Falmouth Harbour Welcomes New Pilot Boat Fueled by Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil

Falmouth Harbour has taken delivery of a new pilot boat, costing £1.6 million, which runs on hydrogenated vegetable oil (HVO). The 16.6-meter (54.5-foot) vessel, named Atlantic, replaces the 46-year-old LK Mitchell, which left the port last September. This eco-fuel powered boat will join the port’s other pilot boat, Arrow, to assist larger ships in navigating the natural harbour. Miles Carden, CEO of Falmouth Harbour, stated that Atlantic would help the port “meet its sustainability targets and run on HVO fuel as soon as her trials are complete.” He added, “Our pilot boat crews work throughout the year, in all weathers and conditions, to keep our harbour open and safe to shipping and they deserve the best equipment we can buy,” Carden also remarked, “We are very excited to welcome Atlantic into our pilot fleet – she will be an incredible asset for the next 20-30 years.” He further mentioned that Atlantic is 30% more efficient than its predecessor, boasts a design speed of more than 22 knots (25 mph), and has a range exceeding 250 nautical miles (287 miles).