Shipping Arabia, October 14, 2026 – Egypt’s Damietta Port Authority has commissioned two new high-speed pilot boats, Pilot 1 and Pilot 2, as part of its fleet modernization program. The vessels have entered service to strengthen marine operations, improve response capabilities and support growing vessel traffic at the port.
The commissioning coincided with celebrations marking the anniversary of Egypt’s October Victory. The addition of the two vessels forms part of the authority’s efforts to modernize its marine service fleet and maintain efficient port operations.
The new Damietta Port pilot boats combine speed, maneuverability and modern navigation equipment. Their deployment aims to enhance the port’s operational readiness and ensure the continued delivery of reliable marine services as shipping activities expand.
Technical Specifications of the New Pilot Boats
The two vessels were constructed by Egyptian Ship Repair & Building Co. using marine-grade aluminum alloy. Each boat measures 15.3 meters in length, with a beam of 5.2 meters and a draft of 1.4 meters.
Each vessel is powered by two engines rated at 550 horsepower each, enabling a maximum speed of 25 knots. The boats also have a cruising range of 500 nautical miles at cruising speed, providing operational flexibility for marine service assignments.
These specifications are intended to support rapid response and effective maneuvering during maritime operations. The combination of engine power, speed and vessel design strengthens the authority’s ability to carry out marine service activities efficiently.
Both pilot boats feature modern navigation and communication equipment, including marine radar, echo sounders, positioning systems and Automatic Identification Systems (AIS). They also carry integrated safety equipment and systems designed to recover personnel from the water.
Construction, Delivery and Commissioning
Damietta Port Authority received the two pilot boats following completion of construction by Egyptian Ship Repair & Building Co., in accordance with the contract between the two organizations.
After construction, both vessels were transported by road to Damietta Port. They were subsequently launched into the water from the port’s marine services quay before entering operational service.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by Damietta Port Authority Chairman Rear Admiral Tarek Adly Abdullah, alongside Vice Chairman Rear Admiral Ahmed Hamdy Abdelaziz.
Other attendees included Captain Yasser Abdel Latif, Head of the Central Department of Marine Services, and Rear Admiral Refaat El Mardini, Head of the Central Department of Movement and Areas. Several senior departmental officials and general managers from the authority also participated.
Strengthening Damietta Port’s Marine Service Fleet
The introduction of the new Damietta Port pilot boats represents another step in the authority’s program to develop and modernize its marine fleet.
The investment responds to increasing vessel traffic and maritime activities at the port. By introducing modern, high-speed vessels, the authority aims to improve operational readiness, strengthen marine service capabilities and maintain the regular movement of vessels and port services.
The two boats also provide additional capacity for executing marine assignments that require rapid movement, maneuverability and reliable onboard safety systems.
Beyond the operational improvements at Damietta Port, the project demonstrates the capabilities of Egyptian shipbuilding companies to manufacture specialized marine service vessels for domestic ports.
According to the authority, the project reflects the ability of local shipbuilders to deliver vessels that meet operational requirements and possess specifications that enable them to compete in the maritime market.
The commissioning of Pilot 1 and Pilot 2 therefore supports both the modernization of Damietta Port’s marine service fleet and the development of locally manufactured vessels for Egypt’s port sector.
Source: Al Borsa News