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 transfer by helicopter
published on 4 July 2019
Video Disembarkation of Pilots on Oulo Finland - 2007
published on 28 May 2020
Video Pilots gets off Huron Belle Pilot boat and climbs aboard CSL Assiniboine - 08.04.19
published on 25 February 2020
"This is a Lakes Pilot hopping off the Huron Belle Pilot boat after we've pulled alongside the CSL Assiniboine on the Detroit River just above the Ambassador Bridge in Detroit, MI
He walks along the side of the Pilot boat, holding onto the railing and then after the gangway from the ship is lowered into position, he steps up and pulls himself up to then begin walking up the gangway to the deck where he is greeted by the crew.
We then see one of the crew from the Pilot boat tieing up the...
Video Pilot Transfers & Dolphins Stealing the Show! Port of Tyne Action
published on 30 May 2025
Join me for a busy day on the pilot boat at the Port of Tyne as we guide ships in and out of the river – with a surprise visit from a pod of dolphins putting on an incredible show! From fast-paced pilot transfers to unexpected wildlife moments, this one’s got it all. 📍 Filmed on the River Tyne 🚢 Real-life pilot boat action 🐬 Dolphins playing Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more behind-the-scenes footage from life at sea! #jfktwo #portoftyne #portoftyne #shipspotting...
Video Pilot boarding in the ice
published on 4 July 2019
Article LYMAN-MORSE ANNOUNCES BALTIC WORKBOATS PARTNERSHIP
by Baltic Workboats AS - published on 15 December 2019
Since 1978 Lyman-Morse has built more than 110 vessels, ranging from aluminum workboats to high-end composite racing yachts and luxury power yachts. “Their experience with so many different building materials opens up a world of new possibilities for our vessels,” says Baltic Workboats’ CEO Margus Vanaselja.