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...

Some pilots have already lost their lives because of this non-compliant construction. We don't want to see such an arrangement again. Here is a latest video from the Middle East.

SeaSafe - Marine pilot falling off a ships ladder with his integrated life jacket coat

A good working relationship with the pilot, effective Master Pilot Information Exchange at the start of the pilotage followed by well performing Bridge Resource Management during the pilotage passage, are important factors in a successful pilotage.

Pilotage is being able to navigate safely into and out of a harbour/anchorage/port knowing where you are at all times, where your hazards are and a safe route in/out. This is particularly useful if you are heading into somewhere new or a challenging/busy area – or both!

Let us start a journey back in time. Back to the black and white films of history. The times have changed, but it is good to know what kind of things have changed and where are the roots of pilotage.