As explained, a large number of reports related to the use of pilot ladders which are too long relative to the vessel’s draughts. As a result, the excessively long ladders require shortening up before being deployed for boarding pilots. In these cases, ship crew shortens the pilot ladders, using D-shackles to choke the side ropes at the required height along the ladder’s length. In this method, the D-shackle is first secured to a hard point on the deck, such as a pad eye, and the ladder rope threaded through the shackle. Shortening ladders using the D-shackle method causes the weight of the ladder to be taken up by the D-shackle impacting directly against the mechanical securing clamps (widgets) which secure the ladders treads in place, Tokyo MoU explains.
As explained, a large number of reports related to the use of pilot ladders which are too long relative to the vessel’s draughts. As a result, the excessively long ladders require shortening up before being deployed for boarding pilots. In these cases, ship crew shortens the pilot ladders, using D-shackles to choke the side ropes at the required height along the ladder’s length. In this method, the D-shackle is first secured to a hard point on the deck, such as a pad eye, and the ladder rope threaded through the shackle. Shortening ladders using the D-shackle method causes the weight of the ladder to be taken up by the D-shackle impacting directly against the mechanical securing clamps (widgets) which secure the ladders treads in place, Tokyo MoU explains.
Article Pilot Transfer Arrangements
by Captain Kevin Vallance MNI - published on 2 October 2019
Article A contempt for pilot safety and total disregard for the contents of the SOLAS Convention.
by Captain Kevin Vallance MNI - published on 4 October 2019
Article Origins of the IMPA pilot mark
by Kevin Vallance deep sea pilot and author - published on 24 October 2019
There are many things in both our everyday and professional lives which we take for granted and never question the origins of, an example of this might be the IMPA recommended ‘pilot mark or pilot line’, which is sometimes seen on the side of vessels indicating where a vessels freeboard exceeds 9 metres.
Video Pilot Boarding Ship in Extreme Weather condition
published on 2 August 2021
Video GOLDENGATE PARK, EmbarkingManeuver, PilotVessel SEA PILOT
published on 3 November 2026
Editors Note: Was everything OK with this manoeuvre? Marine-Pilots.com simply shows the reality of pilotage work on the ground and how this video was posted on YouTube. #OilChemicalTankerShip "GOLDENGATE PARK"/ #RioDeLaPlataPilots #Prácticos #PrácticosArgentinos #EmbarkingManeuver/ On board #PilotVessel "SEA PILOT"/ #JP #Recalada #BoardingPoint #RioDeLaPlata #Argentina - 26th. October 2026 - 11:24 hs. (Local Time).- This video (original sound) was filmed on board Pilot Vessel "SEA PILOT"...
Article Available now! The new revised 4th edition of 'TUG USE IN PORT' by Captain Henk Hensen
published on 18 August 2021
Video Marine Pilot Boat | Kingston Harbour Jamaica | December 2025
published on 27 August 2026
Marine pilot boats transfers marine pilots between port facilities and large commercial ships requiring compulsory navigation assistance. The Port Authority of Jamaica manages and regulates pilotage operations across the island's harbours. Essential for ensuring safe maneuvering and docking in coastal waters and busy shipping lanes. 00:00-Marine Pilot Boat in Kingston Harbour 01:59-Marine Pilot Boat in Kingston Harbour 04:26-Outro https://www.facebook.com/people/Naftal-Shipspotting/...