Just Launched: Wilbur 46

Particulars: Every once in awhile a project comes along that incorporates all the benefits that a Maine-built boat can deliver. The Betsy, launched by Wilbur Yachts on May 15, 2010, after a close to three-year-long building process was one of those projects. As the boat's owner, Dr. Klein said, “This project combines the classic lines of a Maine lobsterboat with modern technology judiciously implemented to produce a 'green' boat.” Toward that end, the Betsy's Caterpillar diesel was designed with electronic modules that allow the captain to drive the vessel in the most fuel-efficient manner, effectively burning the same amount of fuel that an engine one-quarter the size would burn. Using the tried-and-true technology of hand-laid-up solid fiberglass hulls, the Betsy rides smoothly and quietly at displacement speeds yet can still deliver a top speed of about 27 knots. In addition, the boat has solar panels and a fuel cell to power LED lights and keep the batteries topped off while spending extended time on the hook. Overall, this collaboration, took more than 3,500 e-mails and counting, not to mention 15 round trips between Maine and Los Angeles. The result? Careful planning plus attention to detail equals one beautiful boat.