PNG Ports Corporation Limited (PNG Ports) took delivery of its latest pilot boat – Morobe.
She is the fourth customized pilot boat built for PNG Ports by renowned Brisbane-based boat makers, Norman R Wright & Sons, at a cost of AU$2.2mil (K5mil).
Three identical boats – Siabo, Davage and Paga – which were delivered over the last two years,are being used in Port Moresby at the Motukea Port.
Officer in Charge of PNG Ports, Ian Hayden-Smart, said the pilot boat would serve the Lae Port, while the arrival of a fifth pilot boat is expected towards the end of the year.
“PNG Ports has invested circa K25mil on new pilot boats to boost the existing fleet, meet business demands and industry standards,” said Mr Hayden-Smart.
“Morobe has been tested and proven to meet industry standards, and has MOB (Man Over Board) recovery equipment, and easy access for parts and technicians.”
“These new customized boats also have good fuel capacity, good speed and fuel consumption, good fendering system and superior stability.”
“This investment will have maximum returns as PNG Ports continues to step up pilotage standards as a growth area,” he said.
Morobe will be christened soon at the Lae Port.
PNG Ports is the only Pilotage provider in PNG that offers 24/7 coverage across our network of ports.
The customized pilot boats were purchased under a re-fleet program to replace the existing fleet of 15. Of these 15 pilot boats, five were bought from Singapore in 2016 while the rest are from more than 25 years ago.
The re-fleeting program is to ensure that the pilot boats are modern and able to efficiently deliver pilotage services due to the growth in cargo, ports, and demands from the mining and petroleum sector.
Pilot boats are essential to business for PNG Ports as they are specialized vessels that are used to transport pilots to and from ships that are entering or leaving port.
