Benin – Port Autonome de Cotonou: AVLÉKÉTÉ, a New Pilot Boat to Strengthen Vessel Assistance
The Port Autonome de Cotonou has taken another step toward strengthening its nautical capabilities with the official christening of its new pilot boat, named AVLÉKÉTÉ, on Monday, July 27, 2026. Now sailing under the Beninese flag, this new pilot boat will enhance the operational resources dedicated to assisting vessels.
The christening ceremony was held at the port platform’s tugboat station, in the presence of several officials from the Port Autonome de Cotonou and the maritime sector. Among those attending were Damien HOUSSIN, Director of Port Operations and Security; Mrs. Hakilath IDRISSOU, wife of BIO YERIMA, Director of Legal Affairs and Litigation; Charles-Bennett FAYOMI, Port Commander; and Mr. Ahodomon Elie-Marcel, Technical Adviser to the Director General. The Director of Port, Maritime and River-Lagoon Affairs at the Ministry of Living Environment and Transport, responsible for Sustainable Development, also attended the ceremony.
A Pilot Boat Powered by Two Hamilton Waterjets
With a length of 19.01 metres, a beam of 4.51 metres and a draught of 2.11 metres, AVLÉKÉTÉ is a twin-waterjet pilot boat designed to efficiently transport maritime pilots to vessels.
Its technical configuration enables it to manoeuvre near large vessels with greater precision and responsiveness. Unlike boats equipped with conventional propellers, the pilot boat is powered by two Hamilton waterjets, a technology suited to the demands of port nautical operations.
A Power Output of 2 x 1,030 kW
Fast and powerful, AVLÉKÉTÉ develops a power output of 2 x 1,030 kW. BV Zone 3 certified, it is authorised to operate up to 20 nautical miles from the coast.
Strengthening the Port of Cotonou’s Nautical and Operational Capabilities
The arrival of AVLÉKÉTÉ is part of an ongoing effort to strengthen the nautical and operational capabilities of the Port of Cotonou. Alongside the two tugboats, whose permanent availability helps ensure the continuity of port operations, the new pilot boat provides additional equipment to make vessel assistance more reliable.
Through this investment, the Port of Cotonou is strengthening its nautical capabilities, with the aim of providing increasingly safe, efficient port services that meet the demands of maritime traffic.
