For those unfamiliar with the Ironclad, here’s a brief history and a look at what makes her a top-notch charter vessel today.
From Tailchaser to Ironclad: A Transformation Story
The vessel now known as the Ironclad originally sailed as the Tailchaser out of Newport Beach for many years. Around 2016, she was sold to a private owner. At that time, she was powered by a pair of 375-horsepower Caterpillar 3208 engines. While reliable, these “dirty kitties” were known for being slow and smokey, offering a cruising speed of only 12-15 knots.
In 2017, Captain Frank Pitetti acquired the Tailchaser with a vision: to transform her into a premier 6-pack fishing charter operating out of San Diego. The first two years under Captain Pitetti’s ownership saw significant upgrades. He installed all-new electronics, including a state-of-the-art Furuno CH-500 true side-scan sonar, and refreshed the interior with new upholstery in the galley and V-berth. Every piece of fishing equipment was also updated to provide the best experience for his clients.
The Ironclad Reborn: Power, Speed, and Comfort
By the fourth year of operation, it was time for a major overhaul. The old Caterpillar engines were replaced with a pair of Cummins Slimline QSB 6.7 engines, each boasting 420 horsepower. This repower was a game-changer, not only for performance but also for cleanliness. The new QSBs are remarkably clean, smokeless, and exceptionally reliable. This upgrade, along with all-new wiring and a complete paint job in the cockpit and hull, dramatically improved the Ironclad’s capabilities.
Where she once cruised at a leisurely 12-15 knots, the Ironclad now glides through the water at a swift 18-25 knots, depending on conditions. Captain Frank’s dedication, evident in the “blood, sweat, and tears” poured into these extensive upgrades, has truly transformed the Ironclad into the high-performance vessel she is today.
Your San Diego Fishing Adventure Awaits
The Ironclad operates out of Seaforth Marina, located at 1677 Quivira Rd, San Diego, CA (adjacent to Seaforth Landing). We offer a diverse range of fishing charters to suit your needs, including half-day, 3/4-day, full-day, and overnight trips.
Ready to experience the enhanced Ironclad for your next fishing adventure?
