VESSEL REVIEW | Hugangyin 9 – Large pilot vessel to support navigation in China's Shanghai Port

China’s Jiangsu Zhenjiang Shipyard recently delivered a new large pilot vessel ordered by local shipowner Shanghai Shenhuining Maritime Services for operation by the Shanghai Port Pilot Station.

Hugangyin 9 (沪港引9) was designed and built in compliance with China Classification Society rules and is one of the largest pilot vessels in the world. The vessel has an LOA of 120.9 metres (396.7 feet), a beam of 19 metres (62 feet), a design draught of 4.5 metres (15 feet), a depth of 7.8 metres (26 feet), a displacement of 6,000 tonnes, and a deadweight of 1,468. Accommodation is available for 45 crewmembers and up to 88 pilots.

Stable platform designed for inland and coastal waters

The propulsion arrangement consists of two main engines driving propellers. The propulsion coupled with the large hull provides enhanced stability, seakeeping, and wind and wave resistance in addition to delivering a service speed of 14 knots.

Once in service, Hugangyin 9 will be used to provide pilot and crew transfer services for both local and foreign-flagged ships entering and leaving the Port of Shanghai as well as ports along the Yangtze River.

Built to ensure navigational safety

The vessel will accommodate a greater number of ships, as the Shanghai Port Pilot Station is one of the largest pilot stations currently in operation. The builder expects that the use of the new large-capacity pilot vessel will improve the Port of Shanghai's operating efficiency and ensure the orderly flow of ship traffic in the port's waters.