Pilot on Board

Marine pilots have guided ships into and out of every major harbour around the world for centuries, in fact millennia. Even though it is one of the world’s oldest continuing professions, there is little understanding of the role of the pilot. Often it is thought they drive the tugs, or perhaps lead the ship in with the pilot boat.

Many are surprised to hear the pilot boat is the transport for the pilot out to the ship from where they proceed to climb a rope ladder and scramble onboard, day and night and in all weather conditions. They then meet the captain, take over the vessels navigation through port waters and manoeuvre the ship into its allocated berth, controlling the tugs and other aspects of this complex operation. Although ships have increased in size and technology has advanced considerably, these essential elements of the pilot’s role have remained remarkably consistent over time.

This photographic exhibition aims to highlight the critical role marine pilots have played in the Port of Fremantle since the first pilot service began in 1829. It also marks the 30th anniversary of Fremantle Pilots as the pilotage provider in the Port of Fremantle.