Candidates almost always know that a pilot ladder must be rigged — but they answer as if they are the mate briefing a bosun. At command level, the examiner wants to see that you own the legal duty personally, understand what safe means in practice, and know when the Rules require you to override a pilot's actions.
The Master's legal position
SOLAS V/23 places the duty on the Master to provide a safe means of embarkation and disembarkation. That duty is yours; it cannot be delegated away. The fact that a pilot has boarded is irrelevant — SOLAS V/34 makes clear the pilot's presence does not relieve the Master or officer of the watch of their duties or responsibilities. You are responsible for what happens on the approach and alongside, not the pilot.
What the Regs actually require
SOLAS V/23 mandates compliance with the performance standards adopted by IMO. IMO Resolution A.1045(27) (Pilot Transfer Arrangements) contains the detailed requirements. Key command-level points:
- Ladder is rigged on the lower platform or hull side with steps horizontal and free of obstructions; the lower end does not float free of the hull in a sea way.
- The inboard spread of the steps must be sufficient to allow unobstructed access to the deck — current standards set this, but the principle is yours to enforce.
- Combination arrangements: when the freeboard is high enough to require a combination of ladder and accommodation ladder, the lower platform of the accommodation ladder must be secured so the pilot transfers from the ladder directly to the platform without stepping across a gap — the exact height threshold is stated in A.1045(27); know the principle even if you confirm the figure from the notice.
- Light at night: adequate lighting so the pilot can see the ladder and the crew can see the pilot.
- Crew at the point of embarkation: a responsible officer must be stationed and life-rings with self-igniting lights must be ready.
- Manropes (man-ropes) must be available if requested; the pilot may not always ask, but they must be provided if asked.
- The vessel must be stopped or at minimum steerage way and a lee provided where the boarding is on the weather side only if unavoidable.
Ship manoeuvring — command angle
When manoeuvring to receive or land a pilot, you set the course and speed. The pilot boat's approach is not your concern, but keeping your vessel steady so the pilot can transfer safely is. If sea state or the pilot boat's position makes the transfer unsafe, you have the authority and duty to say so and delay. A pilot boarding in unsafe conditions is your problem, not the port's.
MCA-specific hook for MSN 1858
MSN 1858 underpins certificate scope but does not alter the SOLAS V/23 duty. In the oral, if asked where the requirement comes from, cite SOLAS V/23 and IMO A.1045(27). Do not cite MCA guidance as the primary source.