New pilot boats are appearing on the Thames as part of a programme to replace older vessels used for transfer operations guiding big ships on the river.
The fleet replacement plan is being carried out by the Port of London Authority in a joint modernisation programme with the Medway port authority.
A fleet of six vessels is currently being operated for the port authorities by Estuary Services company that carry marine pilots to board 10,000 passenger liners and cargo ships arriving in the Thames every year, guiding them to terminals and jetties. These include cruise ships, containers vessels, tankers and general cargo carriers.
The new fleet of pilot boats being built in Great Yarmouth, with 28 knot top speeds and a-quarter more fuel efficiency than the older vessels, are being launched one by one to give Estuary Services crews time to train and adjust as they replace the older vessels in the fleet. The first two new pilot boats are already operating on the Thames.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here