M/V San Jacinto: Born on the Bayou, Bred for the Gulf

Measuring 80 feet in length overall and 21 feet wide, the San Jacinto is built with a new-generation inverted deep-V bottom hull that exceeds the rigorous operational demands of one of the busiest pilotage services in the United States. Powered by three MAN D2862 LE 438 Tier 4 engines supplied by Performance Diesel, each rated at 1,200 horsepower, and paired with Twin Disc MGX 5204 SC gears and Hamilton HTX47 Jets, this vessel achieves an impressive top speed of 37.5 knots and cruises efficiently at 32.5 knots running 1,950 RPM at 80% load. Fuel consumption is optimized at 43 gallons per hour per engine, with a total fuel capacity of 2,200 gallons, three 145-gallon stainless steel DEF tanks, and a 100-gallon freshwater tank.

Advanced Marine Technology

Designed for real-world demands, the San Jacinto includes triple jet propulsion and a full fuel polishing system by Gulf Coast Filters. The jet system is complemented by DLS Cardan Shafts — two composite and one steel — supplied by Driveline Service of Portland.

This boat is outfitted with Hamilton Jet's advanced AVX controls and water-cooled exhaust systems on the main engines with SCR mounted in the overhead, designed by Soundown of Massachusetts. It is also equipped with a fixed CO₂ system installed in the engine room, including two 100-lb CO₂ bottles with automatic engine shutdown and vent closure, along with a manual pull located in machinery space. Dual Northern Lights M944T3FG 38 kW three-phase generators power the onboard systems, supporting advanced navigation and communication.

Pilot Boat Safety and Stability Features

With safety as a priority, the stability of both overhead and forward bow boarding allows for safe transport of maritime pilots to and from ships that they are piloting, as well as a rescue Sealift located on the stern of the boat. The Seakeeper 40 stabilization system further enhances onboard comfort, even in rough conditions.

Premium Interior and Comfort Systems

Inside, the San Jacinto offers a spacious and modern environment with sleeping accommodations for four, a galley kitchen, and an A-Head sanitation system. Seating includes shock-mitigating NorSap reclining seats, supplied by IMTRA, to ensure comfort for pilots and crew on long transits.

An HVAC system supplied by Advanced A/C & Electric, LLC in Abbeville, LA consists of two four-ton Dometic chillers (variable speed) and titanium condenser coils with five air-handling units. Fritted laminated glass with integrated defrosters installed on the forward three windshields, and the forward two side windows by B&G Glass of New Iberia, LA, ensures visibility in all weather conditions.

Craftsmanship and Design Details

Attention to detail is evident throughout this custom aluminum boat. Custom SeaDeck flooring supplied by Castaway Customs Texas, LLC in a Storm Gray over Blue Teak pattern was installed on the walk-around deck and boarding area. This not only adds traction underfoot, but provides a clean aesthetic finish. All logos, name, and home port were designed and installed on reflective material by Lipari Sporting of New Iberia, LA.

Louisiana Marine Shipbuilding Heritage

The San Jacinto was constructed in Loreauville, Louisiana, a legacy shipbuilding hub nestled along the Bayou Teche. Founded by Roy Breaux Sr. in 1946, Breaux's Bay Craft continues to lead with tradition, performance, and a reputation for delivering rugged, reliable vessels around the globe. The San Jacinto represents over 75 years of boatbuilding heritage.

As the first of the Cajun Twins for the Houston Pilots, the San Jacinto showcases a new chapter in marine pilotage delivered with pride to Galveston, Texas, entering full operational service in the Houston Channel in May 2025. The San Jacinto is just the beginning. Stay tuned for the delivery of its sister vessel M/V Juan Seguin, the second of the Cajun Twins, joining this advanced new fleet series for the Houston Pilots.