Vittoria Shipyard unveils 60 knot Interceptor

Interceptor 43's four Mercury Verado outboards develop a total 1,200 hp

MAY 19, 2016 — Italy’s Vittoria Shipyard is to showcase its 60 knot Interceptor 43 at an event in La Spezia next week.

The new vessel is based on U.S. Customs and Border Protection specifications for maritime rescue operations, and prevention of illegal immigration, smuggling and piracy.

Designed for military use, when camouflaged the Interceptor 43 can hide between the waves, and brings together Italian expertise in design and boatbuilding and American muscle in the form of four Mercury Verado outboard engines developing a total 1,200 hp..

The prototype, made in vinyl ester resin strengthened with glass fiber, carbon and Kevlar, has an overall length of 14.04 m, overall beam of 2.81 m, height of 1.98 m, and displaces 9.93 tonnes fully laden.

This size allows it carry a crew of six.

Research work done in developing the hull and its special “step” structure means the vessel combines high speeds with excellent seaworthiness.

The shipyard says the choice of outboard propulsion allows simplicity and running economies to be combined with efficiency and high performance both in terms of top speed and acceleration.

The vessel’s SmartCraft Digital Throttle Shift (DTS) control system also allows ultra-smooth gear changes, with instant response from the accelerator.

The Interceptor can reach a top speed of 60 knots and maintain a cruising speed of 40 knots.

According to the shipyard, variations in temperature, humidity and altitude do not cause significant changes in the ship’s performance, ensuring superior torque and acceleration right across the rev range.