Pilot Cutter

The pilot cutter developed from the need for a fast boat to take the maritime pilots from the harbour to the incoming large trading vessels and guide them safely into port. Most early pilots were local fisherman who were licensed by the harbour to operate within their jurisdiction. Pilots were generally selfemployed and the quicker they were, the greater their income. As their fishing boats were heavy working boats and filled with fishing equipment, they needed a new type of boat. Early boats were developed from single masted fishing cutter designs and twin masted yawls, and latterly into the specialist pilot cutter. The unique features of the bow and stern have been incorporated into the design of the Essence range, making it one of the fastest yachts in its class.