New pilot boat for Svitzer

The build represents Safehaven’s 47th pilot vessel delivered worldwide. Powered by a pair of Volvo D13 500hp engines, ZF gearboxes and conventional shaft drive, she has an operational speed of 25kts. Accommodation comprises a crew / pilot capacity for seven, all on KAB suspension seating in her comfortably 27,000btu air-conditioned main cabin, with additional seating for five provided in the spacious forward cabin. Safehaven’s MOB recovery system is fitted on the transom allowing a casualty to be easily recovered in a MOB situation. Svitzer Oued Martil is self-righting, able to recover after capsize by a large breaking sea and capable of ‘all weather’ operations.

A full suite of Raymarine electronics are installed at her central helm position which provides excellent all round visibility and control of the craft when undertaking alongside ship pilot transfers. Fitted with Safehaven’s sacrificial shoulder fender system, protecting the main boarding area and cushioning the inevitable hard impact that can occur in poor conditions, the larger fender also facilitating a gap for the ships boarding ladder to lie when alongside without getting trapped.

The design incorporates Safehaven’s own sliding, adjustable reach pilot boarding ladder platform. The platform raises the pilot approximately 1.2m above deck. It is accessed from the opposing side to boarding, with the pilot able to cross quickly and safely across the foredeck. The distance from the ships side for the boarding platform itself is adjustable in 3 stages, and can be set to suit the sea state and according likely roll of the vessel.

Completion of commissioning and sea trials took place in march 2021 after what was another challenging, but successful Covid build without any visits by the client due to travel restrictions. Even the handover took place remotely by video conference aboard, which is a fine testimony to the yard being trusted in its abilities to deliver high quality pilot vessels without extensive client supervision.

By Jake Frith