Source: Ship Report Podcasts
Today a look at a special vessel that is commonly seen on the Astoria waterfront: the pilot boat that takes pilots to and from passing ships. These boats are specially designed for demanding work that other boats avoid at all costs – coming in contact with the hull of a moving ship, and transporting pilots safely as they do a dangerous job.Article Bermuda pilots order new launch from Gladding-Hearn
published on 18 January 2022
Bermuda’s Department of Marine and Port Services has returned to Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding, Duclos Corp., for a new Chesapeake-class pilot boat. The launch will be built to Lloyd’s Register class, with delivery scheduled for early 2023. The Somerset, Mass., shipyard built a 61-foot pilot/rescue vessel for the port service in 2011.
Video Smooth Sailing: Pros and Cons of a SWATH Vessel
published on 7 August 2020
When you think about SWATH ships, remember seakeeping. Imagine gliding gently over waves. That serenity is what SWATH ships deliver. It comes at the price of several new design challenges. But for the right mission, a SWATH is worth it. Maybe the tradeoffs are right for you? Learn about the strengths and weaknesses of a SWATH. REFERENCES [1] Mecaflux, "Midship, Frontal Surface Area and Flotation," Mecaflux, [Online]. Available: https://www.mecaflux.com/en/Maitre_couple.htm. [Accessed...
Video M Klassen Pilot boat MILO (Netherlands)
published on 26 November 2025
Article Safehaven Marine launch new Interceptor 48 ‘Belgrano’ for the River Plate pilots in Montevideo, Uruguay.
published on 23 December 2020
Safehaven Marine have launched another new Pilot boat, there 20th Interceptor 48 and 46th pilot vessel overall for the River Plate pilots in Montevideo, Uruguay. ‘Belgrano’ named after the famous Argentine general, will operate on the River Plate estuary, also famous for being the place of the first naval battle during the second world war, where the German battle cruiser, the Admiral Graf Spee was scuttled.
Video Rodman 41 Pilotage and Harbour Vessel
published on 6 July 2022
Video The Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway Shipping System
published on 16 October 2022
The Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway System is a 2,340 mile “marine highway” that extends from the Atlantic Ocean to the Great Lakes. This integrated navigation system serves mariners, farmers, factory workers, and commercial interests from the western prairies to the eastern seaboard. Today, the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway System serves as a Key Supply Chain for the world’s 3rd largest economy. Visit greatlakesseaway.org/our-system/ to learn more!
Article Study on European maritime pilots: Working unusual hours and its relationship to job satisfaction
published on 1 October 2025
Article London Pilots issue Quick Reference Guide for PTA’s
by Port of London Authority - published on 9 September 2024
Article AIMPA Journal- April 2021 issue X
by AIMPA - All India Marine Pilots' Association - published on 15 April 2021
Article Finnpilot In 2021: Reliable Pilotage Service Amid The Covid-19 Crisis
published on 18 March 2022
Finnpilot released its annual report for 2021. The impact on the amount of Finland’s international imports and exports significantly affected vessel traffic and the number of pilotage assignments. The number of pilotage assignments in coastal waters decreased by 1.9% from the previous year. In the Saimaa region, the number increased by 5.3% from the previous year.