Pilot station

Historically, pilot stations would often be found on an island or other point at sea near a harbor, giving pilots ample time to transfer to an approaching boat.

It was typical that up to six pilots would be on a boat to board incoming vessels.

Pilots would have "station duty" where they were expected to patrol an area and not go beyond it.

When they were not on station boat duty they could go wherever they wanted and some went 300 miles or more from port.

[3] Ships will notify the pilot station by radio when they are expected to enter the harbor.