Two new pilot vessels have been launched by Fremantle Ports.
The pilot vessels were designed by Southerly Designs of Port Denison and built under a AUD$7.6m contract by local shipwright Dongara Marine of Western Australia.
The first of the 19.2m long pair is the “Kwilena,” which is word for “dolphin” in the Noongar language; the second vessel is called “Parker,” in honour of former Fremantle Ports CEO, Michael Parker, who unexpectedly passed away in April this year.
Award of the contract was based on the vessels being able to carry out core functions including 250 to 300 pilot transfers a month; having an operating speed of 25 knots; being able to carry out security patrols of port waters every day, twice a day; operating an estimated 2,500 hours per year; being able to safely carryou out pilot transfers in an average wind speed of 40 knots (Beaufort 8 scale 8), with a sea and swell height of up to four metres.
Additonally, the boats have a water ballast tank to enable stability and sea-keeping during extreme weather; an enhanced pilot transfer zone including a revised pilot rail arrangement and absorbent decking; inclusion of an FLIR colour thermal imaging camera for search and rescue; a mast-mounted camera for monitoring pilots as they ascend / descend ladders.
Builder Dongara Marine also adds that the vessels have a light version of the man overboard recovery platform and sterring remote controls that can be used to make course, heading, rudder, angle or autopilot-mode changes from anywhere onboard.
Commenting at the time that the contracts were awarded in March 2023, WA Minister for Transport, the Hon Rita Saffioti said: “This is a significant and high-profile contract for Dongara Marine and the firm deserves congratulations for being awarded this work. Fremantle Ports choosing a local manufacturer for its new pilot boats reflects well on the high quality of Western Australian marine designers and manufacturers. Western Australia’s coastline is challenging, and the port therefore requires suitable craft for the job. This contract will support jobs locally in Geraldton and showcase their work every day at the Port of Fremantle in the years ahead. Without fast, efficient, reliable and safe pilot vessels, our ports can’t operate. These new assets will assist Fremantle Ports in providing the safest and most efficient service to ship owners, operators and the crew and pilots who board them every day and night of the year.”
