The Port of Hamburg has awarded a contract to Baltic Workboats in Estonia for a new environmentally-friendly 18m pilot transfer vessel, with an option for a second.
The new Hamburg Pilot 1 is valued at about €3m, and the order was placed following a competitive tender process. The selection of the vessel design prioritised maximum operational capability for pilot transfer services and high manoeuvrability within the port area, and is based on a similar standard vessel type to newbuildings commissioned in 2023 for the Hamburg waterway police. Upon completion, Hamburg Pilot 1 will replace Lotse 3, with delivery of the new vessel scheduled for 2025.
Karsten Schönewald, Flotte Hamburg MD, said: “The vessel’s innovative bow shape allows for wave piercing, so that the hull is lifted less by swell. This significantly enhances the comfort of the crew and pilots onboard, while also reducing wave generation by the pilot transfer vessel itself.”
Environmental protection remains a top priority for all of Flotte Hamburg’s newbuildings: the new pilot transfer vessel will be capable of burning synthetic fuel made through the GTL (gas to liquid) process, where methane-rich gases are converted to diesel-type fuel oil and will feature the latest exhaust gas treatment technology. The vessel’s technology and design are aimed at minimising fuel consumption. In alignment with the fleet’s new zero-emission strategy, the vessel will eventually transition to running on climate-neutral fuels without necessitating any technical modifications. The pilot boat will be powered by two engines of 405kW, giving a 20 knot speed capability.
Henrik Lüders, chief pilot of the Hamburg Harbour Pilots’ Association, said: “As a brotherhood of pilots, we are closely involved in the planning of this boat and are confident that the new vessel will enhance our transfer operations in Hamburg, making them safer, more efficient, environmentally friendly, and reliable.”
Image: ‘Hamburg Pilot 1’ (source: Port of Hamburg)
