The standard hull of the Dell Quay dory, referred to on page 464, has been used in the R.N.L.I.'s new experimental boat, but it has been strengthened to enable it to take the steering console.

The hull is of composite construction comprising a hull moulding of glass reinforced plastic (G.R.P.) averaging 9 oz. per sq. ft. with local stiffening in stress areas and a deck moulding of 7 oz. per sq. ft. The cavity between the two mouldings is filled under pressure with rigid polyurethane foam of a density of 2.4 Ib. per cu. ft. The transom has a solid marine ply core 1J in. thick bonded to hull and deck laminates.

The steering console is constructed from aluminium, although if quantity production is decided on, a G.R.P. moulding will be used. Two 18-gal. petrol tanks are incorporated in the base of the console and above them is a locker for equipment.

ONE ENGINE CAPABILITY Each engine has a separate steering cable, the engines only being connected at the wheel. This enables the boat to be run with one engine tilted, so that in the event of damage or failure of one engine the performance does not suffer too much. The steering gear is by Morse and the engine controls are Morse single lever. The engines have manual starting, the complication of electric starting being thought unnecessary in this boat.

The statistics and dimensions of the boat are as follows: length 17 ft.; beam 7 ft.; draft 8 in. (motors raised); 18 in. (motors lowered); displacement 1,030 Ib.; integral reserve buoyancy 3,000 Ib.; maximum speed 25 knots (with two crew); maximum speed with one engine, 15 knots; fuel capacity 36 gal.; fuel consumption (estimated) 8 gall, per hour; range (estimated) 110 miles..