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.
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.
Video Pilot Boat Operations at Port of Tyne
published on 6 June 2025
Witness the Historic D/S Hestmanden at the Port of Tyne Experience the majestic arrival and departure of the D/S Hestmanden, Norway's cherished steamship, as she graces the Port of Tyne. This video captures the seamless pilotage operations, showcasing the collaboration between the ship and local maritime pilots. About D/S Hestmanden: Built: 1911 by Laxevaags Maskin & Jernskibsbyggeri in Bergen, Norway Length: 59.47 meters | Beam: 9.17 meters Tonnage: 755 gross tons | DWT: 965 tons...
Video Ship berthing in Durban, South Africa. Pilot comes via Helicopter.
published on 27 April 2020
This is a video about a ship berthing in Durban, a beautiful city in South Africa. I made a musical timelapse and wanted to share this with you.
Hope you enjoy the video and please do leave feedback, and also like, share & subscribe.
The music used in the video is - 'Dreams Pt. II by Lost Sky'
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L7kF4...
Video Pilots boarding CMA CGM LEO inbound to Halifax, Nova Scotia Canada
published on 4 November 2021
Video Ship's Pilot by Helicopter / outside Rotterdam
published on 12 June 2024
Video Humber Pilotage Area - Pilot Disembarkation
published on 13 January 2022
Video “Harbor Pilot” 1960s Los Angeles Harbor Freighters & Ships Education Film
published on 25 June 2020
Harbor Pilot is a short film from 1967 that gives viewers a brief look at what a harbor pilot is and does. The film opens with footage of a sailboat sailing at sea, followed by a shot of a rocky coastline (01:10) and then an aerial view of a modern harbor — the Port of Los Angeles. A large freight ship, SS Gemstone, is out at sea. A harbor pilot stands on land at the Port of Los Angeles, looking out over the harbor. He walks into the pilot station at the entrance to the harbor to check the...