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 Pilot Embarkation - Gangway Access - Unsafe Practice at Sea CHIRP Maritime Safety
published on 4 July 2019
The hazards of Pilot boarding
Throughout 2016, the International Maritime Pilots’ Association (IMPA) held a safety campaign focused upon the standard of pilot ladders and associated equipment. CHIRP supported this campaign and received many reports on the subject.
This first report describes issues concerning pilot access near
the non-parallel ends of a ship, and use of a retractable platform.
Video Not an easy pilot boarding in rough conditions: Milford Haven - 15-01-15
published on 10 March 2021
Article Interactive pilot ladder poster by UKMPA
by United Kingdom Maritime Pilots Association - published on 14 August 2025
Video MV SELILI JUST SAILED IN SUNGAI SIAK
published on 29 August 2021
Article Shareable Survey "Boarding and Landing Arrangements for Pilots" by Ewan Rattray
by Marine-Pilots.com - published on 26 August 2020
Opinion "U-Turn" by Ahmed Sati
by Dr. Captain Ahmed Sati - published on 29 April 2025
Video Bulk Carrier Docking at Liverpool Docks
published on 4 August 2020
Video Montrose Port Authority Pilot Boat Arrival
published on 29 December 2022
Montrose Port Authority's new pilot boat was welcomed by water cannons as it arrived at its new home at the port of Montrose on Thursday 22nd December, making its journey from Ireland where the boat was constructed.
Read more about the pilot boat arrival on the Montrose Port Authority website: https://montroseport.co.uk/2022/12/23/pilot-boat-new/