Launch Services
Here to assist you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Our launch services are a core element of our offshore support capability, enabling vessels to receive personnel, pilots, and supplies efficiently without the need for port entry. All launch movements are planned and coordinated by BSAS’s experienced operations team to ensure safe, reliable, and timely transfers.
Boarding Locations & Offshore Capability
Boarding and landing positions are typically located 2–4 miles offshore, depending on a vessel’s draft and operational requirements. These short offshore distances provide several key advantages:
- Reduced launch transit times
- Lower exposure during transfers
- Improved reliability during adverse or changeable weather
The sheltered geography of Torbay and surrounding waters further enhances safety and operational consistency, making Brixham a dependable location for offshore launch operations throughout the year.
Scope of Launch Services
BSAS coordinates launch operations to support:
- Crew changes and personnel transfers, including officers, crew, and riding personnel
- Deep Sea and harbour pilot embarkation and disembarkation, including pre-carried and over-carried pilots
- Boarding of provisions, stores, charts, and mail
- Transfers to vessels underway or at anchor, depending on operational needs
Launch transfers are carefully scheduled to align with vessel movements, weather conditions, and operational priorities.
Lyme Bay Deep-Water Operations
In addition to operations off Brixham and within Torbay, the launch is capable of operating out to the Lyme Bay deep-water anchorage, supporting larger and deeper-draft vessels.
This extended operating range allows BSAS to assist vessels that are unable or unsuitable to operate closer inshore, providing continued access to launch-based services without compromising safety or efficiency.
Operational Planning & Coordination
All launch services are coordinated by BSAS’s 24/7 operations team, who manage:
- Timing and scheduling of transfers
- Communication with vessel masters and operators
- Weather and sea state monitoring
- Coordination with pilotage, crew changes, and provisioning
By integrating launch services with our wider agency, pilotage, and logistics support, BSAS ensures clear communication and smooth execution across all aspects of an operation.
Safety & Reliability
Safety is central to all launch operations arranged by BSAS. Transfers are planned with careful consideration of prevailing conditions, vessel characteristics, and personnel requirements, ensuring operations are conducted responsibly and efficiently.
Integrated Offshore Support
Launch services are frequently combined with:
- Crew changes and personnel transfers
- Pilot embarkation or landing
- Provisioning and stores delivery
- Diving or inspection operations
This integrated approach reduces operational complexity and minimises disruption for vessel operators.
For further information or to discuss launch requirements for your vessel, please contact Brixham Ship Agency Services. Our operations team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and ready to assist.
Enquire today
To discuss your requirements or arrange our services, please contact us directly. Our operations team is available 24/7 to assist you with your needs.