Major Atlantic gateway port contracts for first ORC-class pilot boat
June 12, 2026By Seawork Press FP
Goodchild Marine Services
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Goodchild Marine Services Limited and the Port of Gijón (El Musel) have signed a landmark first contract for the construction of a new ORC 121 pilot boat, strengthening the port’s capability to deliver safe, efficient pilotage operations along one of Spain’s most exposed Atlantic coastlines.
The Port of Gijón (El Musel) is a major Atlantic gateway in northern Spain, handling over 20 million tonnes of cargo each year. Its deep-water facilities support key industrial and maritime sectors across Asturias.
The new vessel will join the port’s pilotage fleet in 2027 and will be built at Goodchild Marine Services Limited in Great Yarmouth. The ORC 121 known for its soft-riding beak-bow hull, exceptional fuel efficiency, and proven performance in heavy weather will support the port’s 24/7 operations handling bulk carriers’ tankers, and cruise vessels navigating the Bay of Biscay.
The contract marks the first ORC-class pilot boat to be delivered to a Spanish port, further expanding Goodchild Marine’s footprint across Europe’s major pilotage authorities.
Stephen Pierce, General Manager at Goodchild Marine, said: “We are proud to partner with the Port of Gijón on this significant project. The ORC 121 is designed for ports that demand absolute reliability in challenging sea states, and we look forward to delivering a vessel that will enhance safety, efficiency, and operational resilience for years to come.”
Ignacio García Suárez, Chief Pilot and President of the Gijón Pilots Association said, “Our pilotage service operates in some of the most demanding conditions on the Atlantic coast. Choosing the ORC 121 reflects our commitment to investing in the best technology available to protect our pilots, support our maritime community and ensure the smooth flow of traffic through El Musel.
“Goodchild Marine’s reputation for quality and innovation made this an easy decision…We received a proposal that was perfectly tailored to our needs, and intensive work was carried out to provide the solutions required for our new vessel. Response times have always been very satisfactory, and the treatment and professionalism shown by the Goodchild Marine staff have been second to none.”
Construction of the vessel will begin later this year, with delivery scheduled for mid-2027.
