Nautical Consultancy
Description
The coastal and deep sea pilotage service, which was established in 1947 is regulated by national and international legislation, such as the Dutch Pilots Law, European Directive 79/115 (EEG), the IMO Resolution A-486(XII) as well as the "Rules and Regulations for the good government of deep sea pilotage in the North Sea, English Channel and the Skagerrak", or Antwerp Rules, drawn up by the NSPC.
Before a person can act as a deep sea pilot, he has to be in possession of a license, issued by the Dutch government, for which a number of conditions apply. One of these conditions is that the person involved has to have sailed as a (foreign going) Master for at least 6 years, or have acted as a district pilot for at least 4 years.
After having sailed as a deep sea pilot for one year in which he has covered a distance of at least 9000 nautical miles, the deep sea pilot gets the qualification to handle vessels of all sizes. Dirkzwager's Coastal & Deep Sea Pilotage BV endeavors to assign only the most experienced pilots to the deepest drafted vessels, VLCC's and ULCC's, with a draft of over 20 meters.
The pilot's knowledge and competence, as well as the manner he has maintained his Bridgebook -the vademecum containing the nautical charts and port particulars of this area- is tested on a yearly basis.
It is obvious that we are talking about highly qualified navigators, that can draw on a wealth of experience and expertise. This knowledge can be made available to interested parties, such as law-firms specialized in nautical affairs, engineering offices, civil authorities, etc.
On numerous occasions we have been able to assist in giving a thorough and objective opinion about a nautical-judicial dispute in the aftermath of a collision or in the case of damage to cargoes. Apart from that (it is quite well imaginable that) one could make use of the pilots' experience in the handling and maneuvering of all types of vessels, with or without the use of tugboats. This knowledge is essential in the planning and development phase of harbour approach areas and port basins.
Finally, our pilots are quite capable of advising on policy decisions and analyses.
Summary
- Objective opinion in maritime / nautical judicial disputes;
- Advice on policy decisions and analyses (traffic safety);
- Planning and development of harbours and approach areas;
- Based on extensive nautical experience;
- Combining all available knowledge in other disciplines.
