Plymouth Pilots FAQs

The capacity of a Plymouth Pilot will depend on which specific model you are looking at. 

• Plymouth Pilot 16′: This model typically accommodates up to 4 people comfortably. 

• Plymouth Pilot 18′: This larger model can hold 6 people. 

• Plymouth Pilot 24′: The largest in the range, it has a capacity for 8 people. 

These capacities can vary depending on how the boat is equipped and configured.

Plymouth Pilot boat rear deck

In a word, yes!  Thanks to their substantial keel and supporting bilge keels, your Plymouth Pilot will be more than comfortable taking to the ground intentionally (or unintentionally!).  As you can see from the picture, she sits perfectly upright and the propeller is protected by a timber skeg.

Yes, you can.  With a correctly set up trailer, launching and recovering a Plymouth Pilot 16’ and 18’ is a breeze.  We would recommend a trailer with rollers for the keel and bunks under the bilge keels to make the process as easy as possible.  The Plymouth Pilot 24’ can also be trailer launched, but due to its size, it is a little more involved!

Absolutely, some of the best boating days can be found over winter.  As long as you have prepared appropriately and wrap up warm!  The cuddys available for all our boats offer excellent protection from the weather and the optional rear privacy cover can act as a temporary bulkhead for even more comfort.  Our Plymouth Pilot 24’ has the option of a diesel heater for those frosty mornings out on the water.  

One of the greatest advantages of a displacement boat is their efficiency through the water.  They are designed to push the water aside as they are propelled forward. Planing counterparts, require additional power to ride on top of the water.  Also, their smooth round profile reduces drag, allowing the boat to glide efficiently through the water, albeit at lower speeds. 

Below is a table of the typical cruising fuel efficiency for the Plymouth Pilots, with their standard engines installed 

Absolutely! A Plymouth Pilot is well-suited for single-handed operation, offering a tranquil and enjoyable experience on the water. Whether you’re opting for the solitude of a solo fishing trip or managing a voyage when your usual boating companion can’t join, the Plymouth Pilot is designed to perform reliably with just one person at the helm. 

With its long keel and large rudder, the boat provides exceptional stability and predictable handling, making it easy to manoeuvre alone. The excellent all-round visibility across the entire Plymouth Pilot range ensures you can confidently navigate without needing additional crew. 

Since each Plymouth Pilot is made to order, you have the flexibility to customise your boat with features that suit your preferences and mooring arrangements, enhancing its suitability for single-handed use. 

We currently offer a choice of Beta Marine or Yanmar diesel engines, as well as ePropulsion electric motors for those seeking a cleaner, quieter and more environmentally friendly option. 

If you have experience with a different engine brand, we’re happy to explore alternative options to find the best fit for your needs. There are a few important things to consider when choosing the right engine, including your familiarity with the engine manufacturer, local support networks, as well as cost and availability of spare parts. 

Our aim is to ensure your Plymouth Pilot is equipped with a reliable and efficient engine that suits your intended use and keeps you confident on the water. Whether you prioritise fuel efficiency, ease of maintenance or sustainability, we’ll work with you to make the right choice. 

In a single word, yes! Boats are exposed to the elements all year round but ineffective or improper preparation for the harsher months can be detrimental to the longevity of any boat. Winterising a boat can be done by all boat owners and requires only a bit of knowledge and forward planning. For a full run down of the essential steps to settle your boat for the colder months.

While boat ownership will sometimes require the help of professional providers, there are many areas of boat servicing and maintenance that the average boat owner can undertake, saving time and money. These include: 

• Fibreglass repair 

• Bilge pump repair and replacement 

• Electrical system troubleshooting 

• Engine maintenance and servicing 

• Repair of leaking windows and hatches 

• Fuel system maintenance 

• Propeller repair and maintenance  

• Deck cleaning and maintenance 

Our blog has plenty of helpful articles and videos to give you the skills and confidence to do these routine tasks yourself.

Gel coat scratches are inevitable in boat ownership, but the good news is that they don’t have to be a costly expense if you’re willing to give it a go yourself and have a little patience in learning a new skill. To help you gain some new knowledge, we’re put together a step-by-step guide to take you through the process and help you achieve a seamless finish

One of the greatest qualities of fibreglass is its exceptional longevity and low maintenance requirements.  With just a bit of care, your fibreglass boat can remain in excellent condition for years to come. 

