Port of Dover first pilot boat in 20 years

The Port of Dover’s new Pilot Boat “DHB Diligent”, is now operational after a naming ceremony which saw her being christened by Godmother Emma Ward, the Port of Dover’s Chief Operations Officer.

The investment in this brand new, state of the art vessel is the latest example of the Port’s purpose to provide seamless, modern and sustainable assets for its highly skilled team. From large, world-renowned cruise and cargo ships to small leisure boats and yachts, Diligent will help guide a diverse range of vessels into the Port safely through the world’s busiest shipping lane.

Following three years of hard work, trials and consultations with the team and expert partners in the industry, DHB Diligent arrived in July 2024. Developed in collaboration with Holyhead Marine, the pilot boat is fully equipped with cutting-edge technology and powered by HVO diesel to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.

Steven Manser, Harbour Master at the Port of Dover said: “Diligent is a brilliant addition to our important fleet of pilot vessels and we are extremely proud to celebrate today as she officially starts operation. Brand new and with the latest features, she will provide exceptional assistance to our pilots, who do a great job escorting vessels into berth, sometimes during challenging weather conditions.

“I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Holyhead Marine for our fantastic new vessel, and to the Port’s marine and project teams, particularly Mick Langley our veteran coxswain, whose 42 years of service have been invaluable.

“Lastly, congratulations to Marc Stanley, the winner of our Vessel Naming Competition, who chose a name that suits our new team member perfectly!”

About The Port of Dover

• The Port of Dover is closing the gap every day between the UK and the world by connecting trade, travel, visitors and communities locally-globally, collaborating with local and international partners to create a more seamless, sustainable and tech-enabled port.
• As the UK’s busiest international ferry port and a vital gateway for the movement of people and trade, Dover handles £144 billion of trade per year, 33% of UK trade in goods with the EU and welcomes over 11 million passengers.
• Dover is an award-winning cruise port, delivering world class travel and visitor experiences to over 20 different cruise lines each year. With a growing and diversifying cargo business operating from state-of-the-art facilities, a new marina which is at the centre of the revived waterfront, plus opportunities for further expansion in the future, Dover’s proud history dating back 400 years has a new modern twist.