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Opinion Five questions for Olli Taipale, Chief Pilot at Finnpilot
published on 2 December 2020
Video British Sea Pilot's 1960: Vintage History Vault Films.
published on 27 July 2026
Step back in time to the height of Britain's maritime influence with this look at the unsung heroes of the shipping industry: the sea pilots. In the 1960s, as global trade patterns shifted and shipping technology began its rapid evolution, British sea pilots remained the vital, trusted guides navigating the world’s most complex waterways. From the treacherous currents of the River Mersey to the bustling ports of the coast, these men held the legal conduct of massive vessels in their hands,...
Opinion Piloting in the Corona Era - Understanding differences in COVID-19 mitigating procedures
by Herman Broers - Rotterdam / Netherlands - published on 20 April 2020
Article #dangerousladders - Using social media to improve pilot transfer safety.
by Kevin Vallance deep sea pilot and author - published on 12 December 2019
It remains a sad fact that accidents and near misses continue to occur during pilot transfers with frightening regularity. Most of these fortunately do not result in injury, and a surprisingly high number of them are not even recognised for what they are.
Surveys into pilot ladder safety consistently reveal that unacceptably high numbers of pilot transfer arrangements are not compliant with the regulations.
Video Leaving Brixham for Another Pilotage - Dolphins Joined the Journey!
published on 12 August 2026
⚓ Leaving Brixham for another pilotage assignment! Shortly after departing Brixham, I was lucky enough to be joined by a pod of dolphins, making the journey even more unforgettable. 🐬 In the distance, you can also see Berry Head, one of the most iconic landmarks overlooking Brixham Harbour, before heading out into open waters. If you enjoy life at sea, pilotage operations, ship handling, and beautiful coastal scenery, don't forget to like, subscribe, and join me for more adventures! 🌊⚓...
Video A Day With Lough Foyle Pilots
published on 25 July 2022
July 21st 2022, a thrilling day for me when I met up with the Foyle Pilots and was given a tour and a trip out on pilot vessel Foyle Leader 2. I was in the company of Coxswain Tommy McDaid and several other pilots, I was taken out past tall ship Grace O'Malley then we collected the pilot from a cement carrier called Cemluna, then back to Greencastle, it was a fantastic experience. Many thanks to Tommy and the crew for making this happen. www.nightskyhunter.com
Video Pilot boat CORUÑA PILOTS 8
published on 16 December 2020
New pilot boat CORUÑA PILOTS 8, build by #SafehavenMarine in Cork, Ireland. The Interceptor 48 is typically powered by twin Volvo D13 500/550hp engines and twin Disc or ZF gearboxes providing the vessel with an operational speed of 24-26kts. The vessel is 15m LOA, with a 4.4m beam and 17,200kg Displacement.
Nueva lancha de Prácticos Coruña, la Prácticos Coruña 8, construída por los astilleros Safehaven Marine en Cork, Irlanda. El tipo de lancha es una Interceptor 48 propulsada por dos...