Key details

Current boat name
n/a
Boat class
7385
Function
Military
Type

Dimensions and specifications

Length (m / ft)
5.49 / 16ft
Beam (m / ft)
1.7 / 5ft 7in
Propulsion
Engine

Design and build

Date of build
1942
Place of build
Vancouver, Canada

Current status

Present use
Sailing

History

This 16ft Fast Motor Dinghy is one of many built under licence in Canada for Royal Navy - only a few of the type are known to have survived. At some stage in its career it was transferred to the RAF and was used by the RAF at the flying boat base, ferrying crews out to Sunderland and Catalina flying boats. Sold to a private owner in mid 1950’ s and used as a safety boat during the construction of Regent (later Texaco, now Chevron)Refinery Jetty. Donated to West Wales Maritime Heritage Society in late 80’s in very poor state. Restored by member operating independently, but under the umbrella of the society. Originally had Meadows engine, but this was found to be beyond repair once restoration commenced. Hull construction hard chine, upper side clinker construction, but double diagonal below waterline. Used by the society in pilotage, convoy formation and safety boat roles at events organised entirely by the society or working with other organisations. Such as the Milford Haven Port Authority. GH Oct 2012