AWARDS 2024 | Best Large Pilot Boat – Murshid – Safehaven Marine

Safehaven Marine has become one of the world’s best known and most respected designers and builders of patrol, pilot and rescue craft. Its substantial, self-righting craft have been delivered to a wide range of destinations and are often featured in the spectacular photographs taken by the yard’s owner.

This particular, very impressive pilot boat for an experienced Arab owner is typical of the Safehaven breed – strong, safe, comfortable and comparatively economical.

"Murshid provided a good fusion of economy, seakeeping and on-board comfort for her crew and pilots," Frank Kowalski, owner of Safehaven Marine, told Baird Maritime. "Luckily, she worked perfectly straight out of the box, no doubt because she was based on [a] proven 16.5-metre hull."

The boat was delivered in the latter half of 2024, a year that Kowalski said was Safehaven Marine's busiest year in its history, with a turnover of nearly €10 million (US$12 million). The year 2025 has also been forecast to deliver the same results for the company while the orderbook is full through late 2026.

"We see the pilotage industry maintaining its level of newbuilds certainly for the next few years, with a focus on reliability for the ports and safety for pilots," Kowalski replied when asked about the state of the pilotage industry.

Meanwhile, regarding Ireland's own workboat industry, Kowalski remarked that it is, "maintaining its place in the global marketplace," despite being relatively small.

For a list of the 2024 "Best Of" award winners, please click here.