THE The magazine of thePILOT Maritime Pilots' Association

AUTUMN 2017 No. 323

In this issue:

Regional Committee News Houston Pilots Narrow Channels UK Conference Report Autonomous Ships EMPA Football Piloting vessels outside your CHA Image: Approaches to the Haven Ports by M Robarts

Chairman's Report John Pearn

A recent communication from the be an increased emphasis on local MCA to the UKMPA, regarding a contributions. Pilots frequently are noncompliant vessel reinforced this the focus of local interest stories. clause. "I'm also mindful that the Such examples are the recovery hapless pilots shouldn't have to make of redundant oil platforms on the the call in such or similar situations, Tees and the excellent cooperation however, to really lend the issue between pilots and the RN regarding of personnel-safety due credibility the new aircraft carrier at it will be very beneficial if they do and Portsmouth. In order to keep take a tough stand, consistently and the UKMPA website and magazine Many of us consider pilotage to collectively, and simply refuse to fresh and relevant, the webmaster be a localized industry. However, board if circumstances of the case and magazine editor would welcome our practices are often decided by do permit so." any , pilotage or shipping related other persons and organisations. news that you have. These can be The UKMPA attends many meetings Please do your part, by becoming either locally relevant issues or larger to ensure that pilots interests and familiar with the pilot ladder events. Additionally, technical items safety are considered. We work requirements and the revised code. of interest, either observed in the through EMPA at the European Both can be found on the UKMPA media or original papers would also Union, and IMPA at IMO. Recently website www.ukmpa.org Please be most welcome. Please send any much of our attention has been at report any deficiencies to us, we will items of interest to office@ukmpa. a national level. The Port Marine strive to advise the next port and org or [email protected] Safety Code (PMSC) and Guide to also follow it up with the MCA. Good Practice (GTGP) have been At the time of writing I am preparing The UKMPA communicates with reviewed with considerable UKMPA for the UKMPA Conference at its members through a number of input. Regardless of the fact that Middlesborough. As well as different channels. they are not mandatory, they are the welcoming many UK pilots we will standard to which ports will be held Round robin emails and circulars are also be joined by pilot colleagues to account. Pleasingly the Pilots sent for local distribution to active from Italy, France, Netherlands, New Embarkation and Disembarkation members via the Local Secretaries. Zealand and Canada. The following Code is now appended to the GTGP. The UKMPA also uses social UKMPA conference will be held in This Code, originally drafted by media streams such as Twitter @ Bristol in May 2018. Peter Russell a pilot, has ukpilots and the Linkedin UKMPA There are a number of other dates been reviewed many times over the group to provide instantaneous to put in your diary. The IMPA years to keep it up to date with new communication and discussion conference will be held in Dakar, practices and developments. During about topical issues for those that Senegal from 22nd to 27th April 2018. its most recent review the UKMPA have signed up. Many of you will In May 2019 the UKMPA will be (led by Nick Lee, Chairman of the also be familiar with the revamped hosting the EMPA Conference in Tech Committee) was joined by the UKMPA website www.ukmpa.org Liverpool. International conferences UK Harbourmasters' Association, and also the websites of IMPA are an excellent opportunity to British Ports Association, UK Major www.impahq.org and EMPA www. meet with pilots from all over the Ports Group and MCA. Of particular empa-pilots.eu All these websites world. It is often the case that the note, a new clause has been contain a wealth of information that UK has one of the largest number of introduced to the code will be both of interest and a source delegates. Liverpool 2019 will offer of useful information. 4.12 If the ladder presented is you the chance to sample one of noncompliant, or a near miss For many, the Pilot Magazine remains these events. It will coincide with the incident occurs during the transfer, the prime channel of communication. UKMPA conference. It is hoped that an appropriate report must be made Regrettably, due to rising production as many of you as possible will be immediately to the CHA/MCA. and distribution costs this will in able to join us, in what should prove A noncompliant ladder must not future be reduced to two editions to be an exceptional conference as be used until the noncompliance per year. You may notice a slightly well as an opportunity to celebrate is rectified. different format this issue. There will Manchester Pilots' 125th anniversary. Regional Committee News

News from Scotland (Region 4) Recent years have seen an increase in large private yachts visiting the Clyde and West Coast of Scotland. It is an area renowned for some excellent cruising and some of the most beautiful scenery in the UK - if and when the weather allows. Most of our berths are commercial berths and docks but we do have a couple of usable berths in , and there is a berth in Greenock's James Watt Dock marina facility for private vessel arranged to pick me up in its downriver to the Outer Clyde area yachts. Our pilotage regulations tender at Inverkip marina - a far cry and Loch Fyne. The vessel then require pilots for vessels over 120m from the pilot boats we are used to cruised further on down the West in the outer district, which takes in on the Clyde! I was seated in a large coast of the UK. the main Firth of Clyde, and over 60m leather reclining armchair, there was a The latest visitor was the 78m in the inner district, which takes in 50" TV on the bulkhead and 1" deep long Amaryllis, which required the the river to Greenock and Glasgow. carpet throughout and we cruised out services of a Clyde pilot for berthing Larger private yachts therefore to Eclipse at 30 knots. Once on board and departing at the James Watt require pilots. the vessel I was whisked quickly to Dock marina facility in Greenock. the bridge whilst we waited for the Regular visits by larger yachts This vessel had previously spent a owner and his guests to return to the commenced two years ago with the week cruising the South coast of vessel before proceeding outbound arrival of one of the largest private but was drawn to Scotland from Rothesay Bay. yachts in the world. The 161m long by a favourable weather forecast and vessel Eclipse visited the Upper In 2016 the 97m long Eos visited scenic cruising areas. I was allocated Clyde anchorages before taking Greenock, requiring pilotage services, to the pilotage for the vessel as she her owner for a ten day cruise of and earlier this year the 66m long departed James Watt Dock for Loch the West coast and visiting various Lady M required the services of a Fyne and Inverary. Once I was on distilleries. She required a pilot four Clyde pilot three times as she visited board there was a short delay as we times during her passages around Greenock and then Glasgow. Her waited for the guests to be collected the outer Clyde area. For one of these owner and his family boarded the from Glasgow airport, but as soon as pilotage acts I was allocated to the vessel in Glasgow and having spent all were on board we quickly sailed vessel from Rothesay Bay anchorage a couple of days visiting the city and moved quietly out of the dock to out to sea. As our pilot cutter and museums she headed back and out of the river. Most of these was engaged elsewhere the vessels are very manoeuvrable even with their large windage. Amaryllis is equipped with twin propellers, twin rudders, a bow thruster and an azimuth stern thruster. Having

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The Pilot Autumn 2017 made sure we departed without the exception of coal the rest of the John had careers which took them touching the dock walls it is trade in bulk, petroleum products and worldwide until settling into home important for the pilot boat coxswain animal feed appears stable. We are trade work. Bill acted as Master to come alongside very gently starting to see a new generation of with Bowker & King, ARC and finally without touching the vessel's hull car vessels built for the new Panama the Balmoral. He commenced his - black marks from the pilot boat Canal. Generally, these ships are training at in January rubbing strakes are not desirable on 199m long and up to 38m beam. 1999, being authorised as a Bristol the pristine hulls of these yachts. To Channel pilot (Sharpness) on the With the final green light being given this end the yacht's crew are always 1st April 1999. He retired on the 30th to the new Hinkley Point C power well prepared with large fenders at June 2017. station on the Somerset coast, a the ready! Amaryllis came back to new trade has been developing over John's path was slightly different. James Watt Dock a few days later the last year. Huge infrastructure Essentially, he too returned to the to disembark her guests after a ground works have commenced Bristol Channel after serving eight West coast cruise. both at Hinkley and in Avonmouth years as a pilot in . These jobs are very different docks, where contractors are based. He was authorised as a Bristol from our normal pilotage work on A new jetty is being built out into the Channel Pilot (Bristol ports) on the tankers, bulkers, coasters, container channel at Hinkley for the import of 1st February 1997, and retired on ships and cruise ships. The bridge aggregates and other construction the 31st August 2017 after a long equipment is all very familiar from materials. Transhipment from Bristol and happy career. commercial vessels, but it is certainly to Hinkley is envisaged, and the pier We wish them both a long and fitted to a much higher standard. should be completed sometime next happy and fulfilling retirement. It makes for a nice change to pilot year. The port of Avonmouth and the these vessels and it is nice to see Bristol Channel are busy with fast As a point of interest, the old how the 'other half' live occasionally... launches, tugs and jack-up barges authorisations were for the Bristol rumour has it that Amaryllis can be involved in the project. Channel, further qualified for pilot chartered for $1,000,000 per week work at, for example Bristol This summer sees an end of an era in - certainly beyond the means of a Channel to Cardiff or Bristol to the Channel. Sharpness & Gloucester Clyde pilot! Matt Hill Sharpness. It is interesting to note pilot Bill Payne and John Freegard of that the pilot apprentice system Bristol (and previously Southampton), News from the West of England has been reintroduced by ABP in retired. I believe they were the (Region 6) SE Wales and their first 'new' last serving pilots who were pilot Shipping traffic volumes in the Bristol apprentice authorised on the 1st apprentices on the Bristol boat in Channel over the last twelve months July 2017 is Kym Hughes from Barry. the early 1970s. Pilot apprentices have not dropped, indeed overall this We wish him well in his new career. generally became 'uncert' third year may well be as good as the last. mates and had to achieve a Mate's Best wishes, fair weather and safe Certainly, pilot acts seem stable. certificate FG and then be invited trips to all from the west. Trade in Bristol, as ever, still features back before the age of 40, having Tony Anderton large volumes of car trade, and with never worked ashore. Both Bill and