• Rinse regularly 

After every use (or when you get the opportunity) rinse your boat down with fresh water to remove salt, dirt and debris.  Saltwater, in particular, can cause dulling or damage over time if left unchecked, so regular rinsing is key to maintaining the surface’s integrity and appearance 

• Protection from UV damage 

Fibreglass is durable, but prolonged exposure to the sun can cause fading or surface deterioration. To protect your boat: 

• Apply a high-quality marine wax once or twice a year to create a protective barrier. 

• Use a boat cover when the vessel is not in use, especially during winter storage, to shield it from UV rays and environmental pollutants. 

• Address Scuffs and Scratches Promptly 

Scuffs and scratches are inevitable, especially with regular use. The good news is that repairing them is often straightforward. Tackle minor blemishes as they appear, using fibreglass repair kits or gelcoat touch-ups to prevent them from worsening. 

Regular upkeep doesn’t just keep your boat looking “ship-shape”, it also helps preserve its resale value. A well-maintained fibreglass boat is far more appealing to potential buyers and can command a higher price when it’s time to sell. 

Yes, all Plymouth Pilots are fitted with a Whale manual bilge pump as standard.  If required, we can also install an automatic electric pump for when you are away from your boat for further piece of mind

No, all water drains into the bilges where it can be pumped out.  Whilst it may seem less convenient than its self-draining counterparts, there are a couple of significant advantages which we felt were more important during the boat’s development. 

• Greater stability 

• Lower Centre of Gravity: Non-self-draining boats typically have their cockpit or deck set lower in the hull, which helps lower the boat’s centre of gravity. This often results in improved stability, particularly in smaller boats. 

• Enhanced Load Carrying: The lower deck design allows for a more stable ride when carrying heavy loads, making these boats ideal for activities like fishing or transporting goods. 

• Larger, Deeper Cockpits 

• Increased Usable Space: Without the raised decks needed for water drainage, non-self-draining boats often have more room in the cockpit or deck area. This design is particularly beneficial for working boats or leisure craft where extra space is a priority. 

• Comfortable Seating: The deeper cockpit provides a more sheltered and secure seating area, especially useful in rough conditions or for families with children. 

Safety on the water is paramount and equipping your boat with essential safety gear is critical to ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience. Below is a list of the key items every boat owner should consider: 

• Lifejackets (PFDs): The most important piece of safety equipment. Ensure every person onboard has a properly fitted lifejacket. Regularly inspect for wear and tear. 

• Anchor and Rope: Choose the right anchor for your boat size and seabed type to prevent drifting in emergencies. 

• Fire Extinguishers: Required for boats with engines or electrical systems. Check them regularly and replace when expired. 

• VHF Marine Radio: Reliable communication for emergencies, especially offshore. Learn how to use channel 16 for distress calls. 

• Flares/Distress Signals: Critical for signalling in emergencies. Store them in waterproof containers and check expiration dates. 

• EPIRB and PLBs: Essential for offshore ventures, helping rescuers pinpoint your location. Ensure they are registered with the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA). 

• First Aid Kit: Stock with essentials like dressings, antiseptic wipes and pain relief. Add seasickness tablets if needed. 

• Navigation Lights: Legally required for night or poor visibility navigation. Keep spare bulbs onboard. 

• Bilge Pump or Manual Bailer: Prevent water ingress from becoming a critical issue. Test pumps regularly. 

• Navigation Equipment: A compass and charts act as vital backups to electronic GPS. Learn how to use them. 

Aside from having these items onboard, it’s essential to know how to use them. Proper preparation and regular maintenance of your safety equipment ensure you’re ready for most situations, helping to protect everyone onboard. Familiarity with your gear is just as important as having it, giving you the confidence to handle emergencies and enjoy a safe, secure boating experience. 

Absolutely. With over 50 years of boatbuilding expertise, we understand that after-sales support is just as crucial as the initial purchase. We take pride in maintaining strong, lasting relationships with our customers long after delivery. 

