Pilotage fuel surcharges

A message from the port’s harbour master, Ben McInnes, to port users:

It is with regret that I must announce a fuel surcharge on the current pilotage charges for 2022-2023.

The port’s principal pilot boat supplier has levied this charge now for four months, and the port has been absorbing the costs; however, this cannot continue due to the financial pressures on the port itself.

I’m sure you will all be aware of the significant cost rises in marine fuels over the past year and this has put a pressure on the service provision. The surcharge will be reviewed at the yearly pilotage fee review and pending the supplier removing the surcharge in the event of fuel prices reducing significantly.

Therefore, the following surcharges, for the respective Pilot Boarding Stations, will be applied to pilotage acts from 1 November 2022:

• Nab Stations: £60
• St Helens Station: £30
• North Sturbridge Station: £30

My apologies for being the bearer of unwelcome news, but I wish you and your organisations well during these tough times.

Kind Regards,
Ben McInnes
Harbour Master