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The Pilot Autumn 2017 Press release from South Wales A history of the Port of 1970s, followed by Dooley, (Region 6) (Region 2) Walton and Trinity Terminal, the INCREASE IN CRUISE CALLS Founded by Colonel George Tomline UK's first post-panamax facility, AS SECTOR GROWS AT ABP in 1875, the began which was built in phases through SOUTH WALES life as the Felixstowe Railway and the 1980s and 1990s, with the final Pier Company. The Port survived phase completed in 2004. Six vessels and over 5000 two World Wars and a number of passengers will use the port Since then growth has continued. changes of ownership, and in 1966 facilities and services provided by The most recent phase of work began on the New South Quay. ABP South Wales between May development, Berths 8 & 9, was Opening on the 1st July 1967, and and October 2017. opened in 2011 and was extended later renamed Landguard Container in 2015. The creation of the newest Matthew Kennerley, Director, ABP Terminal, it was the UK's first terminal involved the reclamation South Wales, said: 'This increase purpose-built container terminal. of additional land from the River in cruise calls is the result of This development helped establish Orwell but also included the site of considerable marketing activity Felixstowe as the UK's largest the New South Quay, bringing the between ABP, Cruise Wales and container port. Its first dedicated story full-circle and ensuring that the the respective local Councils to container terminal, originally known largest container ships in the world promote the various attractions as the New South Quay, opened with are handled where the very first for day visitors on cruise lines in just 500ft (152m) of quay and a single container ships visited 50 years the immediate hinterland of the Paceco Vickers portainer crane. ago. The 50th anniversary of that South Wales ports. The operation today bears no real major event will be celebrated 'There is significant potential to resemblance to those early years. throughout 2017. increase the number of cruise The scale and level of technical Continual investment over the last holidays that embark in South innovation have grown beyond 50 years has ensured that the Port Wales to provide greater recognition. But not everything has of Felixstowe has maintained its accessibility and ease for changed. In 1967 Felixstowe was position as the clear market leader. passengers from Wales, the developed because of its proximity Today, the port handles the world's South-West and the Midlands. to the main shipping lanes and the largest container ships and boasts We will continue to work with our major ports of Northern Europe. nine berths providing over 3,000 partners to promote our three That remains a key differentiator. metres of deep-water container quay cruise ports and the wider South But since then its position has been serviced by 33 ship-to-shore gantry Wales region.' improved by the development of cranes. Paul Davey road and rail links. Four of the vessels will visit the ports for day calls. Passengers Change has been a constant at will disembark for the day to Felixstowe over the last 50 years. explore South Wales. The other The second phase of Landguard two vessels give local passengers Terminal was completed in the the chance to board cruises to locations that include, Spain, Portugal, France, and the Isles of Scilly. This is the first time that passengers have been given an opportunity to start their cruises at Cardiff and Newport, as a result of the start of new cruise routes by Cruise and Maritime (CMV). CMV have already announced six further cruise calls for 2018 that will allow passengers to embark on cruises from Cardiff for destinations to include Iceland, France, and the Isles of Scilly. (Media Permission by Gareth Lewis Corporate Communications Manager ) Felixstowe 1967

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The Pilot Autumn 2017 Port of Felixstowe: Languard and Trinity berths

Press release from Felixstowe (Region 2) THE WORLD'S LARGEST , THE 21,413 TEU OOCL HONG KONG, HAS MADE ITS MAIDEN CALL AT HUTCHISON PORTS PORT OF FELIXSTOWE. 22ND JUNE 2017 The world's largest container ship, the 21,413 TEU OOCL Hong Kong, has made its maiden call at Hutchison Ports Port of Felixstowe. The call represented a double celebration it also marked the return of OOCL to the UK's "Our relationship with OOCL goes community. We truly look forward largest container port after a 17 back 40 years and we are delighted to working more closely with our year absence. to welcome them back to the Port of customers, business partners Commenting on the two events, Felixstowe as part of the Ocean and with the port community in Clemence Cheng, Chief Executive Alliance. We are honoured to have developing our synergies or growth." Officer of the Port of Felixstowe and been chosen as the main UK hub for The 210,890 gross tonne vessel Managing Director of Hutchison the Ocean Alliance and look forward was built at Samsung Heavy Ports Europe, said: to continuing to work with OOCL Industries' (SHI) shipyard in Geoje, "The OOCL Hong Kong is the latest and the other alliance partners to South Korea. Measuring 400 in a line of mega vessels to call at provide the best possible service metres in length and with a width of the Port of Felixstowe. The port's to UK importers and exporters." 58.8 metres, the OOCL Hong Kong location close to the main shipping Richard Hew, Managing Director serves the Asia-Europe trade lane lanes and the ports of Northern of OOCL, added: as part of OOCL's LL1 service. Europe, combined with a unique "We are very delighted by the warm combination of road and rail The Ocean Alliance consists of welcome that the OOCL Hong Kong connections, makes it the first OOCL, CMA CGM, Cosco Shipping received from the Port of Felixstowe choice for the latest generation of and Evergreen Line. giant container ships.

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The Pilot Autumn 2017 News from London, Medway, and Southampton Press release from Southampton and a symbol. The visit marks (Region 1) (Region 1) another step towards reconnecting Southampton this year has seen Families flocked to see the Argentina with the rest of the world, retirements but has been busy Argentine Navy sail training ship prioritising mature relationships with recruiting new pilots to replace ARA Libertad when she visited the all countries. At every port she calls retirees. With container Lines for four days. into, the frigate draws thousands of adjusting partnerships and She was open to the public for two visitors, including members of the alliances the port has seen an days and during that time many Argentine community living abroad, increase in the number of Ultra local families took advantage of the local figures and authorities. The Large container ships, including chance to see the vessel which set Libertad provides a space to a call from the MOL Triumph, the the world speed record for a sailing celebrate the artistic, cultural, first 20,000-plus teu container ship crossing the North Atlantic. commercial, sporting, scientific ship. She was the largest for many and gastronomic treasures that Ambassador Carlos Sersale di weeks, until Mr Moeller's second- our country has to offer.' (Media Cerisano said, 'The Frigate Libertad generation triple-E sailed in on her permission by Associated British is both our travelling Ambassador maiden voyage. New trade has Ports – Gareth Lewis)

also prompted a new tug operator to set up on the Solent: Kotug/Smit brought three tugs into port. Medway has recruited three new pilots, Jonathan Mills and Ian Travis returning from other pastures. The port is busy with various trades, cars being the busiest. The LNG terminal is exporting LNG, having its first import of North American Shale gas this summer. At Dover, construction and redevelopment of the old Hover port has started and is progressing well. The plan is for two berths capable of handling container ships and increasing the storage area. London is busy across all trade sectors, and volumes are currently on track to match last year's total. The third berth at the new port of opened at the beginning of the year and it picked up two China trades as a result of a re-shuffling of the Alliances. Recruitment is twelve new pilots this year, in addition to the twelve recruited last year. Among several retirements this year was the notable one of John Clandillion- Baker, affectionately known as JCB. John is hanging up his Sea Safe coat for the final time after over twenty years of piloting on the Thames. Further news from the ports are from their press releases.

Hywel Pugh 8

The Pilot Autumn 2017 Press release from Southampton for destinations across the globe. to the Secretary of State the vital (Region 1) Mr Grayling said, 'I am delighted role the Port of Southampton plays Secretary of State for Transport to visit the Port of Southampton in the UK economy, offering access Chris Grayling MP was given an and see for myself the impressive to international markets for UK insight into the workings of the UK's investment going into it. Ports like businesses and manufacturers. number one port for exports when Southampton are crucial to the On the quayside in Southampton he visited the Port of Southampton long-term growth of our economy the Minister was able to see British this morning. The Minister saw as we work to expand international manufactured goods arriving by first-hand operations at the UK's trade over the next few years. The train and being loaded onto ships largest vehicle handling port, where Government is continually investing ready for export all over the world. the volume of vehicles handled is in road and rail connections to help We also highlighted ABP's ongoing set to grow to 950,000 this year. He improve the logistics at ports across commitment to investing in our viewed the port's two new vehicle the UK. This will continue to be a 21 ports around Britain, and to handling facilities currently under key priority this year as we look working with our customers and construction in Southampton and forward to September's London the Government to help make sure then saw part of a £50m investment International Shipping Week, where trade and exports can continue to in handling UK vehicle exports. we will display the best of the UK's grow in the years ahead.' (Media maritime sector.' permissions from Gareth Lewis Every year the Port of Southampton Corporate Communication handles £40 billion worth of exports Director Alastair Welch, welcoming Manager Associated British Ports) and in 2017 will welcome 1.9 million the Transport Secretary, said: 'It is a passengers joining cruise ships great opportunity to demonstrate

