The role of pilots

When a pilot arrives on a ship’s navigation bridge and the words “At the command of the master on the advice of the pilot” appear in the logbook, the legal relationship between the pilot and the master is established.

The pilot is a highly trained and qualified expert in the port and its harbour, and has excellent shiphandling skills.  He advises the captain on the conduct of the vessel within the local harbour limits and is responsible for the safe and smooth flow of traffic as well as for environmental protection.