Blount-built Atlantic Pioneer named Boat of the Year

THE ATLANTIC PIONEER, America’s first U.S. flag crew transfer vessel, was voted “Boat of the Year” at the International WorkBoat Show held in New Orleans recently. / COURTESY BLOUNT BOATS INC.
THE ATLANTIC PIONEER, America’s first U.S. flag crew transfer vessel, was voted “Boat of the Year” at the International WorkBoat Show held in New Orleans recently. / COURTESY BLOUNT BOATS INC.

WARREN – The Atlantic Pioneer, the first U.S.-built, wind-farm crew transfer vessel, was voted “Boat of the Year,” at the International WorkBoat Show held recently in New Orleans, according to information from Blount Boats Inc., which built the boat.
The show was held Dec. 1 for the commercial marine industry, highlighting significant boats built in 2016.
The Atlantic Pioneer began service for the Deepwater Wind LLC wind farm project – the nation’s first – off the shore of Block Island at the end of May. It can deliver 16 technicians, along with three crew and 12 tons of equipment directly to the base of the turbine or offshore platform.
The 21-meter twin-hulled, all-aluminum catamaran was designed by South Boats IOW (Isle of Wight) and also can carry up to 47 passengers through its dual certification as a USCG Subchapter T (Small Passenger) vessel. Its Subchapter L (Offshore Supply Vessel) designation allows it to carry up to 16 offshore workers.

The vessel exceeded its contractual performance, reaching sprint speeds in excess of 30 knots, with the ability to cruise at 80 percent power at 26 knots when in a light condition, according to Blount.
The Atlantic Pioneer is owned by Rhode Island Fast Ferry, a seasonal water-transportation company.
Fast Ferry, through its commercial offshore-wind support arm Atlantic Wind Transfers, has contracted a 20-year charter with Deepwater Wind to support the construction and operation of the wind farm.
Fast Ferry President and CEO Charles A. Donadio Jr. invested $4 million in the Atlantic Pioneer. The vessel was delivered last April to Atlantic Wind Transfers.

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