Congratulations to Captain Dave Pearson, and Master in Training, Tom Breen, for passing their exams for a Pilotage Exemption Certificate. This will allow them to bring the CEMEX Go Innovation into the Port of Southampton without using the services of a Marine Pilot which would otherwise be compulsory.

They have had to learn the geography of the port and it’s approaches in great detail, together with the applicable regulations and bylaws, then demonstrate this local knowledge in practical assessments on board the ship and in an oral exam with the Harbour Master and a Senior Pilot.

Holding the Pilotage Exemption Certificate will benefit the company in terms of safety, flexibility, and cost saving by eliminating the potentially hazardous transfer of pilots from pilot boat to the ship, ensuring the ship is free to arrive and depart from the berth without having to pre-book pilots (we have had a few occasions when the ship has been delayed due to lack of pilot availability), and reducing port costs.