Lauwersoog, 1 september 2026 – Next Generation Shipyards has been awarded the contract to construct a new pilot vessel for the Pacific Pilotage Authority (PPA) in Canada. The 25.5-metre vessel was designed by Camarc Design in close cooperation with Next Generation Shipyards. The vessel will be deployed for pilotage operations along the west coast of Canada. The contract is part of the Pacific Pilotage Authority’s fleet renewal programme. The new pilot vessel is intended to renew the existing fleet and provide the PPA with a suitable vessel for its operational activities in the years ahead. The tender for the new pilot vessel was published in 2025. Following the tender process, the contract was awarded to Next Generation Shipyards.
Designed for pilotage
The new vessel has been developed to meet the specific requirements of transferring pilots to and from seagoing vessels. The pilot vessel is designed to operate in a range of weather and sea conditions.The vessel is 25.5 metres long and has a relatively shallow draft. Propulsion consists of two diesel engines in combination with twin waterjets. The vessel is designed for high speed and a long operating range, both of which are important for daily pilotage operations.
For the Canadian west coast
The Pacific Pilotage Authority provides pilotage services in the coastal waters of British Columbia and on the Fraser River. Pilot vessels are an important part of these operations. With the new vessel, the Authority is investing in the renewal of its operational fleet. The new vessel will operate in the northern waters along Canada’s west coast, where it will support pilotage operations under a range of conditions.
Preparations underway
Engineering and preparations for construction are now underway. The design and technical specifications are being further developed in preparation for construction of the vessel. For Next Generation Shipyards, the contract represents an expansion of its activities in the construction of specialised pilot vessels. The project brings together the expertise of Next Generation Shipyards and Camarc Design to develop a vessel specifically suited to the operational requirements of the Pacific Pilotage Authority.
With the construction of the new pilot vessel, Next Generation Shipyards is contributing to the continued renewal of the Canadian pilotage organisation’s fleet.