Whether you prefer us to manage the maintenance directly or need help finding reliable services locally, we’re here to assist. Our ultimate goal is to keep you on the water for as long as possible, offering expert advice and support whenever needed. When you invest in one of our boats, you gain not just a vessel but a dedicated partner in your boating journey. 

Absolutely! One of the greatest advantages of choosing us to build your boat is being part of the design process.  With an almost endless number of possibilities, each Plymouth Pilot is tailored to your specific needs. Whether it’s adding extra handrails, relocating fairleads to suit your mooring arrangements or reducing timber finishes for even lower maintenance, we can accommodate most requests. 

Not sure what you need? With decades of experience both building and using boats, we’re always here to provide expert guidance.  

We can install a wide range of electronics on your boat from VHF radios, AIS receivers and transceivers, autopilot, radar, bow thrusters, chartplotters and fish finders from manufacturers such as Icom, Garmin and Raymarine. 

With buying any boat, you’ll want to look carefully at how you’re going to use the boat, where you’ll be using it, budget, potential activities on board etc (see What are the main things I need to consider before buying a boat?). Buying a used boat brings a few more complexities. You may want to instruct a marine surveyor to give a potential purchase a full going over before you commit but as a starting point, there a several things you can look for before you get to that stage.

Generally speaking, ordering a new boat will tend to follow the same format. There are some critical steps that start with you…have you determined your needs and budget at the outset and do you know what admin tasks and costs will come when you take delivery?  Then you need to narrow down your options to a select few dealers or manufacturers. Once you’ve done your research and you know which boat is going to suit you best, the general order of business is: 

• Select your options and features – this will include model, colour, electronics etc.  

• Place your order – this element normally involves payment of a deposit to secure your build slot and the formalities of contracts and payment schedules. 

• Production of your boat 

• Quality control – sea trials etc 

• Delivery & handover 

Your Plymouth Pilot is hand-built to your specifications in our workshop in Plymouth, UK. We take great care to ensure that your boat is crafted exactly as you envision. The build time depends on the model you choose: your Pilot 16′ will take approximately 5 weeks, your Pilot 18′ around 8 weeks and your Pilot 24′ about 15 weeks. These timelines ensure that every detail meets your expectations, though the exact duration may vary based on your final specifications. We’re committed to delivering a boat that’s perfectly tailored to you and your intended use.

Having the necessary boating lingo is a key component of effective communication when at sea. If you’re new to the boating scene, we’ve collected the main ones you’re likely to need in a handy dictionary to get you started.

Green boats are considered unlucky in maritime superstition for several reasons, often rooted in tradition, culture and ancient beliefs. Some of the main explanations include: 

• Visibility concerns: Historically, green boats might have been harder to spot in rough seas, especially when surrounded by water, algae or foliage near the coast. Poor visibility increases the chances of accidents, making green boats seem “unlucky” in practice. 

• Nature symbolism: Sailors were very in tune with nature and often believed that tempting fate by painting a boat green could be seen as disrespecting the sea or nature itself. Some thought that using a colour so strongly associated with land might displease the sea gods or spirits. 

• Practical issues with paint: In earlier times, green pigments were less durable, prone to fading or peeling under harsh sea conditions. The wear and tear might have been interpreted as a sign of bad fortune or poor craftsmanship. 

Although these superstitions have faded over time, the belief still persists in some maritime communities today.  

Absolutely! Installing an electric motor in a Plymouth Pilot is entirely feasible. When considering electric propulsion for any boat, the two common types of systems are inline electric motors and electric pods. Each option has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, depending on your specific needs and the characteristics of the boat.

As for Electric Pilots, we retrofitted an Epropulsion 3kw pod drive coupled to a single 4kWh battery with amazing results.

Plymouth Pilots are displacement hulls, they move through the water by pushing it aside rather than riding on top of it. Because they have a displacement hull, Plymouth Pilots are highly fuel-efficient at low speeds – perfect for cruising over longer distances. The shape of the hull also results in a smoother ride in rough waters since the boat is able to cut through waves rather than bouncing over the top of them. They have the added capability to carry heavy loads without compromising performance. However, the downside is they won’t get you anywhere fast!! 

