ABP launches new pilot vessel on the Humber
The state of the art boat will help move crews between ships on the estuary
ABP has launched the first of five new boats it will be using to move people between ships on the Humber.
The ÂŁ1m pilot launch vessel, named the OUSE, is one of two that will be based in the Humber Estuary.
Three vessels will be heading to ABP Southampton in 2022 and one to ABP South Wales in 2023, as part of a ÂŁ9m investment.
The new ship the boasts improved fuel efficiency, helping to reduce emissions, as well as state of the art navigation technology.
Simon Bird, ABP Humber Regional Director, said:
“It is an exciting time for ABP to receive the first of its new pilot launches. The pilotage service ABP provides on the Humber is key to keeping Britain trading, and ongoing investment in new technology and equipment ensures the service can continue to be delivered to the highest standard, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.”
“All the new vessels arriving to the Humber will be named after some of the estuary’s main tributaries. The estuary itself is key to everything ABP achieves on the Humber, so it seemed appropriate to recognise the tributaries that keep the Humber flowing.”
All vessels over 60m in length have to be guided through the estuary by a pilot boat.
Crews needing to get to and from larger ships in the estuary will also use the pilot vessel.
ABP Humber Deckhand, Hollie Lewis said:
“The crew are looking forward to working on the new pilot launch vessels as they arrive in the Humber. Not only is the OUSE quieter and more comfortable, it greatly benefits from modernised safety features. We are excited to see how the OUSE stands up to the Humber’s seasonal challenges, but we are in no doubt she will deliver everything we need her to when called upon.”