Quote help

In the 2nd episode of the 1st series called "The Offical Visit"

When they are at the train after just discovering what the African speech will say. Someone says "in our day a gumboat was all that was needed" (or something like that) and then Hacker says "I suppose thats out of the question"

Have I got it right did he say "gumboat" if so can someone tell me what it means. If I got it wrong and he didnt say "gumboat" can someone tell me what did he exactly say? and what does it mean?

"Dont let it end like this... tell them I said something."