Pioneer MK3 specification

Designed specifically for the tourist and transport industries, the Pioneer Mk3 hovercraft is amphibious and comfortably seats 25 passengersplus 1-crew. The air-conditioned cabin allows for maximum visibility for all aboard. The Pioneer Mk3 is robust and dynamic in its performance.

Power is economicaly provided by one Deutz diesel engine of 330kW (442hp) to cruise easily at 40 knots with much higher speeds available according to the surface conditions. The hull is manufactured from fibreglass/PVC foam composite sandwich, the windows are glass and the skirt is urethane coated nylon. A Military version is available with increased payload and systems redundancy. Power for the Military version comes from two Steyr diesel engines with a total installed power of 320kW (429hp). All transmission, electrical, hydraulic and air systems are duplicated for maximum redundancy. The increased performance of the Military version comes from the reduced engine weight of the twin Steyr installation c.f. the Deutz installation.

Construction is in accordance with the 2000 HSC Code, BHSR, Australian USL class 1D, Transport Canada TP5579.

Technical specifications

length	12.15 metres
width	5.7 metres
cockpit length	5.7 metres
cockpit width	2.5 metres
cushion height	690mm
max recommend speed	92 km/hr (50 kts) on smooth water 37 km/hr (20 kts) on land
cruising speed	50 to 75 km/hr (27 to 40 kts)
crew	1 operator/pilot
accommodation	25 passengers
payload	with Deutz engine, 25 persons (or 2,500kgs), with Steyr engines, 25 persons (or 2,800kgs)
overload payload	up to 3,000kg (at reduced performance)
engine	one unit Deutz BF6M1015CP, 330kW (442hp) @ 2100rpm, alternatively two units Steyr M16, 160kW (215hp) @ 3600rpm
fuel	diesel, 2 x 100 litres plus 2 x 100 litres ballast tanks (300 litres normal total, 400 litres maximum total with reduced trim comand)
hull construction	Moulded using Epoxy resin, non-woven E-glass fabrics and Divinycell® PVC foam core. Under-hull Urethane landing pads for abrasion protection.
skirt type	Pressurised bag tapered from front to back with larger sections at the front for improved wave clearance. All fingers are separate and detachable.
area of operation	USL Class C / Class D. Partailly smooth waters