Press release from London tonnes in 2016. Containers and (Region 1) trailers (unitised traffic) was up 7% Trade in the in 2016 to 18 million tonnes; aggregates reached the highest this decade, and cement increased again from rising 10 percent to top 50 million 10.7 million tonnes (16%) up to tonnes for the first time since 2008. 12.4 million tonnes. Cereal volumes This strong performance reflects also increased by 15% to one continued growth at terminals along million tonnes. the Thames. The volumes of oil, containers and building materials all 2016 saw the first cargoes rose markedly. Prior to 2016, port delivered to the Thames Oil Port, throughput had been increasing at the former Coryton oil refinery site between two to three percent, year- now redeveloped as a fuel terminal. on-year. At the Port of , a new chilled store for NFT was opened and PLA chief executive, Robin the acquisition of land for port Mortimer, said: 'Our long term expansion was completed. DP Vision is for 60 to 80 million tonnes World London Gateway handled of cargo to be traded every year increasing numbers of ultra through the Port of London - more large container ships - operating than at any time in the Thames' between Asia and Europe - history. Passing 50 million tonnes in benefiting from its operational 2016 is a major milestone towards resilience in bad weather, as well this goal.' as securing additional central and south American and Oceania The tonnage of cargo handled services. Testing of facilities on at terminals on the Thames last Berth Three at this deep-sea port year was 50.4 million tonnes, five also started at the end of 2016. million tonnes (or 11%) up on 2015. (Media Permission by Martin Growth was principally in oil trades, Garside, ) which rose by 22% from 10.9 million tonnes in 2015 to 13.3 million

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The Pilot Autumn 2017 TheNarrow Invisible Channels Killer Clyde Mike & Robarts Co LLP

In a decision handed down on 13 outside the channel, she had a around a narrow channel and, March 2017, the Admiralty Court speed over the ground of 12.4 knots. in particular, did not apply to a agreed with Alexandra 1 interests Alexandra 1 had her engines at slow vessel in a narrow channel and a on the application of rule 9 of the ahead while awaiting the pilot in the vessel navigating in preparation for Collision Regulations (Colregs) vicinity of buoy no.1. The port bow of entrance to the channel, as in the - the narrow channel rule. In Ever Smart struck the starboard bow case at hand. Also, the Alexandra Alexandra 1 and Ever Smart (2017) of Alexandra 1 at an angle of about 1 was not on a suitably constant EWHC 453 (Admiralty) the Court 40 degrees leading aft on Ever Smart. direction or heading to ever be on

considered which of two rules, the a course for rule 15 to apply. Application of the Narrow Channel narrow channel rule (rule 9) or the Rule and the Crossing Rule There was no dispute that the crossing rule (rule 15), applied in The parties were able to agree dredged channel was a narrow circumstances where one vessel largely on the navigational facts, channel for the purposes of rule was exiting a narrow channel and the but a more substantial dispute 9 of the Colregs. other vessel was navigating towards remained regarding liability, and that channel in preparation for The Admiralty Judge, Teare J, more particularly the relevance and entering it. Both rules in presenting reviewed a number of English applicability of the narrow channel different requirements makes their authorities dating back to the rule and the crossing rule under simultaneous application unsafe and Leverington (1886) in which the rules 9 and 15 of the Colregs in the Admiralty Judge has confirmed application of the crossing rules this situation. that, on the facts of this case, the in the vicinity of a narrow channel narrow channel rule applied and Rule 9 of the Colregs, entitled had been considered. Some of the the crossing rule did not apply. In Narrow Channels, provides at statements of principle (particularly the circumstances Ever Smart was rule 9(a): in the Canberra Star (1962) ordered to bear 80% of the liability A vessel proceeding along the course supported the case of Alexandra 1. for the collision. Alexandra 1 Interests of a narrow channel or fairway shall Teare J derived assistance not only were represented by Clyde & Co keep as near to the outer limit of from the Canberra Star but also (Irvine Marr, Partner, David Owens, the channel or fairway which lies from a decision of the Final Court Senior Associate, Martyn Haines, on her starboard side as is safe of Appeal of Hong Kong, which Master Mariner). and practicable examined the relationship between Facts Rule 15 of the Colregs, entitled the crossing rules and the narrow On 11 February 2015, a collision Crossing Situation, provides: channel rule in circumstances occurred between the laden VLCC When two power-driven vessels (similar to, but not identical to the Alexandra 1 owned by Nautical are crossing so as to involve risk of present case) where one vessel was Challenge Ltd, and a laden container collision, the vessel which has the navigating along a narrow channel vessel, Ever Smart, owned by other on her own starboard side and another was preparing to enter Evergreen Marine (UK) Ltd, just shall keep out of the way and shall, the channel. In Kulemesin v HKSAR outside the dredged entrance and if the circumstances of the case (2013) 16 HKCFA 195 Lord Clarke exit channel to the port of Jebel Ali admit, avoid crossing ahead of considered the issue, as well as in the UAE. Ever Smart had been in the other vessel. previous English authorities, the process of departing the port via before noting at paragraph 225 On behalf of Ever Smart it was the channel and shortly prior to the of his judgment: argued that at the time when she collision had disembarked the pilot was proceeding along the dredged …vessels approaching a narrow and was about to exit the channel. channel heading towards the exit channel and intending to proceed Alexandra 1 had been waiting to (and entrance) point and Alexandra along it are not bound by the enter the port at anchorage when she 1 was near to the channel entrance, crossing rule but must enter the was instructed by Port Control to wait Ever Smart was positioned on the channel and, as they do so, keep "at buoy no.1" where the pilot (the starboard side of Alexandra 1 so that, as near to the starboard side as is same pilot due to disembark from pursuant to rule 15, it fell on the latter safe and practicable in accordance Ever Smart) would board for inbound to keep out of the way of the former. with r.9. It seems to me to follow passage through the entrance that a vessel shaping to enter the channel. As Ever Smart exited the Alexandra 1 interests disagreed channel should, as a matter of good channel her master called to increase and submitted that the crossing seamanship, navigate in such a the engines to full sea speed so rules had very limited application manner that, when she reaches the that at the time of the collision, just to questions of navigation in and

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The Pilot Autumn 2017 channel, she is on the starboard side it would have been apparent that of the application of the narrow of the channel in accordance with r.9. Alexandra 1 had moved less than a channel rule, and why that rule is mile. It would or ought to have been not necessarily displaced merely Teare J summarised matters obvious that she was waiting because it is alleged two vessels are as follows: to embark a pilot. crossing, and also provides a useful I have therefore concluded that rule assessment of the policy underlying 15 of the Collision Regulations, the The finding on this point, although different rules within the Collision crossing rule, did not bind Alexandra not necessarily determinative in Regulations. As the judge put it: 1 when she approached the dredged the case, is nevertheless a helpful To have two sets of rules with channel leading to Jebel Ali and so reminder that in order for the crossing different requirements applying at she was not under a duty to keep out rule to apply, each vessel must be the same time is of course unsafe of the way of Ever Smart. Her duty, on a sufficiently defined course (The and cannot have been intended as a matter of good seamanship, and Alcoa Rambler 1949). On the facts of by those who drafted the Collision as formulated by Lord Clarke, was this case, the finding thatAlexandra Regulations. Similarly, where one to navigate in such a manner that, 1 was not 'on a course' provided an vessel is within a narrow channel when she reached the channel, she alternative basis to show that the and has a vessel on her port bow would be on the starboard side of the crossing rule did not apply. on a crossing course outside the channel in accordance with rule 9. Having determined the principal issue channel but proceeding towards Having reached this conclusion it was between the parties, the judge went it in preparation for entering it, not strictly necessary for the judge to on to assess the conduct of each the vessel in the narrow channel deal with the other submissions by vessel and to apportion liability. cannot be under a duty (pursuant to Alexandra 1 as to why the crossing the crossing rules) to maintain her Apportionment of Liability rule did not apply on the facts of the course and speed and at the same The judge found Ever Smart to be present case, but helpfully he did. time under a duty (pursuant to the in breach of the narrow channel rule In particular he considered whether narrow channel rule) to keep to the (failure to keep to the starboard side Alexandra 1 was on a 'course' for starboard side of the channel since of the channel) and also of failure the purposes of rule 15. The judge the two duties may, depending to keep a good visual and radar noted that Alexandra 1 had been upon the circumstances, require lookout. The Ever Smart was found to proceeding at slow speed and different action. have proceeded at an unsafe speed, variable heading while proceeding having put her engines to The findings of the Judge in this in the vicinity of buoy no.1 while full sea speed, and also of failing case will be of considerable interest awaiting the pilot and commented: to take avoiding action prior to the to the maritime community and At such a slow speed Alexandra collision. In terms of culpability the will assist in avoiding confusion 1 was not very manoeuvrable. judge described these faults as regarding the application of the Nevertheless she made progress in a 'very serious'. Collision Regulations in similar broadly east south easterly direction cases in the future. towards the entrance of the channel Alexandra 1 was found to have as she waited to embark the pilot. failed to keep a good aural lookout Was she on a sufficiently constant to the extent that her master had Irvine Marr direction or heading to be on a misunderstood VHF conversations course? I do not consider that she between another vessel and was. Her "course made good" varied port control that had hindered between 81 and 127 degrees (and his assessment of the situation. her heading varied between 84 and However, whilst this was a held to be 112 degrees). It is difficult to describe a significant error which affected her that as "a course" (though her navigation, the errors of Ever Smart preliminary act describes her as being in her lookout were, in the judge's on an east south easterly course). I view, 'much worse'. would describe her as maintaining Having considered all the evidence a broadly east or east south easterly Martyn Haines Teare J concluded that Ever Smart heading as she waited for the pilot should bear 80% of the liability for vessel to approach. That required her the collision and Alexandra 1 should to have some, but not very much, bear 20% of the liability for way on. I would describe Alexandra 1 the collision. as waiting for the pilot vessel to arrive rather than being on a course. Had Conclusion a good lookout been kept on board The decision of the Admiralty Ever Smart from C-21 until collision Judge is a very helpful illustration

