Marine Pilots

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[edit] Marine Pilots; Local maritime experts for large ships

Marine Piloting is one of the oldest, least known professions and yet one of the most important in terms of maritime safety. The economic and environmental risk from todays large cargo ships makes the role of the pilot essential.

By far the most challenging part of any ship's voyage is the passage through the narrow waterways that lead to port and the final docking of the ship. The pilot brings to the ship expertise in handling large vessels in confined waterways and expert local knowledge of the port. In addition to bringing local maritime expertise onboard the pilot also relieves the captain from the economic pressures that can compromise safety. Instead of being part of the ship's crew, pilots are employed locally and therefore act on behalf of the public rather than that of the shipowners.

Beyond the experience and training of regular ship's captains, pilots also receive special, ongoing training to stay on top of their profession. Pilots are required by law in most major sea ports of the world for large ships.