Video A Pilot Boat alongside a Cruise Ship (Norway)
published on 4 August 2025
Video PLA River Thames Pilot Cutter Dji Inspire 2
published on 28 January 2021
Pilot cutters are used to take pilots between the three pilot stations (at Gravesend, Harwich and Ramsgate) and ships entering or leaving the Port of London.
Three dedicated pilot cutters Patrol, Guide and our hybrid Leader are based at Gravesend. The six cutters used at Ramsgate are operated by a Estuary Services Limited, which is jointly owned by the PLA and Medway Ports Ltd.
Article Awards 2021 - Best Large Pilot Boat by Hart Marine: "Mantaray"
published on 24 May 2022
Video North Sea pilot boarding
published on 27 August 2024
Video VTS in New South Wales: Air Traffic Control of the Sea
published on 30 June 2021
Every airport needs its air traffic control but what about the ships in our seaports? Here’s how Port Authority’s VTS teams keep watch 24/7 to keep shipping safe in New South Wales, Australia. ••• Port Authority of New South Wales manages the navigation, security and operational safety needs of commercial shipping in Sydney Harbour, Port Botany, Newcastle Harbour, Port Kembla, Eden and Yamba. With over 6,000 visits from trade and cruise vessels each year, the ports of New South Wales...