State-of-the-art 22-metre craft marks reset after £3.6m pilot boat controversy

THE PORT OF MILFORD HAVEN has taken delivery of a new 22-metre pilot vessel, marking a major investment in safety and operational capability on one of the UK’s busiest waterways.

The vessel, named Llanion, has arrived in Welsh waters following a successful delivery voyage from the Netherlands, where it was built by Next Generation Shipyards.

Designed specifically for pilotage operations, the new craft features a modern hull design, self-righting capability, and advanced safety systems, enabling it to operate in challenging conditions while supporting the safe movement of vessels across the Milford Haven Waterway.

Its arrival effectively brings to a close a long-running saga surrounding a previous generation of pilot boats built locally in Pembrokeshire at a reported cost of around £3.6 million. The Pembrokeshire Herald previously reported extensively on the issue, including a front-page story highlighting concerns about the vessels’ performance and suitability for operational use.

Those vessels were later withdrawn from frontline service following safety concerns raised by crews.

Since taking over as Chief Executive, Tom Sawyer has overseen a shift in direction at the Port, with a stronger emphasis on operational reliability, safety and long-term performance. The commissioning of Llanion is widely seen as part of that reset, addressing issues that had affected confidence in the pilot fleet.

Tom Sawyer said: “This project is a testament to collaboration and innovation. Working closely with our partners and our own technical teams, we now have a vessel that reflects the highest standards of design, safety and operational capability.

“Llanion will play a key role in supporting the safe and reliable movement of vessels on the Milford Haven Waterway for years to come.”

The new vessel is the result of a five-year collaboration between the Port of Milford Haven, naval architects BMT, Camarc Design and the Dutch shipyard, with Port teams closely involved throughout.

Dirk Keizer, Technical Director at Next Generation Shipyards, said the company was “extremely proud” to deliver the vessel, adding that it “excels in safety, performance and reliability.”

Ed Soothill, Technical Director at Camarc Design, said it was “wonderful to see Llanion arriving in Milford Haven,” while Steven Lee, Chief Naval Architect at BMT, described the vessel as “the Port’s next generation pilot boat.”

The Port of Milford Haven is the UK’s largest energy port and a key economic driver in Pembrokeshire, supporting thousands of jobs and handling a significant share of Britain’s oil and gas imports.

Photo caption:

New arrival: The Port of Milford Haven’s 22-metre pilot vessel Llanion (Pic: Port of Milford Haven).

Residents urged to recognise outstanding local volunteers

NOMINATIONS have opened for the Milford Haven Town Council Citizens’ Awards 2026, celebrating individuals and groups who make a difference in the community.

The awards recognise those working in a voluntary capacity, with the council confirming that nominees must not be paid for their role. Previous award recipients are not eligible for further consideration.

Residents can obtain nomination forms by emailing [email protected], downloading them from the council’s website, or by calling 01646 692505.

Completed nominations must be submitted by no later than 12:00pm on Monday (Apr 20), 2026.

The council is encouraging members of the public to put forward deserving candidates who have made a positive contribution to life in Milford Haven.

Part-time outdoor role available with April application deadline

MILFORD HAVEN TOWN COUNCIL is inviting applications for a part-time handyperson role focused on maintaining key public spaces across the town.

The council is seeking an individual who enjoys working outdoors, with duties including upkeep of amenities and outdoor areas at Milford Haven Cemetery and other locations within the town.

Applicants must hold a clean driving licence, and the successful candidate will be subject to a DBS check.

The position is offered on a three-day working week, with seven hours per day. The salary is set at £15,179.80 per annum, equivalent to £13.86 per hour. The council has indicated that some weekend work may be required to support civic events.

Anyone interested in applying is asked to request an application pack by emailing the Town Clerk at [email protected].

The closing date for applications is Wednesday (Apr 15), 2026.