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.
Video The Ampelmann L-type gangway system
published on 2 January 2020
The L-type is the compact and fully-electric solution for transferring crews from small, non-DP vessels onto fixed or floating structures. With its continuous flow of personnel, it can transfer 50 people in five minutes. More from Ampelmann Operations: Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/Ampelman... Website: https://www.ampelmann.nl/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmpelmannOpe... LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ampe...
Video Pilot change
published on 25 October 2020
Video Pilot Transfers & Dolphins Stealing the Show! Port of Tyne Action
published on 30 May 2025
Join me for a busy day on the pilot boat at the Port of Tyne as we guide ships in and out of the river – with a surprise visit from a pod of dolphins putting on an incredible show! From fast-paced pilot transfers to unexpected wildlife moments, this one’s got it all. 📍 Filmed on the River Tyne 🚢 Real-life pilot boat action 🐬 Dolphins playing Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more behind-the-scenes footage from life at sea! #jfktwo #portoftyne #portoftyne #shipspotting...
Video Maiden voyage of HMM Algeciras #1-Qingdao
published on 5 June 2020
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published on 15 October 2024
Video Maritime Education #5: Pilotage Operations on General Cargo ship
published on 17 February 2023
Maritime Education #5: Pilotage operations in General Cargo ship
An insight to points of attention during Embarkation and disembarkation of Pilots.
This video will be dedicated to my future Maritime students who will be joining General Cargo ships, this is what we normally do here, and this is for your virtual guide.
Thank you subscribers and keep growing so as my contents as well❤️