Pilotage

UK’s first hybrid pilot boat to begin trials this summer

Baird Maritime
Image: Goodchild Marine Services/PA

A diesel-electric hybrid pilot boat ordered by the Port of London Authority is set to begin a year-long series of trials this summer before it enters operational service.

Developed by Goodchild Marine Services of Norfolk, the £1 million (US$1.26 million) vessel is the first hybrid pilot boat to be built in the UK.

The manufacturer claims the vessel could last up to six hours at a cruising speed of 10 knots before its batteries require recharging.