Port of Milford Haven (UK) has awarded Next Generation Shipyards (NG Shipyards) of Lauwersoog (NL) the contract to build a 22-metre pilot vessel, following a very intensive international tender process.
The vessel will complement the current fleet at Port of Milford Haven and is intended to strengthen pilotage services at this port, known as the UK’s largest energy port.
Next Generation Shipyards (NG Shipyards) has extensive experience in the construction of advanced pilot boats, crew tender vessels and other specialised craft. The vessel chosen by Milford Haven Port will be designed by Camarc Design (UK), a company specialising in innovative high-speed vessels suitable for sailing in various weather conditions.
Key features of the new pilot vessel are:
self-aligning capability, proven effectiveness in operating safely and efficiently in severe weather conditions, an ergonomically designed wheelhouse and crew facilities that meet the highest safety and operational standards. The vessel will cruise at a speed of more than 25 knots and will be equipped with water jets and engines that meet the strictest environmental requirements.
Mike Ryan, harbour master of the Port of Milford Haven, said,
“Around 20 per cent of the UK’s energy needs are handled by the energy facilities at the Port of Milford Haven. Our ability to guide ships in and out of the port safely, reliably and environmentally friendly is critical, not only for our business, but also for the resilience and security of the UK’s energy supply.”
Steven Bonder, Project Manager at Next Generation Shipyards, adds:
“We are immensely proud of the signed contract for the development and construction of the new pilot vessel for the Port of Milford Haven. Together with Camarc Design, we are confident that we can deliver the best pilot vessel for the Port of Milford Haven. We look forward to the engineering and design phase, and the start of construction of the pilot vessel next year.” The new pilot vessel is expected to be operational by 2025.
