In 2008 the Port Phillip Sea Pilots (PPSP) began the process of acquiring 2 new pilot boats. As they had previously lost a pilot boat and crew when the boat overturned, PPSP considered it essential to have new pilot boats that were self-righting. They considered designs from all around the world and after a thorough comparative assessment they chose the French Pantocarene self-righting design and Hart Marine as the builder. From their investigation PPSP realised that the Pantocarene pilot boat design is in a league of its own for all aspects of pilot safety.
The project took 12 months to complete and Akuna IV was delivered mid 2010. Hart Marine's experience and project management skills resulted in the pilot boat meeting all project milestones,being delivered on time and on budget and with immense customer satisfaction. Akuna IV operates out of Queenscliff and provides pilot services to Port Phillip Bay.
PPSP have been so happy with their first two ORC Pilot Boats from Hart Marine that they have recently ordered a third boat.