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The Pilot Autumn 2017 UK Ports Conference report Mike Robarts

France, while Germany is the largest importer to the UK. India is expected to be the main superpower in 2028. Currently the EU has 34 trade deals with 54 countries. When the UK leaves the EU it must negotiate a new deal with each. Negotiating will be problematic as there are 27 EU countries, 54 countries that deal with EU, and then each individual country not party to agreements with the EU. If the UK diverts to using World Trade Organisation Rules there would then be a need for Customs declarations on all goods. The panel concluded the Government would need to place extra resources into dealing with this. What can be foreseen is a problem with clearing goods, so UK ports may need to provide extra holding areas and storage depots. Charles Drummond addressed the exposure of to Brexit. 50% to 60% of Forth ports trade is with the EU. As a UK-based business they will continue with investment and expansion, and The Association attended the ninth The Current inbound volumes since the 2008 economic crash Annual UK Ports conference 2017 in of cargo continue to increase productivity of Forth Ports has London organised by the Waterfront (sometimes stuttering but then improved by 20% through labour conference company. The main stabilising); outbound volumes skills and IT. Most European theme of the conference was 'The continue to fall. The composition countries have major elections future of the UK ports industry' . of trade is that liquid bulk is still the between now and Brexit. If a trade largest volume of cargo and Ro/ deal is struck then the proposed EU Opening the conference Theresa Ro now matches dry bulk volumes. bill of £100 billion could be viewed Crossley, Chief Executive of the UK Container volumes through the as an investment. Currently exports Major Ports Group, commented that UK are holding. The main demand are benefiting from the poorer with the dissolving of Parliament drivers are environmental policy on exchange rate. Concerns for all UK it would not be possible to get coal being replaced with biomass ports groups centre on frictionless complete answers on questions and a new focus on renewables. trade, particularly in relation to on policy. There is still a global oversupply customs and storage. Expansion Tim Walters, Maritime Market of steel. in the Tilbury terminals continues Research, gave an overview of as customers seek more land David Wells, CEO Freight Transport the recent trends in trade and the and demand greater productivity. Association, Charles Hammond, outlook for shipping in the UK. EU customs regulations will be Chief Executive Forth Ports, and Tim During his talk he said there would be transposed to UK, in anticipation Walters, Maritime Market Research, challenges and opportunities to be of which the UK Customs IT system formed a panel to discuss ' Brexit faced and that Government worked is being overhauled. The 40 months Implications'. They discussed the mix on a basis of composing a national after Brexit will be crucial for trade, in Imports/Exports which will change strategy because ports are expected because it is the average time to if no free trade deal is agreed. They to be self-financing. strike a trade deal with the USA gave the impression that the main and China. trade areas are with the USA and 12

The Pilot Autumn 2017 David Balston, Director of Policy Lucy Hudson of Northern Freight and How about EU law in return for free Chamber of Shipping, gave Logistics discussed the group's work trade agreement with the EU? Will a perspective on changing and how they lobbied for regional World Trade regulations on state environmental challenges. His growth. They had Parliamentary time aid mean a possible reduction overview of the current UK shipping booked and had investigated and on regulations and subsidies? sector began with the fiscal benefits analysed how £100 billion of funding Though State aid reduces a need derived from UK Shipping – 239,900 could be sourced and used to benefit for subsidies, could this provoke jobs, £9.9 billion to GDP, £2.5 billion trade and transport in the north of competition between regions to HM Treasury. Then he explained England. A business case had been within the UK? that the EU had been helpful to UK proposed for ports in the North, such James Trimmer, Director of Planning Shipping by removing customs as Liverpool and Humber Estuary, and Environment PLA Managing barriers and creating the worlds linking road and rail networks with Complex Waterways, spoke about largest single market – 50% of UK principal cities and other hubs. how the PLA deals with 22 counties trade is with the EU, and the EU Kimela Shah, a consultant with in its port area. Ports are land recognises our qualifications and Oxera, gave a presentation on UK hungry and low value compared to maritime security strategy. He also Ports and the gateways they provide private housing. Views over water added where the EU has been to trade. UK major ports are owned increase house values. The PLA unhelpful – treaty articles prohibiting by private companies, therefore has individual terminals rather than of discrimination, gold plating IMO private business deals are important, large port areas. In the 1980s the conventions, port services regulation, as is a constant race of ports to PLA lost many private terminals to passenger rights and environmental handle the larger vessels coming housing and the future of the port's regulations. Post Brexit, the UK could into service, bringing larger volumes assets would be lost if these are find its voice in the IMO again and of cargo. Larger vessels bypassing not protected. The PLA initiated be able to offer better tonnage tax the EU to call at UK ports to remain a statutory provision to protect and concessions. outside customs regulations raises wharfs through a compulsory Some of the current problems are the conundrum of could we handle purchase scheme. This is assessed with the Water Framework Directive, this or will it move to a service on capacity, connectivity and which frustrates the ferry sector. Low of feeders requiring more ship acceptance. The main skill in Sulphur regulations are a problem, rapid clearance? negotiations is in balancing needs because of low supply of this fuel with an ability to deliver what is We are already seeing discrimination which itself causes machinery proposed. There are considerations on contracts in other UK industry problems. Compliance and policing about how residents live with nearby sectors by the EU but no enforcement remain. Scrubbers that heavy port processing plants, discriminations at the moment in the provide a mechanical solution are with the consequent worries over transport sector. Questions which still an expensive retro fit and LNG environmental health, especially could arise post Brexit are these: fuel options are only viable for noise and pollution caused by ships should there be a bloc exemption on new builds. and processing plants operating at inland waterways and hinterland? full capacity.

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The Pilot Autumn 2017 TheWorld's Invisible biggest Killer container Mike Robarts ship HR Wallingford and Haven Authority

World's biggest container ship eases into Felixstowe after pilot training using HR Wallingford's navigation simulators, 12 June 2017 Madrid , the latest in a long line of record-breaking container ships, arrived on 6 June 2017 at the Port of Felixstowe's newest quay, its first port of call in Northern Europe on its maiden voyage. As the world's current biggest container ship (weighing in at 214,286 tonnes, and a massive 399 metres long, with a beam of 58.6m), Madrid Maersk is expected to set a record for carrying the maximum number of standard- sized containers (TEU) on its return leg to Asia. Harwich Haven Authority pilots and Svitzer tug masters used further two Svitzer tugs to conduct to fulfilling their risk assessment and HR Wallingford's UK Ship Simulation harbour towage and safely berth placing them at ease.' the vessel. Textbook transit was Centre to train and develop the best Dr Mark McBride, HR Wallingford's achieved with one tug towing indirect methods to handle the ship, and Ships Group Manager, said: and the other pushing indirect, using determine the limits of the conditions 'The state-of-the-art Ship Simulation methods developed and training in which it could enter and leave the Centre at HR Wallingford provides provided using the simulators. port safely. the perfect platform for the Neil Glendinning, CEO of Harwich HR Wallingford used data provided Harwich Haven Authority pilots Haven Authority, said: 'On 6th by Maersk to construct an accurate and Svitzer tug masters to carry June, Harwich Haven Authority hydrodynamic model of the Madrid out feasibility and design studies Pilots safely conducted the Madrid Maersk prior to the ship's build being for the ever increasing size of Maersk on her inaugural visit to completed. Harwich Haven Authority container ships arriving at the port. the Port of Felixstowe in very Special Category Ship pilots carried We have developed accurate ship challenging environmental conditions. out familiarisation sessions, working manoeuvring models to simulate Preparation for the arrival of this first alongside Svitzer tug masters in close quarters operations, with the of the second generation Maersk integrated tug simulators within HR pilots and tug masters using the Triple E Class vessel had included Wallingford's UK Ship Simulation integrated ship and tug simulators detailed feasibility simulation studies Centre in Oxfordshire, to determine for their continued training and at HR Wallingford, which gave our how the ship would handle in development. This level of precision pilots the confidence to safely handle comparison to other large container enables us to continue to provide the largest vessel in operation in such ships, and to determine the limits the highest level of service to satisfy challenging conditions, and to deliver within which the new vessel could the demanding requirements of the the highest level of service to one of be manoeuvred safely. container ship industry.' our major customers.' Captain Love commented: 'The Madrid Maersk is a Triple-E Mark Pilotage on entry into Felixstowe was hydrodynamic forces acting on II, the first of 's 2nd carried out by Captain Ian Love in these mega container vessels are generation Triple-Es. The original adverse weather, with wind speeds enormous, often peaking at 900 Triple-Es have been regular callers of between 28 and 35 knots with tonnes. For a pilot, the ability to at Felixstowe since 2013. Delivery of occasional gusts above 40 knots, understand, quantify, and use these the remaining 10 Triple-E Mark IIs is which had been shown to be feasible forces to their advantage has never expected to take place between in the simulator. Initially, two Svitzer been greater. For the ship owner and now and the middle of 2018. tugs provided escort towage from captain the knowledge that a full the end of the main channel to the and accurate feasibility study has harbour where they were joined by a been carried out goes a long way 14

