Pilot disembarked starboard side

Based on Pilot, Tug Master and Ship Captain Questionnaires

Compiled by:

Captain Henk Hensen FNI FITA Captain Daan Merkelbach FITA Captain F. van Wijnen MNI

DPC provide a Pilot Service for vessels visiting the port, the service involves putting on and taking off Pilots from the vessels both in port and at sea. Only personnel who are qualified, trained and passed out as competent in their respective roles are involved in this operation which will normally involve a Coxswain to helm the boat, a boatman to look after the deck operations and ensure the safety of the Pilot throughout the operation. Following correct procedures and utilising all...

SENIOR PILOT CAPTAIN ERTAN OZGUR performing berthing maneuvering of Wagenborg co ship MV LAGANBORG during strong current. She has bowthruster, right handed pitch propeller and becker flap rudder. She has asked to come alongside from her portside. She will be using 1 tugboat. Time lapse. Gopro Max. @captertanozgur

Gladding-Hearn Shipbuildiing, Duclos Corporation, has taken an order for a rigid-bottom, soft-sided pilot boat from the Lake Pilots. The Resilient class high-speed launch is the Michigan pilots’ third boat built by the Somerset-Mass. Shipyard since 1979.

This video explores the question of why ships are so difficult to manoeuvre in reverse.

“The current plight many seafarers are facing, unable to crew change or return home, is being described by many voices within the maritime community as the next humanitarian crisis.”

Footage from faraway countries shows a reality that is incompatible with safety standards set by IMPA, EMPA and other organisations. There is still much to be done to protect the lives of all pilots worldwide.

For many people, a career in the shipping industry seems like an unlikely choice, but others are making this improbable dream a reality.