Irish builder Safehaven Marine has been selected for the construction of a new all-weather pilot boat for UAE port operator DP World.
The new boat will be a sister vessel of Murshid, which was delivered by Safehaven Marine to DP World in late 2024.
The vessel will utilise a modified design of an existing Safehaven Marine pilot boat. The vessel has been made slightly longer to provide a longer planing area, thus ensuring higher transit speeds with greater economy.
The boat will have all-FRP construction, an LOA of 18.5 metres, a moulded beam of 4.6 metres, a draught of only 1.5 metres, a lightship displacement of 25 tonnes, and space for up to 12 pilots/passengers in addition to two crewmembers.
Power will be provided by two Caterpillar C18 engines, and sea trials of Murshid proved that this propulsion configuration can deliver a speed of 28.5 knots.
The boat’s hull design will be a deep V, twin chine semi-displacement design providing excellent seakeeping especially in large waves, or where tidal influences introduce dangerous breaking seas.
Safehaven said the design is capable of operating safely in all weather conditions and wave heights up to eight metres.
The main cabin will have shock-mitigating seating for the pilots/passengers, a well-appointed dinette seating area, and a pilot command station. A central helm position will ensure optimal visibility and precise vessel control, promoting safety and efficiency during critical boarding manoeuvres.
