Bussiness News

The Laurentian Pilotage Authority (LPA), based in Montreal, recently commissioned a new pilot boat constructed at Hike Metal Products Ltd shipyard and designed by Lengkeek Vessel Engineering Inc. Central Canadian Cat dealer Toromont was in charge of supplying the propulsion machinery and generator sets.  Named “Grandes Eaux” (Mighty River), the vessel is powered by twin Cat C32 ACERT propulsion engines rated at 950 hp (709 bkW) at 1600 rpm and is capable of 25 knots. On-board electrical power comes from two Cat C2.2T generator sets each rated 29.5 ekW.  The pilot boat operates from Les Escoumins and transfers pilots to and from ships along the mighty St. Lawrence River. 

“These pilot boats need to be reliable and accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” remarked Mr. Réjean Lanteigne, Chief Executive Officer for LPA.  “Other boats in our fleet have experienced problems, so our team chose Caterpillar and the C32 ACERT for its product reliability and wide service presence.  The engines are truly an outstanding piece of machinery as great as the boat itself.”

The “Grandes Eaux” demonstrates some of the latest technology and safety features being designed for modern pilot boats, such as deck- and hand-rail heating to avoid ice build up, a stern-mounted hydraulic lift to aid an overboard passenger, and a neoprene fender to cushion impacts during pilot transfers.  Aside from unique features on the boat itself, the success of Cat marine engines in pilot boat applications relies on detailed application and installation planning to ensure the design of the engine perfectly matches the design of the vessel.  For example, the Toromont engineering team worked to perfectly tune the Caterpillar-supplied Multi-Station Control System (MSCS) to provide instant shifting and throttle response essential for close-quarters maneuvering in rough weather.

As the global economy recovers from the recession and the demand for commercial trade grows, so will the number of vessels visiting Canadian ports. They will be in good hands with Cat powered pilot boats carrying highly competent marine pilots to guide these visiting ships in and out of the ports.