Pilotage Services

Our deep sea coastal pilots have a detailed knowledge of the English Channel and the North Sea through their previous experience and extensive training. The knowledge gained, allows our pilots to provide Masters and owners with increased safety. This helps mitigate the risk of accident or collision.

Through this extensive sea pilotage training, as well as keeping up to date with the complex buoyage, navigation, offshore activity and reporting procedures, a deep sea pilot can greatly enhance a bridge team. Our licensed deep sea pilots provide increased assurances around the safe passage of a vessel. Helping boats pass through some of the busiest and most treacherous waterways in the world.

These busy shipping lanes carry a high risk of an incident. This could result in expensive repercussions from both a damage and pollution perspective. Coupled with the ever increasing offshore activity, fishing vessels, numerous ferry crossings. It's essential to obtain the necessary support when transiting these waters. The increased pressure on a master due to shrinking crew sizes and working hour limitations also increases the importance of assistance.

The Dover Straits is experiencing in excess of 1,000 movements per day. Along with the changing weather, it is logical that the IMO recommends Masters/owners utilise pilotage services.

— Passage Planning

Detailed knowledge of the waters and traffic lanes means that our pilots will be able to assist a master with his passage planning as well as take the safest and most direct routes which also results in costs savings in terms of bunkers. Their knowledge of the best drifting/anchoring positions will also contribute to this.

— Fatigue & working hours limitations

The biggest factor when looking at previous vessel incidents and collisions. Following the introduction of strict working hour limitations, a deep sea pilot can reduce the risk of fatigue by taking pressure of a master and crew whilst also allowing them time to complete port formalities while transiting dangerous and high risk waters.

— Increased Safety

Having an experienced deep sea pilot on board can greatly mitigate the risk of an accident whilst also bringing expert knowledge and advice to a bridge team.

— Costs

Reduction in bunker costs through expert passage planning and knowledge, a saving which is often overlooked in the day to day running of a vessel.

— Recommendations

As per IMO Resolution A486 (xii), Master and owners are recommended to utilise the services of a deep sea pilot when transiting the English Channel and the North Sea.