To The Heads with the Port Phillip Sea Pilots - Nepean

Spotted some Pilot Boats in the Port of Auckland, New Zealand and Melbourne & Fremantle Australia (Port codes: Auckland:NZ AKL ; Melbourne:AU MEL ; Fremantle:AU FRE).

KITTIWAKE ( MMSI 232008570) is a Pilot and currently sailing under the flag of United Kingdom (UK) Here she is speeding down the River this morning.

Metalcraft has recently built a Pilot Boat for Port Everglades Pilot's Association to a design by legendary naval architect Bill Preston. See her in motion and admire her sleek, purposeful lines - and hear what makes her design unusual and efficient.

The Bridgemans Services Group has taken delivery of a new search and rescue (SAR) boat that can also be used for pilot transfer, firefighting, and pollution response duties.

Aberdeen Pilot Boat “Sea Shepherd” following a vessel into port. Wind speed of 40kts gusting 50kts

"Pilot Transfer"
A scene shot last night for the New Documentary
"Northern Venture"
The Pilot boats are owned by a Port Dover Company and there are a few captains on this vessel from Port Dover.

Required tug power and number of tugs needed in variable conditions of wind, current and waves isin most cases an assessment made by pilots based on their professional experience. However, assessments will raise questions by lawyers if something goes wrong. They will use tools to calculate what really is needed with respect to tug power and number of tugs. They have furthermore the advantage of time.