These launches have been designed to have a minimum service life of 15 years and to meet the MCA Code of Practice for Small Workboats and Pilot Boats. The new vessel will be issued with a Pilot Boat Certificate to Category 3, up to 20 miles from safe haven. The structure is designed generally in line with Lloyds Register of Shipping (LRS) Special Service Craft (SSC) Rules.

Milford Haven Port Authority operate in a compulsory pilotage area up to 20 nautical miles from the point of departure. The design brief was to produce a robust and sea-kindly craft fit for the demanding role of pilot transfer in heavy weather under very severe conditions. It is the owners’ expectation that the structure will be subjected to 1,000 vessel impacts per annum and operate in swells up to 5m significant wave height.

The design notes carefully the preferences and requirements of the user in the changing role of pilotage in the area of operation, with the vessel required to carry out pilot transfers at speeds of up to 12 knots and maintain service levels with the anticipated increase in port traffic arising from the LNG developments.

There are minor changes to the design to reflect the lessons learnt on the last vessel. In addition to pilotage duties the new craft will be used for VIP transport and other general purpose roles.

Like the Skomer, the new vessel will be powered by a pair of Caterpillar C18 diesel engines, driving Twin Disc gearboxes and making use of the Twin Disc EC300 control system.  This third vessel represents the conclusion of the replacement programme for the existing fleet.

Kevin Lewis, managing director of Pembroke based Mustang Marine said, 'Mustang Marine is absolutely delighted to have been selected for the construction of this important and very prestigious vessel. It reflects the confidence that the Authority has in our ability to deliver cost effective, state of the art vessels for pilotage operations.'

The Port Authority’s Harbour Master, Mark Andrews added, 'We are delighted to have agreed a further contract with Mustang for the delivery of what will be their third vessel for the Authority. An anticipated 25% of the UK’s gas requirements will be handled on the Haven when both LNG terminals are operational. This vessel will strengthen our existing fleet, becoming integral to the ongoing safety of Pilot transfer.'