Newly built vessel enhances the Laurentian Pilotage Authority’s fleet
The Laurentian Pilotage Authority took delivery in Montreal of a brand-new pilot vessel from the Estonian shipbuilder Baltic Workboats on August 16th.
Named Shipeku, which means “green” in the Innu-aimun language, the fuel-efficient vessel facilitates a stable ride even in rough seas. The vessel's standout feature is its innovative wave-piercing hull, designed to enhance both seakeeping and maneuverability.
Crafted entirely from aluminum, its 16.99-metre (55.7-foot) length and 5.6-metre (18.3-foot) width offer space for one coxswain and up to six pilots or passengers. Equipped with self-righting capabilities, the vessel provides safe pilot transfer services even in challenging weather conditions, including temperatures as low as -25° Celsius (-13° Fahrenheit).
Its unique hull design not only provides better performance in icy waters but also reduces vertical acceleration by up to 40%, outperforming conventional hulls. Along with greater fuel efficiency, the advanced design significantly lowers noise and vibration levels compared to traditional pilot vessels.
Propelled by two Volvo Penta D16 engines, each producing 551 kW, and fueled by two 1,400-litre tanks, Shipeku adheres to IMO’s Tier III standards for emissions. The onboard electronics include dual Simrad radars and displays powered by a Kohler 5EFKOD generator.