Behavior and Handling of Ships

Based on MAIB Safety Digest 1/2025, Case 12, published April 2025 by the UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB).

M/V PILOT 68 (CHEOY LEE shipyards 17m Self-righting Pilot Boat)

Breaux’s Bay Craft, Loreauville, La., delivered the new 90’x23’x12’4″ aluminum pilot boat Spindletop to the Sabine Pilots on March 6. The Sabine Pilots, Port Arthur, Texas, serve the Texas ports of Orange, Port Arthur and Beaumont. “This is the biggest pilot boat built in the U.S.,” said Roy Breaux, the shipyard’s owner. “There are bigger ones in other parts of the world, but this is the largest in the U.S.”

Bulk Carrier "Jasmine A" leaving Gladstone lock stern-first with 3 tugs

The use of historical navigation data by ports is essential for safety investigations globally. In the digital age, a wealth of pilotage data is available, aiding operations and training but potentially causing stress if misused.

In this Episode 1, we are joined by Marcel Van Der Horst, a maritime pilot with over 19 years of experience. Marcel will provide an in-depth overview of why maritime pilots are crucial and share essential pilotage techniques used in harbor operations. This episode is a true masterclass, complete with visual explanations. We’ll cover crucial topics such as: 1️⃣ Why you need a maritime pilot 2️⃣ Understanding different types of maneuvers in the harbor 3️⃣ How a ship is berthed using an anchor...

Oct. 13, 2022
Harbor pilot departing the NCL Prima in rough seas.

Here's the full video of recent sea trials with our two pilot boats including storm Ciara, three boats together and some boarding runs. Its quite an interesting little video with some great footage.