Waterjet-Propelled All-Aluminum Pilot Boat for Shanghai Port

Waterjet-Propelled All-Aluminum Pilot Boat for Shanghai Port（China)

On January 25, 2018, Conglin successfully delivered China’s first waterjet-propelled all-aluminum pilot boat to the Shanghai Port Pilot Station, marking a significant advancement in the country’s pilot vessel technology. The delivery ceremony was attended by representatives from the Shanghai Port Group, the China Maritime Pilots’ Association, and Conglin’s management team.

The vessel features a deep-V hull design, with an overall length of 18.5 meters, a beam of 4.56 meters, and a depth of 2.15 meters. Constructed entirely from marine-grade aluminum alloy, the pilot boat is powered by a twin-engine, twin-waterjet propulsion system, achieving a maximum speed of 27 knots. It can safely accommodate up to 12 pilots, offering fast response, excellent maneuverability, and stable operation in complex harbor conditions.

How We Help Our Clients

The project posed multiple technical challenges. Under a fixed power limit of 750 kW, the vessel was required to reach high speed while maintaining safety and comfort—an ambitious target for any aluminum shipbuilder.

To achieve this, Conglin adopted a proven Finnish hull design as a reference, combined with independent optimization and extensive model testing. Through repeated validation and design refinement, the vessel met all performance targets.

Noise reduction was another critical requirement. By applying special vibration isolation and noise control measures, Conglin successfully limited cabin noise levels to below 68 dB, significantly improving onboard comfort. Environmental performance was also prioritized, with aluminum’s recyclability, clean engine room systems, and eco-friendly interior materials ensuring compliance with strict sustainability standards.

Throughout construction, the project was subject to full-process supervision by classification societies and third-party inspectors, ensuring strict quality control at every stage.

Result

The successful delivery of this pilot boat set a new benchmark for China’s pilot vessel industry, demonstrating the advantages of all-aluminum construction and waterjet propulsion in terms of safety, durability, and lifecycle cost.

This project highlights Conglin’s integrated capabilities in aluminum materials, vessel design, precision fabrication, and quality management, reinforcing our position as a trusted partner for high-performance government and commercial vessels.