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Name: HSL 102

Certificate number: 525

Status:

Core Collection

Function:

Service Vessel

Sub Functional Area:

Type:

High Speed Launch

Location:

Lymington, Hampshire, England

Current use:

Up for Sale

  • Length Overall:

    21.80 metres (71.50 feet)

  • Displacement Tonnage:

    46.60

  • Draught:

    1.75 metres (5.75 feet)

  • Beam:

    6.25 metres (20.50 feet)
HSL 102 - HLS 102 starboard side

Web address

Builder

History

HSL 102 is the only surviving 100 class high speed launch, one of the very first fast offshore rescue boats in service with the Royal Air Force. She was one of the most technologically advanced production craft of the day, the brainchild of Hubert Scott-Paine. From his powerboat racing days, he developed the concept of fast planing 'hard chine' powerboats. He realised that boats which travelled over the surface of the water could travel more quickly and more efficiently than those which travelled through. By 1937, his factory, the British Powerboat Co of Hythe, had grown to become the largest and most advanced boatbuilding establishment in the world. They were world leaders and the designs that they produced have become the blueprint of all modern planing craft. HSL 102 was built by the British Powerboat Co in 1936 as the third of 22 commissioned. She played her part in the mass evacuation of the allies from Dunkirk in May 1940. She was stationed at RAF Calshot during the Battle of Britain. She was then at Donibristle on the Firth of Forth and Blyth in Northumberland.

These brief histories are compiled from details supplied by vessel owners and enthusiasts and from various reference works. National Historic Ships would be grateful for any corrections of facts or additional information for inclusion. Please contact ron.ellis@nationalhistoricships.org.uk

Subsequent developments

None notified, please let us know if you have any additional information.

Previous names

Bibliography