The Pilot Autumn 2017 Autonomous Shipping In this part of the magazine we look at what is happening with a number of A note proposals about autonomous ships. The first article concerns Rolls Royce and Svitzer who have trialled a tug in full automatic capability. Next is an article by Lloyds Register, who have certified Global United Gas Carriers as from the Cyber Safe for their autonomous systems on board their vessels. Following this is the agreement between Yara and Kongsberg for a project to develop Editor... an automated container ship. The final article is about an interesting concept and green revolution: the use of sail drones for hydrographic Mike Robarts research in sensitive areas.

Rolls-Royce tests remote vessel

Rolls-Royce and Svitzer have we have made that vision a reality procedure, whilst considering the successfully demonstrated the much sooner than we anticipated.' safety implications associated with world's first remotely operated the first closed demonstration. We Kristian Brauner, Chief Technology commercial vessel in Copenhagen are honoured to be working as Officer, Svitzer, said: 'Disruption harbour, Denmark. Lloyds Register partners on this ground-breaking through innovation is happening in (LR) provided assurance for the project in the industry's journey to almost every industry and sector and vessel against our cyber-enabled autonomous vessels.' technology will also be transforming ships ShipRight procedure. the maritime industry. As the largest The Svitzer Hermod, a Robert Allan The 28m long Svitzer Hermod safely global towage company, Svitzer is ship design, was built in Turkey conducted a number of remotely actively engaging in projects that at the Sanmar yard in 2016. It controlled manoeuvres during a allow us to explore innovative ways is equipped with a Rolls-Royce demonstration earlier this year. From to improve the safety and efficiency Dynamic Positioning System, the quay side in Copenhagen harbour of towage operations to benefit which is the key link to the remote the vessel's captain, stationed at our customers and our crews. With controlled system. The vessel also the vessel's remote base at Svitzer its direct impact on our customer features a range of sensors which headquarters, berthed the vessel performance, operational cost combine different data inputs using alongside the quay, undocked, and environmental footprint vessel advanced software to give the turned 360 degrees, and piloted it to efficiency remains a main driver now captain an enhanced understanding the Svitzer HQ, before docking again. and going forward. We are proud to of the vessel and its surroundings. be partnering with Rolls-Royce in this The data is transmitted reliably and The companies have also signed high-level research and development securely to a Remote Operating an agreement to continue their of systems for remote operation.' Centre (ROC) from where the captain co-operation to test remote and controls the vessel. autonomous operations for vessels. LR's Marine & Offshore Director, Nick The primary systems involved will be Brown, commented: 'Working on this The ROC was designed to redefine autonomous navigation, situational project with Rolls-Royce and Svitzer the way in which vessels are awareness, remote control centre and supporting them on the safe controlled. Instead of copying and communication. demonstration of the Svitzer Hermod existing wheelhouse design the is truly a landmark moment for LR ROC used input from experienced Mikael Makinen, Rolls-Royce, and the industry. With autonomous captains to place the different President – Marine, who witnessed ships likely to enter service soon, system components in the optimum the event, said: 'It was an honour to we have already set out the "how" place to give the master confidence be present at what I believe was a of marine autonomous operations in and control. The aim is to create a world first and a genuinely historic our ShipRight procedure guidance future proof standard for the control moment for the maritime industry. as it is vital these technologies are of vessels remotely. We've been saying for a couple implemented in a safe way and there of years that a remotely operated Throughout the demonstration the is a route for compliance. Lack of commercial vessel would be in vessel had a fully qualified captain prescriptive Rules was no barrier operation by the end of the decade. and crew on board to ensure safe for "de-risking" the project and we Thanks to a unique combination of operation in the event of a provided assurance against LR's Svitzer's operational knowledge and system failure. (Media Permission: cyber-enabled ships ShipRight our technological expertise, Mark Stokes Lloyds Register) 15

The Pilot Autumn 2017 First ships in the world to be certified

Cyber SAFE delivered Lloyd's Register The first ships to be classed with provide on and off-ship decision Carriers, added: 'We, Global United Lloyd's Register's cyber notations support for operators'. This provides Gas Carriers Pte Ltd, wish to thank have been delivered to Global United operators and shore-based support Alpha Ori team for delivering the in Korea. Built by Hanjin Heavy staff with instant access to operating SMARTShip technology to our Industries, in collaboration with Alpha data from these systems for vessel, the Trammo Dietlin, and Ori Technology, the ships have been monitoring and diagnostics through Lloyd's Register for their assessment awarded the notation Cyber (AL- the cloud, with which they can and assigned class notation of – SAFE) certifying the autonomous make more informed decisions Cyber (AL-SAFE). It was a matter of systems on board as safe. and respond to issues faster and great pride for Global United that its more efficiently. vessel was the first ship in the world This is the first real example of the to achieve this autonomous level digital transformation in shipping The Air Handling Unit has been of certification.' – the ships will operate in an certified AL3 which means 'systems autonomous mode for selected that operate autonomously, but Sam Jha, CBO, Alpha Ori functions using cutting edge digital with an active human 'in-the-loop'. Technology, said: 'We are thrilled to technology. The new cyber-enabled The system continuously monitors announce that Trammo Dietlin fitted features allow crew to operate ships operational information from fire and with our SMARTShip technology more efficiently. This is also the first gas systems, cargo systems and is certified with AL-SAFE notation example of a ship certified to stream navigational positioning systems – first ever in the world by Lloyd's data into a big data platform. and then uses this information Register. We believe it to be the to automatically adjust the unit's beginning of maritech transformation The autonomous systems were operating parameters to maintain a that will revolutionise the maritime enabled by Alpha Ori Technology safe and comfortable environment transportation industry and drive with the purpose of several systems within the accommodation space. economic value for all stakeholder being able to operate with a level of including ship owners automation on board three vessels Nick Brown, LR's Marine & Offshore and operators.' to varying degrees. The aim was Director, said: 'LR's innovation, to minimise human error and make consultancy and assurance teams Capt. Rajesh Unni CEO, Synergy the operation of ships' systems safe have performed exceptionally as part Marine Group, commented: and more efficient when running in of this dynamic project, working with 'Our business involves providing autonomous mode. LR provided an entirely new product to us and our comprehensive tailor-made vessel independent assurance services to clients. From this point, the degree management services to our clients. the shipowner during these important of autonomy on cyber-enabled ships The technology of Alpha Ori has first steps, with the objective of will only grow and comprise more high-powered our solutions. We applying descriptive notation to the and more functions and reach higher are delighted to use the Digital vessels in recognition of the work and and higher levels, and thanks to Product Suite of Alpha Ori which certifying the systems as safe. LR's procedures this will be offers us cutting edge technologies achieved safely.' to enable remote vessel monitoring, Elements of the navigation, cargo diagnostics and control.' and machinery systems have been Tatsuya Okamoto, Mitsui & Co. certified AL2, which means 'systems on behalf of Global United Gas

