ABOUT THE TWO PILOT BOATS
Belfast Harbour Welcomes Second Pilot Boat, Strengthening Maritime Operations
Approximately two years ago, Belfast Harbour took delivery of a second pilot boat, the "Ben Madigan," completing a two-vessel contract with Cushendall-based Redbay Boats. This marked a significant milestone for both the harbour and the local boat builder.
The "Ben Madigan" joined its sister vessel, the "Captain Michael Evans," which was named in honour of the harbour's deputy harbour master who tragically lost his life in the Cork air disaster in 2011.
Enhanced Capabilities for a Busy Port:
The two vessels, representing a £2 million investment, have proven to be a major asset, playing a crucial role in servicing the increasingly larger cargo and cruise ships that regularly call at the port. With 23 million tonnes of cargo passing through annually and a record-breaking cruise season, the additional pilot boat has been instrumental in meeting the harbour's demanding 24/7 operational needs.
Belfast Harbour's Operations Director, Trevor Anderson, expressed his satisfaction with the investment, emphasizing the importance of the second pilot boat in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the port. He also highlighted the harbour's commitment to supporting local businesses by sourcing the vessel from a Northern Irish supplier.
Cutting-Edge Design and Technology:
The Stormforce 1650 pilot boat is designed to operate safely in all weather conditions. Its improved handling and enhanced comfort allow pilots to board vessels in challenging sea states that would have previously been deemed impossible, ensuring the port remains open year-round.
The design and development of the new vessel began five years ago when Redbay Boats built a prototype to test the technology. The final design was a collaborative effort between Redbay Boats and Belfast Harbour, resulting in a 16.5-metre vessel that is the largest and most complex currently built by the company.
Gary Fyfe, Operations Manager of Redbay Boats, explained that the "Ben Madigan" incorporates several bespoke features, including a high-impact fender system, a more fuel-efficient hull design, and dual work and pilot boat licenses, all of which are unique for this type of boat in the UK.
A Milestone for Redbay Boats:
For Redbay Boats, celebrating its 40th year in business, the delivery of the second pilot boat represents a significant achievement. The company, which employs 22 staff and builds 40 boats a year, recently invested £500,000 in a new factory to accommodate the growth of its product range.
The Cork Air Disaster:
The Cork air disaster, which tragically claimed the life of Belfast Harbour's Deputy Harbour Master, involved Manx2 Flight 7100. On 10 February 2011, the flight crashed on its third attempt to land at Cork Airport in dense fog. Six people, including both pilots, were killed, while six passengers survived with varying degrees of injuries.
The pilot boat, "Captain Michael Evans," serves as a poignant reminder of the dedication and sacrifice of maritime professionals who ensure the safe and efficient operation of ports like Belfast Harbour.
Approximately two years ago, Belfast Harbour took delivery of a second pilot boat, the "Ben Madigan," completing a two-vessel contract with Cushendall-based Redbay Boats. This marked a significant milestone for both the harbour and the local boat builder.
The "Ben Madigan" joined its sister vessel, the "Captain Michael Evans," which was named in honour of the harbour's deputy harbour master who tragically lost his life in the Cork air disaster in 2011.
Enhanced Capabilities for a Busy Port:
The two vessels, representing a £2 million investment, have proven to be a major asset, playing a crucial role in servicing the increasingly larger cargo and cruise ships that regularly call at the port. With 23 million tonnes of cargo passing through annually and a record-breaking cruise season, the additional pilot boat has been instrumental in meeting the harbour's demanding 24/7 operational needs.
Belfast Harbour's Operations Director, Trevor Anderson, expressed his satisfaction with the investment, emphasizing the importance of the second pilot boat in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the port. He also highlighted the harbour's commitment to supporting local businesses by sourcing the vessel from a Northern Irish supplier.
Cutting-Edge Design and Technology:
The Stormforce 1650 pilot boat is designed to operate safely in all weather conditions. Its improved handling and enhanced comfort allow pilots to board vessels in challenging sea states that would have previously been deemed impossible, ensuring the port remains open year-round.
The design and development of the new vessel began five years ago when Redbay Boats built a prototype to test the technology. The final design was a collaborative effort between Redbay Boats and Belfast Harbour, resulting in a 16.5-metre vessel that is the largest and most complex currently built by the company.
Gary Fyfe, Operations Manager of Redbay Boats, explained that the "Ben Madigan" incorporates several bespoke features, including a high-impact fender system, a more fuel-efficient hull design, and dual work and pilot boat licenses, all of which are unique for this type of boat in the UK.
A Milestone for Redbay Boats:
For Redbay Boats, celebrating its 40th year in business, the delivery of the second pilot boat represents a significant achievement. The company, which employs 22 staff and builds 40 boats a year, recently invested £500,000 in a new factory to accommodate the growth of its product range.
The Cork Air Disaster:
The Cork air disaster, which tragically claimed the life of Belfast Harbour's Deputy Harbour Master, involved Manx2 Flight 7100. On 10 February 2011, the flight crashed on its third attempt to land at Cork Airport in dense fog. Six people, including both pilots, were killed, while six passengers survived with varying degrees of injuries.
The pilot boat, "Captain Michael Evans," serves as a poignant reminder of the dedication and sacrifice of maritime professionals who ensure the safe and efficient operation of ports like Belfast Harbour.
ABOUT THE TWO PILOT BOATS