Catalog. Search Volvo Penta Operator Manuals. Find your Volvo Penta Serial Number. Send us a Parts Supply Message with Volvo Penta Custom Quotes. Keep up to date with our News and Media Blog. Volvo Penta Marine and Industrial Spare Parts Stocked in Australia. Fast and Convenient Online Ordering. Fast Delivery. Shop for Volvo Penta Parts with your local Australian Volvo Penta network partner. On land and at sea for over 50 years. We are Don Morton Power & Propulsion.
Explore genuine parts, expert service, and trusted support. Find you local Volvo Penta Dealer. From Adelaide, Perth, Darwin, Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Hobart and beyond. The Volvo Penta authorized dealer network extends from Sydney Harbour, Northbridge, Casuarina, Fortitude Valley,Hawthorn, North Haven and more. Use the Volvo Penta Dealer Locator to find support near you.
You can find a Volvo Penta dealer using the official Volvo Penta website or the dealer locator link provided by regional distributors. You can access the offical Volvo Penta webiste and the Volvo Penta Dealer locator by clicking on the button link above. The official Volvo Penta website has a global dealer locator, and regional sites, like the one for Oceania, and also offers specific local dealer lists and search tools. Additionally, you can download the Volvo Penta Dealer Locator app for iOS for on-the-go access.
In the Oceania region, Volvo Penta headquarters is situated in Australia and provides comprehensive global service and support through an extensive network of more than 100 dealers. Serving Adelaide, Perth, Darwin, Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Hobart and beyond. The Volvo Penta Oceania presence of Volvo Penta receives additional support from a global organization or dealerships with a logistics network that help safeguard marine and industrial applications.
Volvo Penta is a Swedish marine and industrial engine manufacturer. Part of the Volvo Group, Volvo Penta is a global leader in marine and industrial engine technology. Stay up to date with the latest news, accessories, and service kits from your local dealer. Shop genuine Volvo Penta parts - filters, impellers, trim systems, and engine accessories, with fast delivery and expert advice and trusted support from Don Morton Power & Propulsion, your local authorized Volvo Penta dealer.
Local Volvo Penta Dealers include:
Don Morton Marine
Trading as Don Morton Power & Propulsion
Authorised Volvo Penta Distribution Centre
70 Humphries Terrace, Kilkenny SA 5009
Phone: (08) 8347 0011
donmorton.com.au
Anthony Squire Diesel Services
35 Woodlands Terrace, Edwardstown SA 5039
Phone: (08) 8277 1825
anthonysquirediesel.com.au
Ashbrook Diesel
14 Elizabeth St, Port Macdonnell SA 5291
Phone: (08) 8738 2028
ashbrookdiesel.facebook
Can Do Marine
38 Chatfield Terrace, Wallaroo SA 5556
Phone: (08) 8823 3025
coppercoastmarinecentre.com.au
Sawley's Auto and Marine
33 Kennett Street, Kadina SA 5554
Phone: + 61 0412 532 984
sawleysautoandmarine.com.au
West Coast Diesel Service
32 St Andrews Terrace, Port Lincoln SA 5606
Phone: (08) 8682 1753
westcoastdiesel.com.au
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