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 Cebu Harbor Pilot Boarding 2GO Maligaya
published on 4 July 2022
Video Offshore Pilot station out of San Francisco
published on 3 May 2023
Video The Netherlands: Picking up the pilot of the "Procyon"
published on 22 January 2024
Article Safe and modern Ideas for Pilot Tranfer Arrangement
by AIMPA - All India Marine Pilots' Association - published on 29 April 2021
Video Pilot boat on the Mersey
published on 12 March 2024
Video Pilot "rides" aboard on ladder elevator. Footage from 1966
published on 22 December 2021
Video Thrilling Sunrise Mission at the Port of Tyne
published on 11 April 2025
An unforgettable sunrise at sea as the pilot boat Hadrian delivers a pilot to the Grampian Tweed on approach to the Port of Tyne! With the sky blazing in incredible colours, we head out at first light to meet the Grampian Tweed offshore. Watch as the Hadrian carefully manoeuvres alongside to safely transfer the pilot, all against the backdrop of a stunning North Sea sunrise. This is a true behind-the-scenes look at life on the water — ship handling, teamwork, and breathtaking views from the...