Pilot boat Lorient harbor - Storm Ulla 2014

The three main french pilotage stations in the Channel - North Sea have changed their recruitment conditions for taking a pilotage examination.

The technology group Wärtsilä will supply a complete navigational simulator upgrade for the Le Havre pilot station in France. The intention is to provide the pilot station with a totally new simulator specifically adapted to the requirements of the pilots’ operations. The order with Wärtsilä was placed in February 2020.The new unique visualisation system to be supplied is based on 14 DP projectors, comprising seven main circular and seven ground projection systems. It features a panoramic 350-degree screen.

A new generation Pilot Boat ! - One of the first IPS propelled workboat - A service speed of 30 knots - A lightweight and solid construction in aluminium - Fast crew operations and low running costs The specifications of this boat have been carefully studied to optimise performance and reliability, while minimising running costs, especially fuel consumption. Both light and powerful, this new 12-metre craft is capable of rapid turnarounds at a service speed of 30 knots. More information on...

Boat to boat Pilot transfer, to the Pilot Vessel Golden Gate, under the Golden Gate Bridge.

A maritime pilot, marine pilot, harbor pilot, bar pilot, or simply pilot, is a sailor who maneuvers ships through dangerous or congested waters, such as harbors or river mouths. They are navigational experts possessing knowledge of the particular waterway such as its depth, currents, and hazards.

Video showing marine pilot navigating a cargo ship from Plan du Port

The Port Phillip Sea pilots launch Torquay out and back again, seen at Point Lonsdale, Vic, Aust.
Ship spotting at Point Lonsdale and other water activities by Wally on Water.

If you fancy seeing what it’s like aboard during some rough weather sea trials, here’s a pretty cool little video of our Interceptor 48 pilot built for the Port of Sines. Some really great Arial drone footage and interesting POV (Point of view) with narration from aboard her in 5-6m seas and in 50kt winds 25 miles offshore.
How difficult is to land a drone back down on the boat in 5-6m swells and 45-50kt wind gusts? Pretty damn difficult as it turns out! Sometimes we fail as you’ll see at...