Video

The world's first 100% electric pilot boat

published on 15 April 2022 - 516 -

Show comment section |

Found on YouTube. Created by "MGH ENERGY". Originally published on 2022-04-13.

Built in 1980, the Maguelonne pilot boat, historical ship of the pilots of Sète, is getting a new look and swapping its thermal engine for a 100% electric propulsion. It is within the framework of the Green Pilot project, led by the MGH company, supported by its partners, the Occitanie Region and the Port of Sète-Frontignan, and with the participation of the pilot stations of Sète and Marseille-Fos, that the e-Maguelonne is born.

The maritime pilots lead the ships to the entrance of the ports. Night and day, they join the cargo ships that arrive several kilometers off the coast of the port, by means of fast boats called pilotines. While the ship is still underway, the pilot boat docks alongside the ship so that the pilot can climb aboard via a rope ladder to reach the ship's command post and drive it to its berth.

Launched in Sète in 2021 after sea trials in the harbor of Marseille, the e-Maguelonne pilot boat is now operational among the pilot boats of the commercial port of Sète-Frontignan and is the first 100% electric pilot boat in the world.

Pilot Boats

What's your opinion on this?

Video Crowley Completes First U.S. Design for Fully Electric Tug with Autonomous Technology

published on 21 April 2021

Crowley Engineering Services has completed a design of the first fully electric U.S. tugboat with autonomous technology -- providing operators a sustainable and high-performing solution for ship assist and harbor services in any port. The Crowley design, powered by the expertise of recently integrated subsidiary Jensen Maritime, leverages a large battery system and power saving technology to operate in a fully electric mode while producing zero air emissions or greenhouse gases. The 82-foot...

Video ENTRE TERRE ET MER - Le pilotage maritime

published on 7 June 2021

La Nouvelle-Calédonie, notamment la Grande Terre, a la particularité d'être complètement entourée par un lagon, seules quelques passes rendent son accès possible aux navires venant de l'étranger. La navigation maritime y est délicate car une bonne connaissance de la topologie des fonds sous-marins est indispensable. Tous les bateaux de commerces de plus de 60 m voulant accoster en Nouvelle-Calédonie doivent impérativement faire appel aux services des pilotes maritimes de Nouvelle-Calédonie,...

Video Devenir pilote | Become a pilot (Pilotes du Saint-Laurent Central)

published on 21 May 2022

This video deals with the training of apprentice pilots and the transmission of knowledge and know-how. The language in the video is French.

Article A Day in the life of a Mentor Pilot

by North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation - published on 1 November 2021

Luke Sorensen began his career as a Marine Pilot in 2011. Now the Manager of Pilotage Services, North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP), he mentors Pilots moving through the NQBP Training Framework to become competent and confident in bringing ships into berth at our ports. Luke explains the process of mentoring.

Article Rodman 41, the last unit built of this model of pilot boat for the Cádiz Pilots Corporation

published on 30 November 2022

Rodman is delivering the latest unit of this model of Rodman 41 pilot boat, specially designed and built for the Cadiz Pilots Corporation and fitted to meet all the Owner's requirements.

Video Pilot Boat Approaching Norwegian Star in Italy

published on 19 September 2023

November 2019

Video A Day Aboard Pilot Boat Collingwood | Guiding Ships in the Port of Tyne

published on 10 March 2025

Join us for a behind-the-scenes look at the vital work of the Port of Tyne pilot boat crew aboard Collingwood! From sunrise to sunset, these skilled mariners navigate the River Tyne and the North Sea, ensuring the safe passage of massive cargo ships, tankers, and ferries.
Watch as the crew battles the elements, transfers pilots onto moving vessels, and keeps the busy shipping lane running smoothly. This is a rare glimpse into the teamwork, precision, and dedication required to guide ships...