A pilot is a
mariner who guides
ships through dangerous or congested waters, such as
harbours or
river mouths. Legally the master remains in command of the ship. The pilot is an adviser only.Their size and mass makes large ships are very difficult to maneuver; the stopping distance of a
supertanker is typically measured in
miles and even a slight error in judgment can cause
millions of
dollars in damage. For this reason, many years of experience in an operating area are required to qualify as a pilot.
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