BMT Supports Port of Milford Haven with New ‘Heavy Weather’ Pilot Vessel

BMT is delighted to announce its recent contract award to provide technical support services for the construction of a world class 22m ‘heavy weather’ pilot vessel for the Port of Milford Haven (PoMH), the UK’s leading energy port and one of the biggest LNG terminals in the world.

In a significant move to enhance the resilience of their pilotage operational capabilities, PoMH has embarked on the procurement of a state-of-the-art heavy weather pilot vessel, aligning with their core principles of Safety, Excellence, Collaboration and Sustainability. The aim is not just to acquire new vessels but to ensure a holistic uplift in service reliability and capability, involving all stakeholders.

Over the past 30 months, BMT has collaborated closely with PoMH, delving into the pilot vessel, workboat, and marine renewable energy markets to develop comprehensive operational requirements. This inclusive process has culminated in the selection of a robust procurement option for a 22m aluminium waterjet propeller heavy weather pilot vessel. The vessel is designed to be durable and state-of-the-art, promising safe and reliable operational capabilities for the PoMH crews and pilots for the next two decades.

With the contract awarded to Next Generation Shipyards for the construction of this vessel, PoMH has also designated BMT as their trusted technical support consultant. BMT will provide independent governance and support throughout the vessel design, build, training, and trial phases. Leveraging their extensive experience in vessel design, build survey, training, and trials, BMT ensures the highest standards of safety and operational excellence in the heavy-weather vessel industry.

Steven Lee, Lead Naval Architect at BMT, expressed his enthusiasm for this challenging project:

"BMT is excited to continue providing technical support to the PoMH on this new heavy weather pilot vessel procurement. The expectations are high, to provide a truly excellent, best in class product, to maximise operational safety and capability for the crews and pilots undertaking complex operations in challenging conditions. Our technical services will complement the efforts and expertise of all parties to realise a new standard in pilot vessel design and manufacture”.

Gareth Phillips, Project Manager at the Port of Milford Haven added:

“We are very pleased to be collaborating with BMT on our investment in the expansion of our world class pilotage service with a new pilot transfer vessel. As the UK’s leading energy port with around twenty percent of the UK’s energy needs being handled or processed by the energy facilities within the Port of Milford Haven, it's crucial that we offer a world class service. We look forward to seeing this project develop over the next two years.”

This project represents a pivotal achievement for both BMT and the Port of Milford Haven, underscoring their dedication to excellence and innovation within the demanding and growing ‘heavy weather’ pilot vessel market, as well as in the broader realm of maritime operations. The partnership between these industry leaders promises a bright future for heavy-weather pilot vessel and the safety of those who rely on them.