# Pilotage Service

*Last updated: 2026-06-26*

> Pilotage is the compulsory or voluntary use of a licensed harbor pilot to navigate a vessel through confined or hazardous port waters—from the outer approaches to the berth and back.

Pilotage is the compulsory or voluntary use of a licensed harbor pilot to navigate a vessel through confined or hazardous port waters—from the outer approaches to the berth and back. Pilots bring detailed local knowledge of tidal patterns, currents, traffic separation schemes, and port-specific hazards that visiting ship masters cannot be expected to hold for every port of call. Most major ports mandate pilotage for vessels above a defined length or gross tonnage threshold, and pilots operate under strict national certification and liability frameworks. The fee is charged per passage and appears as a standard disbursement in the port cost statement. Unlike towage, pilotage is an advisory and navigational function—physical propulsion remains with the vessel or its assisting tugs.

**Source:** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilotage](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilotage)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Pilotage Service |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 119 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-26 |
| Source | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilotage |

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