Article

Podcast: Maritime Pilot Safety and reducing the risk in pilot transfer operations

published on 4 July 2023 - 323 -

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“The problem with statistics is that it’s a bummer when it’s you!”

― Arie Palmers, Maritime Pilot

This is an in-depth discussion of the risks involved in maritime pilot transfers; an interesting job but with a risky commute to work.

Sadly there have been 7 deaths associated with maritime pilot transfer operations already in the first 6 months of 2023.

What are the current international regulations for ships and what are the barriers to reducing the risk? How can individuals, the industry, ports and ship builders make changes to save lives in the future?

Guests:

Andrew Moll, Chief Inspector at Marine Accident Investigation Branch

Arie Palmers, Senior Maritime Pilot working in the Netherlands

Adam Parnell, Director at CHIRP Maritime Charitable Trust

Listen here

What's your opinion on this?

Article Combinations Ladders: "1,000 combinations around" (by Arie Palmers)

by Arie Palmers, Netherlands - published on 13 July 2020

Before you, you see my third article on pilot boarding arrangements. After my two previous articles
(‘1000 ways to secure a pilot ladder’ and ‘1000 ladders around’, I have received a lot of feedback and
also questions to get deeper into the matter of combinations and embarkation platforms.

Article 1,000 ways to secure a Pilot Ladder

by Arie Palmers, Netherlands - published on 10 January 2020

From that moment on I have been keeping a tally of the non compliant boarding arrangements I see in front of me on a daily base, and off course I participate in the annual safety campaign, conducted by IMPA each october.

Article China wants to change pilot ladder regulations

published on 3 May 2022

China has already submitted proposals to the IMO regarding changes to SOLAS, Chapter 23, and IMO A.1045(27) in early 2021.

Article SevenCs Shakes Up Digital Navigation for Pilots and Professional Mariners

by Marine-Pilots.com - published on 4 June 2020

SevenCs, part of the ChartWorld Group, is pleased to announce the release of our ground-breaking ORCA™ Pilot X software. Originally designed as a primary navigation aid for Pilots, ORCA Pilot X is the industry’s leading tool for professional navigators. In an industry first, ORCA Pilot X is being offered as a free download on the Apple AppStore for iOS tablets.

Video Pilot boarding in bad weather (Japan)

published on 6 April 2021

Original title: "Watch how this Japanese pilot managed to get off the ship in bad weather condition"

Video Goodchild Marine - Man Overboard Recovery Platform

published on 15 June 2023

Goodchild Marine have designed an MOB recovery platform system that can be fitted to existing vessels or incorporated into new constructions.

Video Puerto Plata pilot

published on 20 April 2026

Video Maritime pilot boarding The Cat Ferry as it approaches Bar Harbor

published on 21 June 2022

Maritime pilots board ships when waters are crowded or treacherous or when a passage is narrow to guide the captain and ship safely through the waters. The Cat operates between Bar Harbor, Maine, and Yarmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada.

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...

Article Pilot transfer arrangements by AMSA

by Marine-Pilots.com - published on 18 November 2019

This notice reminds shipowners, operators, masters, crews, recognised organisations, marine pilots and pilotage providers of the obligation to provide safe pilot transfer arrangements.