24/7 Live Webcam - Kiel Canal at Kiel Lock in Germany | Nord-Ostsee-Kanal Schleuse Kiel

In April, 25 percent fewer ships on the German Kiel Canal (NOK) - and things could get even worse. It seems that the exemplary situation at the NOK certainly affects many other channels in the world in a similar way.

According to various reports, the motor vessel "Else" damaged the gate of the Kiel-Holtenau lock at 5:00 a.m. on 29 August when it entered the closed gate without a pilot.

The vessel "ELSE" didn't stopped at the pilot station and tried to enter the closed lock without a pilot.
Following the crash on 29.08.2020, the official investigations into the accident are now beginning on site.

Itajai, Brazil. Photo and video

The three main french pilotage stations in the Channel - North Sea have changed their recruitment conditions for taking a pilotage examination.

The Pacific Pilotage Authority says: "There is a common misunderstanding amongst vessel operators that vessels built prior to 2012 are exempt from some of the requirements for pilot transfer arrangements. This is incorrect...".

The Professional Association of Maritime and Inland Pilots (Beroepsvereniging van Loodsen – BvL) announced on Thursday that its strike over Belgium’s pension reform will continue throughout the weekend.

Helicopter services company NHV Group has won a contract extension with the Dutch Maritime Pilot’s Association (Nederlandse loodsencorporatie) to support maritime pilotage services in the Netherlands.

Article and pictures by Captain W J M Hargreaves, Retired Southampton Pilot

The TRENZ SIRIUS is now available at a reduced price for a limited time. Until December 31st, 2024, the device can be purchased for €1,300.