rugged bridge erection boat d27 (beb) pushboat with twin diesel powerwhat makes this beb pushboat special?this beb pushboat from 1960 is a characterful workboat with a rugged appearance, a sturdy aluminium hull and two diesel engines. it was originally built by the us army and designed for work requiring power, manoeuvrability and durability. the boat was used to position pontoons, giving it a practical and robust foundation.with a length of 8.30 metres, a beam of 2.30 metres and a draft of approximately 90 centimetres, it is at home on inland waterways, rivers, lakes and in harbours. its compact dimensions also make it well suited to canals and narrower waterways. the air draft is approximately 1.20 metres, allowing it to operate in many places where larger workboats would have more difficulty.the current owner has had this beb since 2013. during that time, it has attracted plenty of attention, partly thanks to its distinctive appearance and the characteristic deep sound of its engines. anyone looking for a classic aluminium pushboat with a strong personality will find an interesting vessel in this boat, offered at auction by boatauction.how does this twin-engine pushboat perform?the beb is equipped with two 1960 detroit diesel inboard engines. both engines produce 100 hp, have three cylinders and electric starting. the engines are operational and, according to the information provided, always start. the fuel and oil filters were replaced recently. together, the engines provide a unique boating experience, particularly when manoeuvring in tight spaces or positioning alongside a quay.the twin propulsion system provides direct and powerful control. By using both engines independently, the skipper can turn and move the boat with precision. this makes it appealing not only for recreational boating, but also to enthusiasts of classic workboats and practical vessels with an individual character.its cruising speed is around 12 kilometres per hour. the maximum speed is approximately 20 kilometres per hour, depending on the load, waterway and conditions. at higher speeds, its v-shaped hull produces noticeable water displacement. the owner describes travelling at full power as impressive, with a substantial bow wave and a powerful engine sound.is this boat suitable for recreational use?yes, this beb is suitable for day trips, leisure boating and weekends on the water. it offers a particularly distinctive experience for someone looking for more than an ordinary recreational boat. its spacious, open character and workboat appearance make it suitable for relaxed cruises, harbour visits and adventurous overnight stays on board or in the surrounding area.the current owner recalls nights away with family and friends, harbour days in woerden and trips with his young son. memories like these suit the character of this boat perfectly. it invites you to cruise at a relaxed pace, moor along the way and enjoy the attention of passers-by. the beb is not an inconspicuous vessel, but a boat with history, sound and presence.the controls are located outside and operated with a steering wheel. the boat has a twin-rudder system, which complements its twin-engine configuration and assists with manoeuvring. there is no bow thruster, but thanks to the two engines, the boat can still be controlled accurately.what equipment is included with the purchase?the boat has four batteries on board with a total capacity of 60 ah. the electrical system operates at 12 and 24 volts and is supported by an alternator. The controls include an oil pressure gauge, temperature gauge and tachometer. the available electronics and navigation equipment are described as sound and appropriate to the practical character of the beb.for outdoor use, it is equipped with a cockpit cover, a crane or hoist, fenders and lines. a lifebuoy, a 9-litre foam fire extinguisher and an electric bilge pump are also included. there is no toilet on board. the boat is not supplied with a trailer. weighing approximately 5,000 kilograms, suitable transport or an appropriate berth and facilities are important considerations to make in advance.what is the technical condition of the beb?the aluminium hull is heavily built and forms an important part of its character. its use by the us army explains the sturdy construction and practical finish. the boat was last taken out of the water for maintenance in 2025. antifouling was applied in 2024. according to the information provided, no known defects have been reported and the engines and systems are functioning.the owner states that everything works, although some rattling may be audible while underway. this is in keeping with its age, construction and origins as a workboat. the above- and below-water exhausts enhance the characteristic engine sound. the combination of an aluminium v-shaped hull, twin diesel power and a functional deck layout makes it appealing to an enthusiast who values authenticity and a distinctive boating experience.who might be interested in this classic pushboat?this beb pushboat will appeal to a buyer looking for a rugged boat with history. it is of interest to enthusiasts of former workboats, classic aluminium boats and vessels with twin engines. it may also be an attractive choice for anyone who enjoys standing out in the harbour or at boating events.its strength lies not only in its size, but above all in the combination of its features. it has the appearance of a workboat, the manoeuvrability of a compact pushboat and the experience of two diesel engines. whoever buys it will acquire a distinctive classic boat that invites them to go boating, carry out maintenance or modifications as desired, and create new memories on the water.