Welcome to progress report #19.We’ll start with a sure sign that we are in the 21st century. The opening photo shows the start of the NMEA 2000 “backbone” which we are installing in the FPB64s.

This robust interface allows us to monitor engine, electronics, pumps, and a host of other functions on easily programmed interfaces. We’ll have lots more on this as we get closer to launching.

There is a large hi definition TV in the salon (standard on all boats). This shows the mechanism (with a faux screen) in the stored position.

This resides on the starboard side of the salon.

The privacy door between salon and forward cabin is shown here. There is a vertical and horizontal closure, which slides to starboard when open.

The same door, now looking from the forward cabin aft.

Speaking of doors, this is the entry into the great room. There is a conventional lockset for everyday use. The dog handles are for securing the door in heavy weather.

Switching to the second boat, which is quickly coming together. The large roll (white) in the center of the great room is the Armaflex insulation.

The timber blocks glued to the hull side are attachment points for furniture and hull panels. The insulation can be seen below the topside stiffener. It will eventually cover almost the entire interior of living area, providing insulation, condensation protection, and noise suppression.

We’ve been working on efficient and reliable fridge systems for 30+ years. The package developed for the FPB83 is the best yet, and it is being replicated on the FPB 64s. These are the three compressors, for the fridge and two freezers. They have “keel coolers” immersed in an integral fresh water tank. No through hulls or salt water to create maintenance issues. The off white colored tank to the right is a back up drinking water supply, operated with a hand pump at the galley sink.

The other part of the refrigeration equation shown above, stainless liners for the inside of the heavily insulated boxes.

The mast assembly is standing up on FPB64 #1. The spreaders are now attached.

View from the side, with the awning frame in place.

The awning frame is designed to allow a strong, simple, and effective covering of the flying bridge. When venturing into areas where extreme weather is a risk the awning can be easily removed and stowed.

The arched shape is designed to shed water. Platforms for two radars are just above the awning frame. The flat between the two pipes at the top is for a Satcom or SatTV dome. The hoop to which nav lights are fixed is not yet fitted.