Port of Southampton names new pilot vessels

The Majestic and Mary Rose were named at a ceremony at Associated British Ports’ pilot station at Endeavour Quay in Gosport.

The vessels are the final two of three new launches for ABP’s Southampton region and three of nine across ABP’s ports, representing a total investment of around £9m. Steve Masters, Southampton Harbour Master, said it was fantastic to have three vessels in use across Southampton Water and the Solent.

“The vessels take our marine pilots back and forth to board and debark large vessels and support our pilot team when bringing in the largest container, oil tanker and cruise ships through the Solent and Southampton Water.

“To have three in service will provide vital support throughout the busier summer months,” he said.

Each vessel is said to deliver an approximate 40% fuel saving through an innovative forward ‘beak’ and double chine hull design that enables the vessel to cut through the waves.

The vessels are constructed in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, by Goodchild Marine. Majestic and Mary Rose will join Mayflower (the first of the new vessels named last year) at the ABP pilot station in Gosport.