Texas State Harbor Pilots

The Port Pilot, by Richard Blanco. In _Looking for The Gulf Motel_, 2012, University of Pittsburgh Press.

Pilots are expert ship handlers who possess detailed knowledge of local waterways. They are transported by high speed "Pilot Boat" or helicopter from shore to an inbound ship and from an outbound ship back ashore. Most ports have compulsory pilotage.

Gabon, Baie du Prince, 2012.
Getting that nice fat lady alongside

Pilot recruitment has traditionally been based on seniority, and extensive sea experience. However, a more modern approach, hiring younger, motivated candidates with structured training, offers an alternative path with compelling advantages.

Delta Launch Services has ordered a new pilot boat from Gladding Hearn Shipbuilding (Duclos Corporation).

This is the sixth St. John’s Class launch built by the Somerset, Mass. shipyard. Delivery of the new 52-footer is scheduled for July 2020.

We have reached Port Said at the northern end of the Suez Canal. Could not have been a more enjoyable adventure. Thank you Suez Canal Authority for the two excellent pilots, specially Emad, and the support specially at Ismailia.
Editor's note:
Other countries, other habits: especially when it comes to safety standards. Life jackets, for example, are not to be seen here.

Take a narrated journey with me on a large crude oil tanker ship. Starting from sea to taking pilot, entering the Port Aransas Jetties, to ending all fast and moored at dock near Corpus Christi Texas. In the video I film the Pilot Boarding the vessel while underway. Link To New Ships YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPACsIutgWlmrhrJ6JCmCIg For inquiries info@thirdcoastdrone.com Web https://www.thirdcoastdrone.com Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Third-...