Article

Port of London Authority: New Pilot Trainee


published on 13 August 2025 686 -

Picture and text: Courtesy Port of London Authority (PLA) - Thank you

We’re thrilled to welcome Sathar Sulaiman and James Kitney to the PLA as they join us as Trainee Marine Pilots. Both bring extensive seafaring experience, strong leadership skills, and a shared passion for navigation and ship handling.

The River Thames is one of the most complex and challenging pilotage environments in the world, and we’re confident they will thrive in their new roles. We wish them every success as they begin this exciting new chapter - good luck with your training, and welcome to the team!

Sathar Sulaiman
Originally from India, Sathar began his maritime career as a Deck Cadet, gaining a strong operational foundation on bulk carriers and container vessels. He went on to serve as an Officer of the Watch (OOW) on crude oil, product, and Type 1 & 2 chemical tankers, later progressing to the role of Chief Officer.

He holds a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Nautical Science and completed his professional maritime training at City of Glasgow College, achieving both his Mates and Master’s certification, culminating in a Master’s Certificate of Competency.

Sathar’s interest in pilotage developed during his years at sea, where he found pilotage operations to be the most fascinating and challenging part of any voyage, particularly in complex or busy waterways. His decision to join the PLA was inspired by the opportunity to work on the River Thames, one of the world’s most historic and demanding tidal rivers.

He is excited to transition from life at sea to a shore-based role as a Marine Pilot, where he can continue applying his maritime experience while learning from the PLA’s highly skilled team of pilots.

Outside of work, Sathar enjoys acting, singing, playing competitive cricket during the English season, and travelling to places with rich maritime heritage or natural beauty. He also loves long drives and exploring new destinations.

James Kitney
Originally from Dover, James began his career as a Deck Cadet with P&O in 2000. Over the years, he has gained extensive experience working on ro-pax ferries, tugs, and cruise ships, spending the past 13 years in RoRo freight, where he achieved the rank of Master in 2014.

For James, becoming a Marine Pilot was the natural next step after his time as Master, building on over 15 years of experience handling vessels. He is looking forward to the variety and challenges of piloting different ship types on a daily basis and contributing his expertise to the PLA.

Outside of his professional life, James is a 2nd dan in DNBK Iaido, a form of Japanese swordsmanship recognised by the Dai Nippon Butoku Kai (Japan’s oldest martial arts organisation). He also enjoys archery, playing the drums, and taking part in local charity work.
What's your opinion on this?
Login or register to write comments and join the discussion!
Read more...

Video Look at Life - Down London River (Thames) - 1959

published on 18 March 2021

This documentary made in 1959 in the popular Look at Life series is from Volume 5 - Cultural History and takes a journey along the River Thames passing several famous buildings and monuments such as - County Hall, Royal Festival Hall, Shell Mex House which has the biggest clock face in London. Cleopatra's Needle, St Paul's Cathedral, Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Port of London Authority, Prospect of London Pub, Port of London Docks.

0

Video The work of a Pilot on the tidal Thames, UK - 2010

published on 18 March 2021

10 years back in time: Port of London Authority Pilot Jon Stafford talks about his work and the challenges of guiding large ships safely into and out of the Port of London.

2

Video 2006 Port of London Pilot Capt. Tom Miller - Hebridean Princess

published on 22 November 2023

In 2006 I was invited to join Port of London Pilot Capt. Tom Miller on one of his last few voyages before his retirement. A pilot cutter ferried us from the Gravesend Port office to the Port of London Terminal where the Hebridean Spirit waited for us to board. Once aboard, the ship's captain manoeuvred the vessel off its moorings and into the channel. After handing the vessel over to Capt. Miller, the Captain joined the ship's company for dinner, and the first offer and a helmsman remained...

0

Opinion Piloting and the unstoppable wheel of technology.

by Captain Ricardo Caballero "Themaritimepilot" - published on 25 June 2020

Surely, the new invention also reduced the amount of time and hands (manpower) previously required to perform such a task. Now those idling "extra hands" could dedicate the "extra time" that was made available, to take care of other issues important for the community.

0

Video Maritime Pilot - Saudi Maritime congress - Episode 8

published on 24 September 2024

Saudi Maritime Congress 2024 is a premier event that brings together #global maritime leaders, Industry professionals, and government representatives to discuss the latest developments in the #marine and logistics sectors. Held in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

1

Video Ghana's first female Marine Pilot

published on 19 October 2022

TV3'S JOSEPHINE FREMPONG tells the story of ghana first female marine pilot flying high the flag of Ghana.
the FIRST FEMALE PILOT to brave all odds and beat the men to it.

0

Video Crossing The Suez Canal

published on 15 March 2022

Canal Day! Follow a Bulk Carrier as it crosses the Suez Canal. This video is not a time-lapse, well explore a typical day in the Suez Canal. From pilot turn overs and helmamns to the line boat gift shop well try and cover it all.

0

Article Brazil Pilots issue Common Errors in PTA’s notice

published on 26 November 2021

Conapra / Praticagem do Brasil have issued a notice “Common Errors in the pilot boarding arrangement “. In this notice, reference is made to international regulations ( Solas V Reg 23, IMO 1045 and ISO 799 ) as well as national regulations.

0

Video New Pilot Boat for Finnpilot Pilotage: "Bon Voyage PILOT L247"

published on 8 October 2020

Saying goodbye to our new built vessels are never easy. This pilot boat is the 16th delivered to Finnpilot Pilotage by Kewatec AluBoat.

0

Video Pilot launch Nepean seen off Point Lonsdale, Victoria, Australia.

published on 21 November 2024

A quick look Pilot launch Nepean running through the rip seen off Point Lonsdale, Victoria, Australia.
Ship spotting at Point Lonsdale and other water activities by Wally on Water.

0