Vessels discharge water cannons and create a rainbow as the new pilot boat at Montrose harbour arrives. Image: Paul Reid.
Montrose Port Authority’s new £800,000 pilot boat was greeted with water cannons as it arrived on Thursday afternoon.
The Interceptor 48 model pilot boat was constructed by Safehaven Marine in Youghal, Ireland and completed its sea trials at the Port of Cork.
It then made her maiden voyage to Montrose by travelling across the Irish Sea to Oban, around the top of Scotland and down the east coast.
Pilot boats help guide incoming and outgoing vessels at the harbour.
The vessel, named the South Esk, was guided into harbour by the town’s lifeboat and the old pilot boat.
As it arrived the vessels in the harbour discharged their water cannons, creating a rainbow.
It is the first time in the Montrose’s 200-year trust port history that a purpose-built pilot boat has been ordered. All previous pilot boats have been converted from lifeboats.
The new boat is quieter for neighbouring households and much more fuel efficient.
Harbour master Ross Marshall said: “With this new pilot boat, we are investing in the improved safety of our team.”
Montrose pilot boat pictures
Montrose Port Authority’s new South Esk pilot boat set off on its maiden journey from Ireland. Image: Montrose Port Authority.
On its way into Montrose harbour. The new boat has state-of-the-art features including self-righting capabilities and man overboard rescue equipment. Image: Paul Reid.
The vessel made a little tour around the harbour when it reached Montrose. Image: Paul Reid.
It will soon be used to guide vessels in and out of the harbour. The pilot boat has a forward cabin which has bunks allowing the marine team to rest during extended night time operations. Image: Paul Reid.
The water cannons from other vessels created an arch for the pilot boat. Image: Paul Reid.
Peter Stuart, chairman of Montrose Port Authority, with chief executive Tom Hutchison on board. Image: Paul Reid.
Captain Tom Hutchison poses with South Esk. Image: Paul Reid.
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8 best pictures as new pilot boat makes spectacular arrival at Montrose Port
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