Conoship International announce its selection by Baltic Workboats as the principal designer for the concept and basic design of a new-generation pilot vessel commissioned by Vloot. This advanced vessel will enhance operations along the Flemish coast, ensuring efficiency and reliability in challenging North Sea conditions.
Up to 10 + 2 pilots can be stationed on board the new pilot station vessel, which will support sea faring vessels to be safely escorted to Flemish ports. Equipped with a state of the art diesel-electric propulsions system, which is methanol-fuel ready. This way emissions are minimized and can be further reduced in the future when converted.
Reliable performance under the demanding conditions of the North Sea is a crucial design consideration. It is designed for operations in wave heights up to 3.5 meters. Thanks to its multipurpose layout, the vessel can act as a coordination platform during major incidents, offering facilities for evacuation, first aid, and the accommodation of the wounded.
Unlike the current SWATH-type pilot vessels operated by the Flemish coastguard, this new vessel will utilise a monohull design. Drawing on its experience with Dutch pilot station vessels, Conoship has adapted and optimised this configuration to meet Vloot’s specific operational and logistical requirements.
Construction of the vessel will be carried out by Nordic Yards Group, a joint venture between Baltic Workboats and Uudenkaupungin Työvene. Once completed, the vessel will be operated by the Maritime and Coastal Service Agency of the Flemish government. Commissioning is scheduled for 2028.
Its unique character lies in its future-fuel readiness, versatile functionality, and optimized crew comfort. Whether operating in routine pilot transfer roles or serving as a mission-critical response platform, the vessel delivers efficient performance, streamlined workflows, and a comfortable environment for extended service at sea.
Key characteristics:
- +- 80 meters in length
- +- 30 meters in width
- Accommodates up to 20 crew members
- Facilitates up to 10 + 2 pilots
With this project Conoship reinforces their leadership in pilot vessel design and demonstrates its commitment to shaping the future of sustainable maritime operations. The new vessel represents a crucial step toward modernizing the Flemish coastguard’s fleet. Conoship is proud to contribute its expertise and proven design capabilities to this cross-border collaboration supporting safe and resilient maritime operations for our neighbors along the Flemish coast.