Knowing several varieties of knots is an essential skill in boating. The main ones are: 

• Bowline 

• Reef 

• Figure Eight 

• Sheet Bend 

• Clove Hitch 

• Anchor Hitch 

• Rolling Hitch 

• Round Turn and Two Half Hitches 

• Cleat Hitch 

Plymouth Pilots is proudly based in Plymouth, Devon, on the stunning south coast of England. This historic maritime city, referred to as Britain’s Ocean City, provides the perfect backdrop for crafting our renowned traditional boats.  All our boats are manufactured inhouse, by our dedicated team of boatbuilders. 

We have boats far and wide and support our owners in getting their boat home be it in the UK or further afield.

We offer a 7 year warranty on all our moulded parts, including the hull.  The our main engine suppliers, Beta Marine and Yanmar both offer 5 Year self-servicing warranty for leisure users. 

Of course you can.  In fact, we encourage it.  Not just for the initial phases of ordering a boat, but through the entire build! As a team, we are immensely proud of every boat we build and love the opportunity to share our passion for boats with anyone who visits. Seeing your boat come to life is a unique and exciting experience and we believe it adds a personal touch to the journey of owning a Plymouth Pilot. 

Whether it’s discussing design choices, watching the craftsmanship in action or simply getting a feel for the quality and care that goes into every detail, we’re happy to welcome you to our workshop. Please contact us to arrange a visit and let us share the pride we take in building your perfect boat. 

Placing an order for your very own Plymouth Pilot is an exciting prospect and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. 

It all begins with your initial contact. You can start by filling out our contact form on www.plymouthpilots.co.uk, or if you’d prefer, give us a call on (01752) 482588 or email [email protected]. Once we receive your enquiry, a member of our team will reach out for an initial conversation. This call helps us understand your basic requirements and ensures we provide you with the most relevant information. 

Within about a week of sending out our literature, we’ll follow up with another call to confirm you’ve received everything, explain our sales process in detail and answer any questions you may have. At this stage, we’ll also arrange a dedicated consultation with one of our experienced boatbuilders. This personalised discussion helps us work closely with you to create a tailored specification that meets your needs. 

To enhance your experience, we invite you to visit our workshop during this phase. You’ll have the chance to meet our team, see the craftsmanship in action and get a feel for the pride and passion that go into building each Plymouth Pilot.  At this point we can usually arrange a sea trial too. 

Once your specification is finalised, we’ll secure your build slot with a deposit. From this point onwards, we’ll keep you regularly updated on the progress of your build, sharing photos, milestones, and any key updates to ensure you’re fully involved in the process.  You will also have a dedicate build diary. 

By the time your boat is ready for launch, you’ll have been a part of its creation every step of the way, a true testament to the personalised experience we offer at Plymouth Pilots. 

While we don’t offer inhouse financing or direct links to marine finance providers, there are many reputable companies specialising in marine financing that can help make purchasing your dream boat more accessible. 

We do occasionally have second-hand boats available when they come into our inventory. Additionally, we regularly undertake a wide range of refurbishment projects, bringing pre-owned boats back to exceptional standards. Our refurbishment work ensures that any boat we offer has been thoroughly inspected, repaired, and upgraded as needed to meet our high standards. 

If you’re interested in a second-hand or refurbished boat, feel free to contact us to check availability or to discuss any specific requirements. 

Absolutely, we supply are large number of parts, from templates, fibreglass mouldings, deck fitting and engine spare.  If we don’t have what you need in stock, we will always do our utmost to assist you in locating the required parts through our trusted network of longtime suppliers. 

We provide comprehensive support to ensure you enjoy a smooth and confident ownership experience. This includes: 

• Familiarisation and training: Guidance on operating your boat, understanding its features, and handling it in different conditions. 

• Maintenance and servicing: Recommendations for routine maintenance, access to replacement parts and referrals for repairs if needed. 

• Technical support: Assistance with troubleshooting, system upgrades or resolving technical issues. 

• Documentation and paperwork: Help with registration, insurance and providing a detailed owner’s manual. 

• Emergency preparedness: Safety training, instructions for using emergency equipment and key support contact details. 

• Community and networking: Information on owner groups, events and local resources to help you connect with fellow boaters. 

• Ongoing communication: Regular updates on products, services and support from our dedicated team.