New 23-knot pilot boat for Sète: why road transport beats a 1,500-mile sea

French shipbuilder JFA Naval has delivered a new pilot boat to the Port of Sète, completing a project that faced initial setbacks. The vessel was originally commissioned at Chantiers Bernard, but after the shipyard encountered difficulties, JFA Naval took over the construction. The composite hull and wheelhouse were transferred to JFA Naval’s facilities, where the company installed all technical systems, deck equipment, and interior fittings.

The pilot boat, designed by Nantes-based naval architecture firm Archi Delion, is built to meet the rigorous demands of maritime pilot operations. With a capacity for up to eight people, the vessel emphasizes robustness, performance, and safety. Its design prioritizes manoeuvrability, ergonomics, and operational efficiency, ensuring pilot comfort even in challenging sea conditions.

Before delivery, the pilot boat underwent extensive sea trials to validate its performance. The tests confirmed a top speed of 23 knots when fully loaded, along with excellent seakeeping abilities. Engineers also verified that all onboard systems—including navigation and safety equipment—functioned correctly and met regulatory standards under French Category 3 certification.

Sea trials confirm vessel’s capabilities: Sète

Instead of sailing around the Iberian Peninsula, which would have posed risks for a vessel with Category 3 certification, the pilot boat will be transported by road to Sète. Once it arrives, the local pilot station will complete the commissioning process, allowing the vessel to enter service without delay.

JFA Naval’s successful completion of the project underscores its expertise in building and refitting specialized professional vessels, even when taking over mid-construction.

Maritime artificial intelligence Go deeper with:

Sign up free to ask CAMAL AI for a summary, the key points or anything else about this story.

Sign up free I already have an account

Related stories

CAMAL AI

10 Lives Lost as Turkish Cargo Ship Vanishes in 11 Minutes FP Toxic Fumes Kill Two as Chemical Leak Engulfs Indonesian Cargo Ship Weihong Nguyen 21 Injured as Ferry Rams Tanker Near Penang Port in Night Collision Aryan Kumar