The difference between Gross Tonnage and Net Tonnage

The ICS Guide to Helicopter/Ship Operations is the industry standard best practice guide for shipping companies, ships’ crew and helicopter operators.

New guidance for PBAs with trapdoors. Released 4.11.2020 at NZMPA Conference in Dunedin, NZ. Distinct difference to suggestions in many other countries, is that we challenge operators who have the ladder suspended from the accommodation ladder (gangway) and not secured to the ship. SOLAS states that pilot ladder shall be secured to the ship, and securing strongpoints, shackles and ropes shall be as strong as the sideropes.

Maritime pilots trace the roots of their profession back to the ancient Greeks and Romans when incoming ship captains employed experienced local fisherman to guide their merchant vessels safely into port. It’s a legacy of skill, strength, and sharp wits, and our Houston Pilots (“Pilots”) have been meeting vessels at Galveston’s bar to carry on these proud traditions for just shy of 100 years.

Training video V on the correct use of the pilot ladder

On the occasion of the Maritime Safety Week (July 4-10), UK MAIB’s inspector Bill Evans refers to the issue of unsafe pilot ladders, a concern that has been regularly voiced by the industry.

The Port of Cork company has ordered a new pilot vessel from boat builders, Safehaven Marine based in Youghal.

On August 28, the world's largest container ship completed its first crossing in the Suez Canal. Due to its huge size and this is the first voyage of the ship, it has received extra attention and special treatment from the Suez Canal Authority (SCA).

This article was originally published on Baird Maritime (link below)
When a pilot is berthing a ship with the aid of tugs, it sometimes happens that the ship lands heavily and suffers minor damage. More commonly in my experience, it also happens that the crew discover a large dent for which they cannot account ...

Pilot boat "Muir Pilot" departing Pirate Harbour

Have you ever wanted to watch a marine pilot in action? Last night, TasPorts was delighted to offer up for auction a pilot boat experience to support Cancer Council Tasmania's 25th Anniversary Gala in Launceston. A second experience will be offered at the Cancer Council Tasmania Gala in Hobart next month. Both events raise funds to support Tasmanians dealing with cancer through advocacy, prevention, support and research. This video was filmed in 2018 (pre-COVID), was broadcast at last...