It has been shown that a majority (51%) of pilot ladders is secured by means of D-shackles, when secured at intermediate length. Previous research (Evans, 2020) has proven that this method has only about 50% of the strength of the pilot ladder when secured at full length (“double ended ladder”), or by means of the “endless-sling” method.

by "Mallu Sailor" on YouTube
Do you know how difficult to board a ship through pilot ladder.

Pilots are expert ship handlers who possess detailed knowledge of local waterways. They are transported by high speed "Pilot Boat" or helicopter from shore to an inbound ship and from an outbound ship back ashore. Most ports have compulsory pilotage.

Self-Righting Test Fast Pilot Launch for Dutch Pilots. Test executed by Holland Diesel Maassluis and Scheepswerf Made for Nederlands Loodswezen. Location: Port of Maassluis

Waterjets are the safest choice for Pilot Boat applications. Our waterjets are engineered with safety in mind, precise steering control and efficient manoeuvrability result in effective and quick reaction to a man-overboard situation, and with no exposed propeller, waterjets provide ultimate safety around people in the water.

Pilot ladder broke when pilot was boarding general cargo ship CREST CRANE at night Nov 5 at Keelung Port, Taiwan, to take the ship out.

Pilot Boarding on PCC Vessel