This free lance design is based on a proposed craft to be constructed by Vosper Ltd for a sea going, river pilot boat. The high forward cabin is a notable design feature to give all round visibility in congested waters and for spotting flotsam, jetsam, and the odd tree trunk that happens to be a hazard. To get out of the way of these hazards the craft is designed to have outstanding handling and a rapid response to helm and throttle commands.
The full size vessel is designed to be powered by twin turbo charged diesels giving a top speed of 20 knots. The after well, plus the large cabin, give ample space for pilots awaiting vessels and for more volatile parts of the world, space for boarding parties etc.
The basis for this craft was a more economic version of the P.L.4, one of the largest and most powerful pilot launches constructed in the 1950's.
Details of the kit
Scale 1/24 Length 692mm Beam 152mm Sailing weight 1.1kg
The hull is moulded in glass fibre with the chine protection strips part of the moulding. To complete the model all the superstructure parts are vacformed in styrene plastic, along with nicad boxes, engine covers, etc for quick construction.
The plywood deck has a novel and speedy method of construction for simulating the deck planking. As in all of the Deans range of models, a full set of plastic and cast alloy fittings are included in the price of the kit, along with propshaft, tiller arm and tiller.
To assist in the assembly of this attractive launch, a full set of instructions are included with a FULL SIZE plan. To add the final finish, dual painting instructions are included for modern Acrylic car spray paint, or modelling enamels.