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we require the deckhand to test the securing and integrity of the pilot ladder before the pilot commenced his disembarkation - in this case the vessel had limited descent as using the gunport door as is accepted practice for pax vessels
Video Kittiwake Mersey Pilot
published on 22 December 2021
Video Not an easy pilot boarding in rough conditions: Milford Haven - 15-01-15
published on 10 March 2021
Article The Story of the #dangerousladders group on Facebook
by Arie Palmers - published on 21 January 2021
Video When a pilot boarding is aborted
published on 27 January 2022
Wind was blowing strong from the NE and the waves were becoming bigger and bigger by the time we reach a new client.
Crew didn't consider the rolling effect about to happen while changing heading in order to give lee when they prepared pilot ladder, so the requested 1.5m above the water was not that good.
I decided to abort and to give the vessel the chance to shorten it. In the next attempt they did it right and I was able to board safe
Article China wants to change pilot ladder regulations
published on 3 May 2022
Video Pilot leaves the Regent Seven Seas Navigator at Halifax
published on 12 August 2020
Video Pilot Boat
published on 16 June 2025
Opinion New guidance for PBAs with trapdoors. Released 4.11.2020 by NZMPA
by New Zealand Maritime Pilot's Association - published on 6 November 2020
New guidance for PBAs with trapdoors. Released 4.11.2020 at NZMPA Conference in Dunedin, NZ. Distinct difference to suggestions in many other countries, is that we challenge operators who have the ladder suspended from the accommodation ladder (gangway) and not secured to the ship. SOLAS states that pilot ladder shall be secured to the ship, and securing strongpoints, shackles and ropes shall be as strong as the sideropes.