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.
Article PTR Holland offers free pilot ladder load test
published on 1 December 2021
Video Port of Tyne Pilotage: Pilot Boat Collingwood
published on 24 March 2025
navigate the Port of Tyne? Join me aboard the pilot boat Collingwood as we put pilots on and off ships! Experience the skill, precision, and teamwork it takes to guide vessels safely through one of the UK's busiest ports. From close-up action on the water to behind-the-scenes insights, this is a must-watch for anyone fascinated by maritime operations.
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Opinion "A Pilot Ladder has its Price!" - Statement of Joris J. Stuip (PTR Holland)
by PTR Holland® B.V. - published on 10 February 2020
Video PilotVessel "SEA MASTER"/ BulkCarrierShip "S SAMBA"/ Recalada KM239_1 RioDeLaPlata / 24.09.2024
published on 30 September 2024
#PilotVessel "SEA MASTER"/ On board #BulkCarrierShip "S SAMBA" #KM239_1 #Recalada #PuntaIndioChannel #RioDeLaPlata #Argentina/ 24th. September 2024 - 09:07 Local Time.- On this video (with original sound), you can watch the Pilot Vessel "SEA MASTER", arrived at #KM239_1 #Recalada #boardingpoint #PuntaIndioChannel to disembark the Rio de la Plata Pilots. This video was filmed on board the following Vessel: Bulk Carrier Ship "S SAMBA" - Call Sign: V7IU6 - IMO Number: 9712486 - Flag: MARSHALL...