A ship’s propeller is a marvel of marine engineering — a seemingly simple rotating device that plays a vital role in moving massive vessels across oceans. At its core, a ship's propeller converts rotational power from the ship’s engine into thrust, propelling the vessel forward or backward through water. A ship’s propeller works by spinning its blades to accelerate water in one direction, thereby pushing the ship in the opposite direction. Though it may appear simple, its function is governed by sophisticated physics and engineering.

Transverse thrust (also known as side thrust, asymmetric thrust and paddle wheel effect) is a phenomenon associated with the rotation of ship propellers, particularly noticeable when a ship is moving at low speeds or starting from rest. It primarily affects vessels with single-screw (single propeller) configurations.

Barry discusses the implications of transverse thrust and draws on his 25 years as a ships pilot to explain some of the ways transverse thrust is used to our advantage as well as some of the downsides of this interesting maritime phenomenon.

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In the world of global trade, few symbols capture the scale and efficiency of modern logistics like the containership. These vast floating warehouses are responsible for transporting 90% of the world’s goods, and over the past four decades, they have undergone a dramatic transformation in size and capacity. From the modest vessels of the 1980s to today’s ultra-large container ships (ULCS), the evolution of ship design has reshaped global supply chains, port infrastructure, and maritime economics.

Barry shares his experiences as a cadet in the 80's to a pilot today and the changes in size he has witnessed. Can they get any bigger.......?

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On March 10, 2025, a significant maritime collision occurred in the North Sea, approximately 12 miles off the coast of East Yorkshire, England. The Portuguese-flagged container ship MV Solong collided with the US-flagged oil tanker MV Stena Immaculate, which was anchored at the time. The impact led to both vessels catching fire and resulted in the presumed death of one crew member from the Solong.

Whilst the incident is being investigated it highlights the possibility that the OOW was not keeping a lookout - they may have been 'disconnected' from the safe operation of the vessel. Barry discusses the worrying trend in lookout related collisions.

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We are MCA accredited and offer orals Prep, via e learning, blended learning and 121 sessions via Teams as well as many other courses and educational support.

​The designation of the Mediterranean Sea as an Emission Control Area (ECA), effective May 1, 2025, represents a significant advancement in reducing air pollution from maritime activities in the region. As of this date, all vessels operating within the Mediterranean Sea are required to use marine fuels with a sulphur content not exceeding 0.10% mass by mass (m/m), a substantial reduction from the previous limit of 0.50% m/m

Barry discusses MARPOL Annex VI, the pollutants and their effects and ways of enforcing this upcoming change to international standards.

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We are MCA accredited and offer orals Prep, via e learning, blended learning and 121 sessions via Teams as well as many other courses and educational support.

The risk of fires on car carriers, particularly roll-on/roll-off (ro-ro) vessels, has become a growing concern in the maritime industry. Several recent incidents, including those involving Grimaldi Group vessels, have highlighted the unique challenges posed by transporting vehicles at sea. The increasing frequency and severity of these fires raise questions about fire prevention, ship design, and regulatory measures.

Car carriers are particularly vulnerable due to their design. These ships have multiple decks filled with tightly packed vehicles, which create an environment where fires can spread rapidly. Several factors contribute to the rising fire risk, including the carriage of Electric ~Vehicles. Barry discusses these risks and in particular thermal runaway and it's catastrophic consequences.

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We are MCA accredited and offer orals Prep, via e learning, blended learning and 121 sessions via Teams as well as many other courses and educational support.

The carriage of paper rolls at sea requires careful consideration to prevent cargo damage and ensure vessel stability. Paper rolls are highly sensitive to moisture, physical damage, and shifting during transit. Putting to sea in heavy weather can bring about hidden problems with such sensitive cargoes.

As he goes about his pilot duties Barry is lucky enough o be able to discuss the challenges of the carriage of various cargoes with the masters of the vessels that he pilots. One such discussion had prompted this incredibly interesting podcast.

Barry discusses the challenges of carrying paper, the masters decision to delay sailing due to the weather and other hazards that may exist in the carriage of drawing paper rolls.

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We are MCA accredited and offer orals Prep, via e learning, blended learning and 121 sessions via Teams as well as many other courses and educational support.

The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) is an international treaty that establishes a comprehensive legal framework for all activities in the world's oceans. Often referred to as the "Constitution of the Oceans," it outlines the rights and responsibilities of nations regarding the use of maritime resources and the protection of the marine environment.

The convention reinforces the principle that a vessel's flag state has an ongoing responsibility for activities on board, including safety and accident investigations. Even if an accident occurs in international waters, the flag state plays a critical role in the investigation process, as does the port state if it falls within it's territorial waters.

Barry discusses UNCLOS, how it compels flag states to investigate and gives examples of recent report activity; not just by the UK's own MAIB, but by other flag state bodies. Accident investigation is pivotal to ongoing maritime safety and engagement with these agencies is crucial in refining how we safely operate ships.

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We are MCA accredited and offer orals Prep, via e learning, blended learning and 121 sessions via Teams as well as many other courses and educational support.

Boarding pilots 12 miles off Portsmouth in all kinds of weathers is a developed skill. Launch coxswains are directly responsible for the safety of all aboard their launch and ultimately have the unenviable job of coaxing in ships to board them. Barry talks to Paul Tomlinson - a 27 year veteran of pilot launch driving - about the challenges faced by crews as they strive to board pilots safely.

The interview was recorded around and onboard Pilot Launch Majestic just before putting to sea for what was another successful big ship boarding.

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https://www.captainbarrysadler.com/

We are MCA accredited and offer orals Prep, via e learning, blended learning and 121 sessions via Teams as well as many other courses and educational support.