Definition

Noun: A small, fast boat used to transport maritime pilots between land and larger ships that are arriving at or departing from a port. Its primary function is to carry the pilot, who has expert knowledge of the local harbor, to guide the larger vessel safely.

Usage

The term "pilot boat" is used to refer specifically to this type of vessel. It is a compound noun. - The pilot boat approached the container ship to transfer the harbor pilot. - Strong winds made the transfer from the pilot boat to the freighter very difficult.

Advanced Usage

• "to meet the pilot boat": A phrase used in maritime contexts when a ship slows or stops to allow the pilot to board.
  • The captain ordered the ship to reduce speed to meet the pilot boat at the harbor entrance.

Variants and Related Words

• Pilotage (n): The act or business of piloting ships; the fee paid for this service.
• Pilot (n): The person who boards the ship to guide it. (Note: This is a separate word from the compound "pilot boat").

Synonyms

• Launch: A general term for a small motorboat, which can sometimes be used for similar purposes, though not specific to pilot transfer.
• Tender: A boat used to service or provide transport to a larger vessel.

Related Phrases

• "Pilot transfer arrangement": The technical term for the equipment and procedures (ladders, hoists) used to move a pilot between the pilot boat and the ship.

Noun

1. a boat to carry pilots to and from large ships