Video Training of the Elbe pilots - documentary (in german)
published on 6 November 2020
Die Lotsenbrüderschaft Elbe ist ein geschlossener Kreis, der sich nicht gern in die Karten schauen lässt. Wer dort Mitglied werden und bis zu 400 Meter lange Containerpötte in den Hamburger Hafen steuern möchte, muss hohe Anforderungen erfüllen. Bewerber müssen mehrere Jahre lang zur See gefahren sein, um ausreichend Fahrpraxis zu haben. Aber es gibt immer weniger deutsche Seeleute, weil die Reeder billigere Kräfte aus dem Ausland bevorzugen. Dadurch wird es zunehmend schwierig,...
Opinion Pilot transfer arrangements - Sharing knowledge matters – but problems go beyond non-compliance to SOLAS itself
by Kevin Vallance deep sea pilot and author - published on 23 September 2020
Like many seafarers I have long been a keen follower of The Nautical Institute’s MARS programme, and along with many other members I listened to the recent webinar on that topic. One theme which was repeated more than once was that it is better to learn from someone else’s misfortune rather than have it happen to you. Having personally been involved in two near misses resulting from unsafe pilot transfer arrangements in a relatively short space of time, I asked how experiences and knowledge specifically about pilot ladder safety could best be promulgated to avoid repeating common accidents or near misses.
Video Incident on 31 January 2020 : A rope of the pilot ladder breaks. Pilot could still reach the vessel
published on 3 February 2020
Video Port Podcast: Sailing the Seas: A Conversation with Gary Joyce from Saint John Pilot Boats
published on 25 January 2024
In this episode, we embark on a maritime journey with Gary Joyce, a seasoned professional from Saint John Pilot Boats, part of the Atlantic Pilotage Authority. Gary generously shares his wealth of experience in the industry, offering insights into his fascinating career path and how he found himself navigating the waters of marine piloting.
Join us as we explore the day-to-day life of a Marine Pilot, showcasing the intricacies of their responsibilities and gaining a glimpse into what a...
Opinion Rituals around shipping. The „Titanic“ never got its name in a christening...
by Bianca Reineke, lutheran Pastor, Germany - published on 23 December 2022
Do you ever leave the harbour to get on a vessel you will guide along without a ritual? Whatever we trust in, whatever the rituals or traditions you Marine Pilots have - when you board your pilot boats, climb the ladders, get the vessels through the harbour - keep them and cherish them, they are good and they are important.