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The Pilot Autumn 2017 Partnership to build world's first autonomous and zero emissions ship development and delivery of all key enabling technologies on Yara Birkeland, including the sensors and integration required for remote and autonomous operations, in addition to the electric drive, battery and propulsion control systems. By moving container transport from land to sea, Yara Birkeland is the start of a major contribution to fulfilling national and international environmental impact goals. The new concept is also a giant step forward towards increased seaborne The vessel Yara Birkeland will company with a mission to feed transportation in general,' says be the world's first fully electric the world and protect the planet, Geir Håøy, President and CEO and autonomous container ship, investing in this zero emission of Kongsberg. with zero emissions. Operation is vessel to transport our crop nutrition As a leading global maritime planned to start in the latter half solutions fits our strategy well. We technology company, Kongsberg's of 2018, shipping products from are proud to work with Kongsberg to integrated control and monitoring Yara's Porsgrunn production plant realise the world's first autonomous, systems are already capable of to Brevik and Larvik in Norway. Yara all-electric vessel to enter commercial providing technology for remote will reduce diesel-powered lorry operation,' says Svein Tore Holsether, and unmanned operations. haulage by 40,000 journeys a year. president and CEO of YARA. Yara Birkeland will benefit from Kongsberg will integrate sensor, 'Every day, more than 100 diesel competence and technologies control, communication and electrical truck journeys are needed to developed across Kongsberg. systems. Autonomous and 100% transport products from Yara's electric, Yara Birkeland will be the 'Developing systems for Porsgrunn plant to ports in Brevik world's most advanced container autonomous operations is a major and Larvik where we ship products feeder ship. opening and natural step for to customers around the world. With Kongsberg, considering our decades Named Yara Birkeland after Yara's this new autonomous battery-driven of expertise in the development and founder, the famous scientist and container vessel we move transport integration of advanced sensors, innovator Kristian Birkeland, the from road to sea and thereby reduce control and communication systems vessel will be the world's first fully noise and dust emissions, improve for all areas of ship operations. Yara electric container feeder. Yara's new the safety of local roads, and Birkeland will set the benchmark vessel will reduce NOx and CO2 reduce NOx and CO2 emissions,' for the application of innovative emissions and improve road safety says Holsether. maritime technology for more by removing up to 40,000 lorry A giant step forward for efficient and environmentally journeys in populated urban areas. seaborne transportation friendly shipping,' says Håøy. Yara Birkeland will initially operate as Kongsberg is responsible for (Media permission: Esben Tuman) a manned vessel, moving to remote operation in 2019 and is expected to perform fully autonomous operations from 2020. The new zero-emission vessel will be a game-changer for global maritime transport contributing to meeting UN sustainability goals. World's first autonomous, all-electric vessel for commercial operation 'As a leading global fertilizer 17

The Pilot Autumn 2017 Saildrones are redefining the

collection of ocean data Savaram Ravindra Saildrone is an organisation that Real-time Data by sunlight to top-up saildrone designs and manufactures solar The data belonging to a specific batteries and to grow phytoplankton and wind powered autonomous research mission is transmitted back or microscopic plants – the basis surface vehicles. These small, self- to shore by satellite and delivered of oceanic food web. The satellite navigating sailboats are mounted seamlessly through Saildrone's API. measurements that can deduce the with advanced sensor packages, The client portal of Saildrone can be ocean properties can be calibrated making the collection of cost- accessed on any tablet/smartphone by the amount of sunlight that is effective, high resolution ocean data or computer for the visualization and scattered back to the sky in the possible at scale. Saildrone is busy manipulation of live data. red colour band. The resulting in developing the world's largest and measurement of chlorophyll-a Custom sensors high resolution datasets, working with concentration is a measure of the The engineers at Saildrone have private and government organizations amount of phytoplankton present. incorporated a suite of sensors into around the globe. The firm believes the saildrone that include dissolved The dissolved oxygen concentration that in planetary models, finer oxygen, salinity, fluorescence, measures the ability of inputs yield finer outputs, and water temperature, ocean surface phytoplankton to change inorganic that the resulting insights will temperature, barometer, air humidity, material – carbon dioxide and have a remarkable impact on our air temperature and wind. Also, the nutrients – into plant biomass understanding of ocean fisheries, engineers are working on additional consumed and passed up the food climate change, carbon cycling and technologies like carbon dioxide- web to larger animals that include weather forecasting. methane sensor for measuring the fish, crab, whales, zooplankton and The solar and wind-powered gas exchange between water and humans. The water salinity and saildrone has a carbon fibre wing air and an acoustic fish finder for temperature govern the oceanic of about 20 feet high, and it speeds examining fish populations. ecosystem's basic physical

through the waters with the help of a conditions. CDOM (coloured What does a Saildrone measure? suite of high resolution sensors. The dissolved organic matter) is a tracer Saildrones measure their position saildrones are quickly manoeuvrable, of river water that has entered the (longitude and latitude), oceanic can travel at speeds up to 14 knots ocean. The ocean currents transport parameters (ocean surface current, and can carry over 200 pounds of passive plankton along with water dissolved coloured organic matter, instrumentation. There is also no to new locales. The magnetic field magnetic field strength, salinity, need to continuously monitor or drive signatures give insight into the water temperature, dissolved saildrones. A saildrone will continue variations in the magnetic field of oxygen concentration, chlorophyll-a on its path like a ship with a set the earth and provide information concentration, and red-light course while taking measurements on seafloor spreading. (backscatter) and atmospheric continuously and sending notice parameters (sunlight, relative Conclusion of potential dangers to on-shore humidity, air temperature, wind and Saildrones have the capability to engineers via satellite. barometric pressure) and report them increase observational infrastructure Fewer ships and more drones via an Iridium satellite data link. in hostile and remote polar regions Most ocean research requires ship where human labour and ship time What does this data reveal? time and this is highly expensive. are potentially hazardous and costly. The position data enables scientists As an alternative, the researcher can The data gathered by saildrones will to plot measurements on a map. autonomously and cost-effectively not only change the understanding The wind pressure and barometric gather data over huge ocean areas of our oceans but will also bring pressure are indicators of mixing in any conditions by supplementing insight into issues such as climate of the upper layers of oceans traditional ships with a fleet of change, ocean acidification, fish and storms as well as foul or fair saildrones. The saildrone is launched populations and weather – and every weather that affects the sailing and retrieved from a dock and person on this planet will be affected conditions of saildrone. Humidity navigates to its destination using by these processes. and air temperature tell whether it only wind power, transiting at 3-5 kts. is cold or warm, perhaps owing to The drone can then perform survey the proximity of sea ice – saildrones patterns that are best suited for the must stay away from this to avoid hull particular research mission or damage. The energy is provided hold station. 18

The Pilot Autumn 2017 Houston Pilots (USA) earn IMO's award for exceptional bravery at sea Clayton L. Diamond

Pilots around the world are counted pilots. While the vessel was unloaded coordinated firefighting efforts via on twenty four hours a day, three at the time, it was carrying more VHF radio with the tugs and the hundred and sixty five days a than 90,000 gallons of fuel. Captain numerous local fireboats that arrived year to use their skills, in-depth McGee was conning the vessel on scene. In the midst of this chaotic local knowledge and informed and undocking it when the ship scene, Captain Phillips had the independent judgment to safely experienced a catastrophic engine wherewithal and calm presence to move all manner of ships through failure that caused the vessel to race break out and charge a fire hose to winding, narrow and crowded to full astern (reaching nearly sea fight and extinguish a fire raging on waterways, often in adverse weather speed). The resultant loss of control the port bridge wing. conditions. This is what pilots do caused the ship to strike two mooring The fire went on for more than – make an extremely challenging dolphins located just off of the end an hour and a half as the pilots and dangerous job look routine. The of ITC Berths 7/8. As a result of the continued to maintain the ship's Houston Pilots are no different. They contact with the mooring dolphins, a position and direct the vessels direct the navigation of ships on port fuel tank ruptured causing a spill fighting the blaze. Once the fire was the Houston Ship Channel, one of of diesel fuel that quickly ignited and extinguished, Captain McGee, using the busiest waterways in the world, created a massive fire on and around assist tugs, was able to bring the where massive product tankers and the vessel. stricken tanker safely to a mooring seemingly countless tugs and barges The seasoned pilots maintained their facility designated by the US Coast share the waters. stations in the wheelhouse, despite Guard. At the end of the night, both Sometimes, however, circumstances being surrounded by a towering pilots' hair was singed and they dictate that pilots must go far wall of burning fuel. The flames suffered burns to their arms above and well beyond their normal reached 200-300 feet in height, and faces. course of duties when protecting rapidly engulfing both sides of the In the end, and as a result of the the waterways for which they are vessel and blanketing the bridge courageous and skilled actions of licensed. Such circumstances wings. The waters surrounding the these two pilots, no lives were lost, occurred for two Houston Pilots ship were also on fire and the flames serious damage to pier structures – Captain Michael G. McGee and quickly spread across the channel, and facilities was prevented, and a Captain Michael C. Phillips – shortly threatening other oil and chemical major marine pollution incident after midnight on September 6, 2016. vessels, as well as nearby shore was avoided. At the end of this night, these two side facilities. pilots would find themselves burned When a full accounting of the Video of the massive inferno on and and exhausted, but responsible details of Captain McGee's and around the M/T Aframax River is for having saved lives, protected Captain Phillips' heroic efforts available at: vulnerable waterfront facilities and became known, the American www.youtube.com/ prevented a massive marine pollution Pilots' Association coordinated watch?v=o8eSzDS1QKs incident. Their actions would later with the International Maritime Pilots' earn the two veteran pilots the Relying on his years of experience Association to nominate Captain International Maritime Organization's and expert seamanship and McGee and Captain Phillips for the (IMO) 2017 Award for Exceptional shiphandling skills, Captain McGee IMO 2017 Award for Exceptional Bravery at Sea, the IMO's highest was able to manoeuvre the crippled Bravery at Sea. The Award, which honour for bravery at sea. They are vessel away from surrounding ships was decided by a Panel of Judges the first pilots to ever receive this and heave to in the middle of the and endorsed by the IMO Council at prestigious international award. channel to prevent the flames from its 118th session in London in July spreading to the numerous tank 2017, will be presented during Captain McGee and Captain Phillips vessels moored on both sides of the a ceremony to be held during the were dispatched by the Houston channel, as well as the vulnerable 30th session of the IMO Assembly Pilots that September evening to petro-chemical facilities along the in November 2017. the M/T Aframax River, which was waterfront. Simultaneously, Captain moored at Houston Fuel Oil Berth 'Captains McGee and Phillips Phillips handled communications 3. Due to its size, this massive exemplify the calibre of dedicated with the US Coast Guard and Panamanian flag tanker required two and highly skilled mariners that make 19

