Video

Refusing to board due to a pilot ladder not rigged correctly


published on 20 June 2025 -  2617 -

Found on YouTube. Created by "Marine Pilot's POV". Originally published on 2025-06-18.
This lady came into port in an excellent day, however when I inspected the pilot ladder prior to board I saw that it was rigged using D-Shackles fastened between the side ropes, transferring all the weight and load of the ladder to the clamps and chokes. Truly an unsuitable method of securing the ladder. Retrieval line was also not above the first spreader

After pulling out the pilot boat, the ship was contacted by VHF and the captain was asked to instruct the crew in the usage of ropes and rolling hitch knots: The only proper method.

5 minutes later the problem was solved and the boarding operation was carried out safely, however the near-miss was reported.

For more information about this issue visit https://www.pilotladdersafety.com/securing-the-pilot-ladder/
What's your opinion on this?
Login or register to write comments and join the discussion!
Read more...

Video Life of a Marine Pilot: Work, Salary & Privileges ft. Capt. Shailendra Nautiyal (2025)

published on 5 May 2025

👉Ship To Shore Guidance Series For Deck Officer: https://courses.merchantnavydecoded.com/learn/Ship-to-Shore-Guidance-Series-for-Deck-Officer 👉Ship To Shore Guidance Series For Marine Engineer: https://courses.merchantnavydecoded.com/learn/Ship-to-Shore-Guidance-Series-for-Marine-Engineer 👉Ship Chartering And Ship Brokering Guidance Series: https://courses.merchantnavydecoded.com/learn/Ship-Chartering-and-Ship-Brokering 👉Check your eligibility for MEO Exam and Mates Exam: https://www....

0

Video Kittiwake Mersey Pilot

published on 22 December 2021

KITTIWAKE ( MMSI 232008570) is a Pilot and currently sailing under the flag of United Kingdom (UK) Here she is speeding down the River this morning.

0

Video Polaris Pilot Boat Antwerp Belgium

published on 15 March 2022

Vessel name: Polaris ; Year built: 2012 ; Flag: Netherlands ; Homeport: Rotterdam Length: 81.2m X 13.3m ; GRT: 2501 ; Callsign: PBZN ; MMSI:245142000 ; IMO: 9496915 Type: Special Vessel / Pilot Ship A "Pilot Ship / Pilot Vessel" is a "special type" of ship in which it accommodates a certain and limited Marine Pilots (Sea, River, Harbor Pilots), it also carries small boats/crafts that are used to tender services to and from the Pilot ship. In a Pilot Vessel, the Pilots can take their time...

1

Video Awesome boarding video (360° camera), by Finnpilot

published on 18 October 2021

Pilot boat L243

0

Article Pilot Transfer Arrangements

by Captain Kevin Vallance MNI - published on 2 October 2019

Most pilot embarkations and disembarkations around the world, are still carried out using a traditional pilot ladder, consisting of wooden steps supported and secured by side ropes.

1

Video Climbing Pilot Ladder - 360° video in all directions

by River Pilot Kris De Decker - published on 5 October 2022

Editors note: Great video with a brilliant technique: Move your phone while watching and see the different angles of the full 360 degree view. Amazing!
A big thank you to Kris de Decker.

4

Video Pilot Boarding - Accidentology (2001- 2021) - French Maritime Pilots' Association

published on 10 May 2023

The accidentology survey conducted in France between 2001 and 2021 found that pilots face significant risks during transfer phases while embarking or disembarking from ships that they are required to serve. To ensure their safety and improve transfers, pilots develop specific procedures and safety protocols and equip themselves with the necessary gear. These safety measures are presented in the following film that is intended for both novice and experienced pilot boat drivers and pilots,...

1

Video Recommendation: Pilot Boarding Ship in Rough Weather in HD

published on 23 May 2020

A maritime pilot, marine pilot, harbor pilot, bar pilot, or simply pilot, is a sailor who maneuvers ships through dangerous or congested waters, such as harbors or river mouths. They are navigational experts possessing knowledge of the particular waterway such as its depth, currents, and hazards.

0

Article Louisiana pilots launch state diversity initiative

published on 24 January 2022

"Last legislative session, river pilots committed to making African Americans and other minorities aware of the growing number of career opportunities in Louisiana's maritime industry," said river pilot Captain Lee Jackson in a statement.

0

Video The Halifax Explosion Inquiry Blamed One Pilot. Two Courts Disagreed

published on 1 September 2026

A French munitions ship and a Norwegian steamer collided in Halifax harbour in December 1917, and the blast that followed remains the largest human-made explosion before the atomic bomb. Within six days, a formal inquiry opened — and within two months it placed nearly all the blame on one harbour pilot. Wreck Commissioner Arthur Drysdale's inquiry found Mont-Blanc's pilot and captain responsible for the collision that triggered the disaster, and all three men involved, including a naval...

0