Opinion Pilot transfer arrangements - Sharing knowledge matters – but problems go beyond non-compliance to SOLAS itself
by Kevin Vallance deep sea pilot and author - published on 23 September 2020
Like many seafarers I have long been a keen follower of The Nautical Institute’s MARS programme, and along with many other members I listened to the recent webinar on that topic. One theme which was repeated more than once was that it is better to learn from someone else’s misfortune rather than have it happen to you. Having personally been involved in two near misses resulting from unsafe pilot transfer arrangements in a relatively short space of time, I asked how experiences and knowledge specifically about pilot ladder safety could best be promulgated to avoid repeating common accidents or near misses.
Video Smooth pilot boarding
published on 7 October 2021
Video Pilot boarding with pilot boat "Spindletop"
published on 10 May 2021
Video Opinion by Nasir Khan: Pilot transfer by tug boat is unsafe
by Nasir Khan - published on 11 May 2022
Pilot transferring is unsafe and dangerous by Harbor Tug Boat from or to the ship. I analyzed and observed at many ports, Pilots using Harbor Tug Boat for transferring. Where Tug boats decks are not specially designed for the Pilot transferring. This is difficult for the Pilot during Embarkation and specially Disembarkation. Video courtesy Nasir Khan. Find Capt. Pilot Nasir Khan on Marine-Pilots.com: https://www.marine-pilots.com/members/112390
Article Update: Guidance to ships for safe Rigging of Pilot Ladders (1st May)
by AIMPA - All India Marine Pilots' Association - published on 1 May 2021
Video IRAGO 11 PILOT BOAT
published on 13 March 2023
IMO: - Name: IRAGO 11 PILOT BOAT Vessel Type - Generic: Pilot Vessel Vessel Type - Detailed: Pilot Vessel Navigational Status: Active MMSI: 431003419 Call Sign: - Flag: Japan [JP] Gross Tonnage: - Summer DWT: - Length Overall x Breadth Extreme: 18 x 4 m Year Built: - Home Port: - https://www.marinetraffic.com/en/ais/details/ships/shipid:661579/mmsi:431003419/imo:0/vessel:IRAGO_11_PILOT_BOAT
Video 16m Pilot Boat Stainsby - Launching
published on 8 October 2020
Video How Tugboats Keep Ports Running Smoothly
published on 13 January 2025
"The Hidden Heroes: How Tugboats Keep Ports Running Smoothly"Did you know that tugboats are the unsung heroes of our ports? They work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the safe and efficient movement of giant ships and cargo vessels. From navigating treacherous waters to providing emergency assistance, tugboats play a vital role in keeping our global supply chain running smoothly. In this video, we're shining the spotlight on these mighty machines and the brave men and women who...