The Pilot Autumn 2017 up the Houston Pilots,' said Captain Public Service Award for their Captain Jorge Viso, President of the Robert Shearon, Presiding Officer bravery. The Meritorious Public American Pilots' Association, said, of the Houston Pilots. 'We are very Service Award is among the highest 'The actions and performance of proud of them as well as of their awards the US Coast Guard can Captain McGee and Captain Phillips achievements and contributions bestow on a civilian and is given during and after the marine casualty to pilotage in this country.' to recognize 'unusual courage and aboard the tanker Aframax River, specific individual accomplishments not only showed tremendous skill, Captain McGee has been a Houston that provide unique benefits to determination, bravery and character Pilot for 18 years and Captain Phillips the public.' on their parts, but also reflected for 24 years. The Houston Pilots are the best traditions of the piloting a group of professional men and In March, Captains McGee and profession in this country.' women who are licensed by the State Phillips were also presented with of Texas to serve as compulsory Professional Mariner magazine's The annual Award for Exceptional marine pilots. The role and official 2017 Samuel Plimsoll Award for Bravery at Sea was established responsibility of these professionals Outstanding Service. This award, by IMO to provide international is to protect the safety of navigation which is presented annually, takes recognition for those who, at the and the marine environment in the its name from Samuel Plimsoll risk of losing their own life, perform waters for which they are licensed. (1824-1898), a Member of Parliament acts of exceptional bravery, in the UK who fought against unsafe displaying outstanding courage In addition to the IMO Award for maritime industry practices. In in attempting to save life at sea Exceptional Bravery at Sea, Captain presenting the Plimsoll Award, the or in attempting to prevent McGee and Captain Phillips have magazine's selection committee or mitigate damage to the been honoured with two other stated, 'It really was one of the finest marine environment. significant awards. In February the examples of state pilots protecting two Houston Pilots were presented the waterway and citizens at their the US Coast Guard's Meritorious own risk.'

UK Football Triumph Kevin Walsh

This year the Empa football points advanced to the final. tournament was held in Bremerhaven All games were 30 minutes long. on the 25th of May in glorious Our first game was against sunshine. The UK once again entered everybody’s favourites Rotterdam a team. We had 15 players of whom and we managed a 4—0 victory, only two had not played before. next Belgium 3—0, then Vlissingen, Our participation was almost over who were really up for a fight, 3—0 before we even left, because team to us, and finally Keil 3—1. So we captain Kevin Walsh had a ship the marched into the final undefeated night before which was caught in with 13 goals for and 1 against, dense fog, meaning he was stuck but we knew we had a tough task on board for 16 hours and missed as Norway were our opponents. his flight. A further three players Players were dropping like flies due also missed the flight because of a to injuries, tiredness and cramp, but serious accident which closed the we knew that because we had a big M62. After numerous phone calls to squad we had a great chance to win Simon Wood, our manager, it was for the first time. decided the missing players would So to the final, and as you can take a night flight, meaning they did imagine, it was really tense: this is not get to the hotel until 01.30, but serious stuff! hey it’s the European Cup. We dominated the match, creating There were 12 teams split into four chances, whilst the Norwegians groups which, after the first group seemed happy to sit back and stage, resulted in four different catch us on the break. groups. The two teams with the most

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The Pilot Autumn 2017 Now in the second half the clock was from the crowd. We closed out the any fresh legs out there to help retain ticking, and I knew, like everybody remaining time to bring the Cup our title please step forward, for reading this, the last thing we needed home to the UK. even if you just want to come and was a penalty shoot out. Again, enjoy the occasion and not play you The presentation was in the evening chances were made, but finally in are welcome. Trust me you will love and it was fantastic. The hosts Weser the last couple of minutes Dave every minute of it. Ems were magnificent and it has Collins broke down the wing and to be said all the teams were very The team: Manager S Wood, Captain crossed Franny Barrett on the edge gracious towards us, and as always K Walsh; L Welsh, I Baird, A Baird, of the box (I thought I heard Kenneth a lot of friends were made amongst J Baird, F Barrett, T Mcdonaugh, M Wolstenhome shout, ‘There’s some the hundreds we have already made Greenslade, B Greenslade, A Devey, people on the pitch. They think its all in the last eight years. D Collins, Z Joachim, P Flanagan, over. IT IS NOW!’). There was a boom I Gram, and D Devey. from the edge of the box as Franny The next tournament is in Marseille smashed the ball into the net and you on the 11th of May. Some of us are could hear the roar and also respect getting on a bit now, so if there are Future changes in global tides will change flood risk and tidal energy decisions National Oceanography Centre The first comprehensive study of the impact of global sea-level rise on tides has implications for future coastal flood risk, harbour management, and the long term planning of tidal energy sites. This research, published in Continental Shelf Research by scientists at the National Oceanography Centre (NOC), University of Southampton and Deltares, shows that sea-level rise can significantly alter tides across the world in many different ways in both space and time. The change will be most pronounced in shelf seas on the east coast of the Americas, northwest Europe, north coast of to 10m of sea level rise were tested a change in the mean high water Russia, across Asia and Australasia. however the results for 0.5, 1 and - the average high tide mark - of 2 metres of sea level rise are of the greater than twenty centimetres. Professor Kevin Horsburgh, a co- most societal relevance. The study The lead author, Dr Mark Pickering, author on the paper from the NOC, also considered the effect of fixed who conducted his research at the said "This research shows that the and receding coastlines and the NOC, explained, "An increase in the tides that many people think of as effect of non-uniform patterns of sea tidal range at the coast matters as constant can be affected by climate level rise associated with melting of it would make coastal flood events change and sea level rise" the polar ice sheets. more likely to occur. However, the This study was conducted by feeding This is also the first study to look at pattern of changing tides is complex, a range of 'plausible' estimates of the implications of changing tides for and in some locations negative global sea level rise, considered major coastal cities which are most at changes in tides will decrease flood by the Intergovernmental Panel on risk from sea-level rise. In the event of risk. Changing tides have wide Climate Change (IPCC), into a model a 2 meter sea level rise, 10 of the 136 ranging implications from flood risk of global tides. Scenarios ranging up global cities analysed will experience and tidal renewables to erosion, 21

The Pilot Autumn 2017 dredging, and shipping." and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam by two metres. However the tidal comparably large decreases in tides change is not always incremental In New Orleans in the United States, may occur, partially offsetting the with the sea-level rise and other the estimated increase in mean high flood risk increase associated studies suggest an increase in tidal water would make a one in 100 year with the sea-level rise. energy here under a one meter storm surge around 25% more likely scenario. This research was funded if sea-level rises by one metre and These tidal changes will also by the Natural Environmental at Dhaka in Bangladesh the same have implications for existing and Research Council (NERC), Deltares surge 40% more likely. This risk will proposed tidal renewable energy and the University of Southampton. increase further when the underlying sites. The proposed Swansea Bay It forms part of the NOC's world- sea-level rise is taken into account. tidal lagoon, for example, may get leading research into modelling On the other hand, the results less energy from the tide in the Bristol tides, global sea-level rise, suggest that at Shanghai in China Channel if global sea-level rises and sea level extremes.

Social Networking

UKMPA members are all box which will take you to the encouraged to participate in relevant registration page. the forum debates on Linkedin. To join the group, sign up for Follow @UKPILOTS on a Linkedin account and type Twitter for pilot safety and "UKMPA" into the group search other industry information.

