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.
Article Brazil Pilots issue Common Errors in PTA’s notice
published on 26 November 2021
Video Pilot boarding Auto Carrier Halifax Harbour
published on 12 October 2020
Pilot boarding the Auto Carrier Mediterranean Highway inbound to Halifax Harbour.
Editors note:
"The pilot's greatest enemy is often the pilot himself: Please do not carry a backpack together with your life jacket! The backpack can massively hinder the deployment and the effect of the lifejacket!"
#pilotboarding #pilotboat #pilotboats #halifax #marinepilot #maritimepilot #nautical #boat #boats #sailors #novascotia #ocean #canada #ship #ships #halifaxharbour #pilots
Video MV LYRIKA (Lithuania) and Harbour Pilot Cutter leaving Port of King's Lynn
published on 14 May 2021
Article Fremantle Pilots and Fremantle Ports: Working Together to Improve Pilot Transfer Safety
by Fremantle Pilots - published on 6 June 2025
Video Pilot Boat STEINBURG at Brunsbuttel, Kiel Canal Passage
published on 17 January 2022
Video IZ 1500 AL Pilot Boat : "Good Design Award Winner" Boat
published on 2 July 2025
IZ 1500 AL PILOT BOAT, is now ready to conquer the seas! 🚤 Winner of the Design Turkey 2021 Good Design Award, the IZ 1500 AL Pilot is a reconfigured pilot boat with a rugged aluminum hull, robust fenders, and a Hadrian safety rail system. Compatible with various propulsion systems like water jets, Volvo Penta IPS, and conventional shafts, it ensures safety and comfort in demanding operations. 🌐izmirshipyard.com Passionate about the sea, innovation, and quality craftsmanship. 🌊...
Video Timelapse | Ship picks up anchor and proceeds to berth - Singapore straits
published on 18 March 2022
Timelapse of my ship's transit from AEPA Anchorage in eastern Singapore harbour to Universal Terminal Singapore, in the western part of the harbor. The pilot took us out into the traffic lane to avoid inshore traffic. #merchantnavy #deckofficer #tankership #maritime Do enjoy and subscribe for more. Instagram: @officervikrant Facebook: fb.com/officervikrant Hi, this is Vikrant. I am a Trainee navigating officer in the merchant navy, soon to be a 3rd officer. Follow me on instagram and...