Nav Brief - The power of pilots

David Patraiko FNI - Director of Projects, The Nautical Institute

Pilotage is a specialist navigation activity that utilises skills far beyond those required by an Officer of the Watch (OOW) as identified in the IMO STCW Convention. Pilots bring on board a huge depth of knowledge regarding their area, and the most up-to-date information available about everything from shifting sandbars and weather patterns to construction, port traffic, tug characteristics and much more. On top of this, they have shiphandling skills that have been learned through years of apprenticeship with senior Pilots, and the experience that comes from manoeuvring ships in the most demanding environments, day in and day out.

It is clear why having this level of expertise on the bridge of a ship is a legal requirement in most ports. However, Pilots are only human and, like every member of the bridge team, require a good level of communication and professionalism to work well with the team. Captain Simon Pelletier, President of the International Maritime Pilots’ Association, outlines some best practices for making this relationship effective in his article on page four. He outlines the skills and services that a Pilot brings on board, but also explains the support and professional conduct they need from the onboard team to do their job properly.

Captain Ed Verbeek further reflects on page six some of the more specific skills that a Pilot needs, beyond those taught to an OOW. He looks in particular at skills relating to visual references and how to balance internal and external forces to ensure efficient and effective shiphandling.

Although pilotage skills are essential to Pilots, they are also extremely useful for OOWs to learn and practise as well. Observing pilotage in action is an excellent way for navigation officers to learn new skills, better identify hazards and hone their ability to control the movement of their vessel. While noting Captain Pelletier’s advice on the role of the OOW while working with a Pilot, there will normally be plenty of opportunities during most pilotages to ask questions and learn further – just make sure the time is right!

Piloting is an honoured career path for navigation officers who might want to refine their skills, work closer to home and serve their communities by safeguarding navigation. Further information about piloting can be found at www.impahq.org. In any case, good pilotage skills serve all officers, so please discuss the articles in this issue of The Navigator with your shipmates, always pay attention during pilotage and ask questions when it is safe to do so.