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Just Launched: Wilbur 46

A dream becomes a reality

By John K. Hanson, Jr.
Wilbur 46
Scroll down to view more images and a video by Jamie Bloomquist
Launch Details:
Model:
Wilbur 46
Boat Name:
Betsy
Specs:
LOA 46'1", LWL 44'8", Beam 14'7", Draft 4'6"
Power:
1,015-hp Caterpillar C18
Built by:
Wilbur Yachts, Southwest Harbor, Maine
Particulars: Every once in awhile a project comes along that incorporates all the benefits that a Maine-built boat can deliver. The Betsy, launched by Wilbur Yachts on May 15, 2010, after a close to three-year-long building process was one of those projects. As the boat's owner, Dr. Klein said, “This project combines the classic lines of a Maine lobsterboat with modern technology judiciously implemented to produce a 'green' boat.” Toward that end, the Betsy's Caterpillar diesel was designed with electronic modules that allow the captain to drive the vessel in the most fuel-efficient manner, effectively burning the same amount of fuel that an engine one-quarter the size would burn. Using the tried-and-true technology of hand-laid-up solid fiberglass hulls, the Betsy rides smoothly and quietly at displacement speeds yet can still deliver a top speed of about 27 knots. In addition, the boat has solar panels and a fuel cell to power LED lights and keep the batteries topped off while spending extended time on the hook.
Wilbur 46 Sketch
Overall, this collaboration, took more than 3,500 e-mails and counting, not to mention 15 round trips between Maine and Los Angeles. The result? Careful planning plus attention to detail equals one beautiful boat.
End of Story
Contact: Wilbur Yachts 200 Seawall Road Southwest Harbor ME, 04679 207-244-5000 e-mail: office@wilburyachts.com website: www.wilburyachts.com

Information and specifications supplied by the builder. Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy. However, Maine Boats, Homes & Harbors, Inc. accepts no liability in the event of any errors of fact or omission.

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