Imagine a giant cargo ship gliding through a narrow channel… but the pilot guiding it isn’t on board. Instead, they’re miles away in a comfortable control center, surrounded by high-definition screens and real-time navigation data. This is the world of remote ship pilotage, and it’s changing how the maritime industry operates.
Developed and pioneered by DanPilot in Denmark, this system allows experienced maritime pilots to guide vessels from shore-based facilities. No risky boat transfers in rough weather. No climbing rope ladders at sea. Just safe, efficient, and precise navigation — without setting foot on the ship.
1. A New Standard for Safety
In traditional shipping, pilots must physically board a vessel, often in dangerous conditions. Remote ship pilotage eliminates this risk. Using advanced tracking, video feeds, and communication systems, pilots can monitor and control navigation remotely. This not only increases safety for the crew but also reduces the chance of costly accidents in congested or hazardous waters.
2. Efficiency with Environmental Benefits
Remote ship pilotage isn’t just safer — it’s smarter. Without the need to slow down for pilot transfers, vessels can maintain speed and optimize their schedules. Less waiting time means lower fuel consumption and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. For global shipping, this technology offers both economic and environmental wins.
3. From Denmark to Global Adoption
What started in Denmark is now attracting global attention. Canada is running trials, Australia is evaluating the concept, Singapore is exploring options, and Sweden is joining the conversation. DanPilot’s ambitious goal is to make remote ship pilotage a standard choice for major shipping routes by 2026. If achieved, this could reshape maritime trade worldwide.
4. Berthmarine’s Role in Supporting Innovation
At Berthmarine, we help ensure smooth transitions to modern systems like remote ship pilotage by providing:
- LSA (Life-Saving Appliances) – essential equipment to protect lives at sea.
- FFE (Fire-Fighting Equipment) – advanced fire protection systems for vessels.
- Hydraulic Repair Services – keeping critical ship systems in peak condition.
- IMPA Code Supply – delivering certified marine equipment anywhere in the world.
Our expertise and global supply network help shipowners and operators integrate remote pilotage safely and effectively.
The Future of Navigation is Here
The bridge may be empty, but the future is full. Remote ship pilotage is more than a technological upgrade — it’s a shift in how the world moves goods across oceans. Safer, faster, greener. The question is not if this will become the new normal, but how soon.