Pilot Boarding Bulk Carrier SAMMY in Saudi Arabia.

Pilot Organisation: Sabine Pilots - USA

In my most recent article, I talked about how ports are currently faced with disruptive circumstances that severely impact the day-to-day port operations. The COVID-19 situation and blockage of the Suez Canal lead to increased operational uncertainty and a need for ports to endure the situation rather than planning the future.

Case Study: An investigation into whether Port of Melbourne and major port user, ExxonMobil, could bring deeper drafted vessels into the channel.

The 366 m long ultra large container ship ONE EAGLE entered Europoort at deep draft , backing into the Amazonehaven. She finally berthed to ECT DDE terminal, before partially discharging her cargo.

Issues like the Covid 19 crisis and the moves towards increased autonomy appear to be driving a renewed interest in Shore Based Pilotage (SBP), nowadays often called Remote Pilotage.

Kota Laris 262m containership under pilotage, swinging on departure, Fremantle Harbour.