Luke Pollard tests out the new pilot boat

Tuco Marine Group has added the new 9,3-meter P-top design to the ProZero series.. The low-weight, semi-open design results in a faster workboat that has a larger operational range and extended working time on sea. The P-top features a protective P-top console solution and flexible seating arrangements which can accommodate up to 12 passengers or a full deck cargo.

The Bridgemans Services Group has taken delivery of a new search and rescue (SAR) boat that can also be used for pilot transfer, firefighting, and pollution response duties.

pilot boat is a type of boat used to transport maritime pilots between land and the inbound or outbound ships that they are piloting. Pilot boats were once sailing boats that had to be fast because the first pilot to reach the incoming ship 

These are various views of the pilot vessels coming and going from the pilot dock in Vlissingen prior to 2020.

Look at Life - Signposts of the Sea (1963)
Narrated by Tim Turner

Great pictures from Estonia

This expert article is based on a presentation given by Capt. Pilot Sven Stemmler at the MCN's (Maritimes Cluster Norddeutschland e. V. ) event ‘On the Future of the Pilot Profession’ at Fraunhofer CML in Hamburg on 9 September 2025.

A wonderful poem by Gaylen K. Bunker found on YouTube. As read by the author from bis book "Poems".

KIEL CANAL Ship Collided Collision incident general cargo BBC PARANA vs Motor Tanker ORASUND
Tanker went out of control after engine failure and collided with general cargo ship in Kiel Canal near Kiel locks, at around 0120 Local Time Jul 27, The ships were transiting Canal in opposite directions, both reportedly, sustained damages and were detained. Tanker was berthed near collision site, general cargo ship according to track, exited Canal and was berthed in port outside locks, Ships...