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The Pilot Autumn 2017 Piloting vessels outside your CHA Ken Pound

On 27th June 2017 many witnessed naval or commercial, entering or These parties might well operate the departure of the aircraft carrier departing Rosyth. as a Trust port or as a Government HMS Queen Elizabeth from Rosyth authorised body such as the Canals It might be considered AFP-Rosyth Dockyard, a pretty impressive sight and River Trust or as a commercial to be an exceptional circumstance - as she passed through the lock port where each may enjoy only it is not. It is a problem that appears gates into the . The Statutory Harbour Authority status. to be far more widespread than departure was only made possible ever imagined. During the past 6 So, how can a pilot or pilot under the conduct of three Forth months or so it has been reported association protect their lawful status Pilots. It was an extremely slick and or discovered that the practice of as a pilot? Simple, they cannot. The trouble free act of pilotage or should pilotage undertaken beyond CHA fact remains that at the moment a this more correctly be called an act port limits is quite common place. vessel departs the CHA port limits, of navigation? The fact is the three What is particularly alarming is he or she no longer is the pilot within pilots were not performing an act the practice has been going on the meaning of the Act, they become of pilotage within the meaning of throughout the country for many the navigator of the vessel and avail the Pilot Act 1987 because Rosyth years and in some instances with themselves to personal liability for Dockyard does not enjoy Competent the blessing of the CHA and in a loss or damage to the vessel, her Harbour Authority status, it is a few instances with the blessing of crew and any third parties. Statutory Harbour Authority. the CHA and the Pilot Association. How then can the pilot seek Now what impact did this have on In all fairness the majority of cases protection? The options are few the pilot(s)? The Forth of Firth falls have been, in part, with the ignorance and of these few two are highly under Compulsory pilotage and of the CHA and to the total ignorance questionable. The SHA may offer to therefore the pilot and the act of of the Pilot Association. Ignorance, indemnify the pilot against loss or pilotageis protected under the Pilot of course, offers no protection to damage but this is a poor instrument Act along with Statutory limitation. the pilot. as it can only offer a safeguard The pilot(s) likewise enjoy the It matters not whether these against loss or damage to owned indemnity provided under the policy practices have been overlooked or and operated vessel(s), equipment of insurance.However, any vessel ignored by a CHA’s and it is right to or property of the SHA, it cannot navigating within a Statutory Harbour say they may have other agendas indemnify a pilot for loss or damage Authority (for example Rosyth but it is vital to the UK pilot to a third party vessel(s), equipment Dockyard), the pilot or better the membership that all understand or property. A "hold harmless" has navigator ceases to enjoy the benefit their own legal position should they always been recognised as a more of the Act and limitation, nor engage in pilotage beyond the port robust instrument but similarly this does the pilot enjoy the benefit limits. Not only do they forsake the offers little more protection than of insurance. There was a point benefit of the Pilot Act and the benefit an indemnity. The only instrument at which the committee of The of limitation they also forsake the available that provides a pilot with Association of Forth Pilots were benefit of indemnity provided under fullest protection is a legally binding steadfast in their refusal to commit the policy of insurance. To put it in a contract of service between a Pilot the 3 pilots until the status of the nutshell they are pursuing a practice Association and the SHA. pilot(s) was resolved and, until such contrary to the provisions of the Act, times this was overcome the carrier If I were to offer any a practice which is unlawful within the was destined to remain trapped in recommendation, I would urge meaning of the Act and consequently the dockyard. The prospect of the all Pilot Associations who engage avail themselves to personal liability vessel being trapped in the dockyard in this practice to seek a legal should loss or damage result. certainly engaged some lengthy binding contractual remedy and dialogue between AFP and Rosyth AFP–Rosyth is a perfect example of if not cease navigating vessels Dockyard and finally agreement was the potential risk to which a pilot is beyond the port limits altogether. reached that each party would enter exposed and it is as well each pilot into a legally binding contract which and his or her respective Association had the effect of absolving the pilot(s) review and ensure that, if likewise from any liability whatsoever. The they are engaging in acts of pilotage contract not only provided for the beyond the port limits, they too departure of the carrier but is now should seek a contractual remedy binding upon all and any traffic, with the Statutory Harbour Authority. 23

The Pilot Autumn 2017 Obituary: Roger Williams 1940-2017 (Retired Bristol Channel Pilot)

It is a serious relation, that in which Fared Well Soon I'll cross the bar, for sure my a man stands to his ship. A ship is a Along the road of memory I wander time is nigh, creature which we have brought into now and then, My turn has come my friends to bid this world, as it were on purpose I hear the wind, I smell the air, I'm you all goodbye, to keep us up to the mark. sailing once again. It's nature's way, no worries ... look, In her handling a ship will not put I'm pacing on a sturdy ship with land Just scribe 'FARED WELL' in my up with a mere pretender. a distant view, seaman's book. Joseph Conrad Recalling of my younger days, Robin Wall worries but a few. I am sad to announce the death of Bristol Channel Pilot and life-long Roger Williams, at home in Bassaleg, Laughter filled the morning watch, friend of Roger Williams Newport with his wife at his side on seafaring was my joy 4th July 2017. When I was young and able, for Vivienne Williams (Roger's sister) I was just a boy. adds that Roger retired on grounds Roger served his apprenticeship with Now my body is failing, I see a of ill health and his problems the then Newport Pilotage Company, twilight sky, somewhat blighted a well-deserved and served for nearly forty years on The sea is in my blood still, retirement. He was a man whose the Bristol Channel, a notoriously at least until I die. horizons were once the world but tricky body of water. His reputation which were in the end limited to as a skilled seaman and as a man of Salt water has its way - it has done enjoyment of his home and family. great integrity has been evident over over years, As a tribute to him and all other his working life, and his colleagues In some form or other - often sweat Bristol Channel Pilots I am working attending his funeral on 19th July or tears. with Tony Anderton, current Bristol wished it to be known that he was I have lived a happy life - no regrets Pilot, to produce an archive of the held in high esteem. Indeed, Robin for me, history of the Channel and the pilots Wall, Bristol based pilot who worked With loving wife and family plus whose contribution to the wealth of with Roger on many occasions, wrote sailing round at sea. South Wales and the English side the following very moving piece of I'd like to tell my family when I leave of the Channel is largely unsung. poetry to mark Roger's passing. them all alone, If pilots past and present have Please forgive these ramblings of stories or items they would like us when I used to roam. to consider, please contact her at For you are in my mind now, as [email protected] I rue my destiny, Vivienne Williams I'll carry on forever, you are my immortality.

A quick note about... IMPA & EMPA

It is often forgotten that all UKMPA members are also members of IMPA & EMPA and with so many issues currently common to pilots around the World, membership of both these associations is of great importance. IMPA: www.impahq.org EMPA: www.empa-pilots.org

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The Pilot Autumn 2017 UKMPA Merchandise

To order any of the below, please email: [email protected] (All prices include p&p)

Baseball Cap: £8.00 Tie: £10.00 Lapel Badge: £3.00 Cufflinks: £15.00 Beanie Hat: £8.00

All active members should have from the UKMPA website. received a card detailing the Minor incident: Forward the Incident procedures to be taken following incident report as directed. an incident. If you haven't During normal office hours you received such a card please procedures can also speak to Drew Smith contact the insurers. at Circle insurance: 0141 242 4822 If you are involved in any incident Major incident: During office and legal (no matter how trivial it may seem hours as above, outside office at the time) it is imperative that hours call 07790 069306 rights you complete an incident report and forward it to the insurance For full details, please refer to company. The incident form with UKMPA Circular: 7 of 2016 instructions can be downloaded

UKMPA Office details

UKMPA Members Details HQS Wellington If any of your personal Temple Stairs details such as address, Victoria Embankment email or telephone number London WC2R 2PN have changed, please inform Email: [email protected] us at the earliest opportunity, Web: www.ukmpa.org so that we can update our membership records. New UNITE Secretarial support details should be sent to provided by Donna Reeve [email protected] 020 7611 2613

Editor's Details Disclaimer: The contents and articles within this magazine represent the Mike Robarts, Editor of The views of the authors and may not necessarily reflect those of the UKMPA. Pilot, can be contacted via Authors are responsible for ensuring that any content is free from any email at [email protected] copyright unless credited in the text. 25

The Pilot Autumn 2017

UKMPA Executive

PosITION CONTACT telephone email/WEB Secretary General Don Cockrill (H) 01795 537310 [email protected] (M) 07966 709403 Chairman John Pearn (H) 01646 601556 [email protected] & IMPA VP (M) 07960 617536 Vice-Chairman Mike Morris (M) 07890 260915 [email protected] & EMPA VP Treasurer (Region 4) Bob Watt (M) 07917 443273 [email protected]

Secretary (Region 3) Peter Lightfoot (M) 07786 153063 [email protected]

Membership Jason Wiltshire (M) 07793 534547 [email protected] (Region 2) [email protected] Region 1 Hywel Pugh (M) 07970 041657 [email protected]

Region 5 Martin James (M) 07850 902560 [email protected]

Region 6 Tony Anderton (M) 07725 424983 [email protected]

Chairman, Technical Nick Lee (M) 07929 053944 [email protected] & Training Committee Insurance Drew Smith 0141 242 4844 [email protected] Circle Insurance 71 Berkeley Street Glasgow G3 7DX

UKMPA Regions

REGION No. AREA COVERED PORTS London, South of England and London, Medway, Dover, , 1 Southampton including the Portsmouth, Southampton, Cowes

2 All ports between Crouch and Cromer Crouch, Harwich Haven, Gt. Yarmouth

All ports on the East Coast of England Kings Lynn, Wisbech, Boston, Humber, 3 between Cromer and Berwick Upon Tweed Seaham, Tees Bay Forth, Perth, , , Peterhead, 4 Scotland Inverness, Cromarty, Sullom Voe, Lerwick, Orkney, Stornaway, Clyde Northern Ireland, North West England, Londonderry, Belfast, Barrow, Heysham, 5 North Wales including Anglesey and Liverpool, Manchester Deep Sea Pilots Milford Haven, SW Wales, SE Wales, Gloucester, South Wales and South West England, 6 Bristol, Falmouth, Scilly Isles, Fowey, Westward of the Isle of Wight Plymouth, Dartmouth, , Poole

If you require local secretary's details, please contact the UKMPA secretary: [email protected]

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The Pilot Autumn 2017

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