What are the rules concerning pilotage in international waters?
Pilotage is the act of safely guiding a vessel through a given area, often involving international waters. In Virginia, the Maritime Law is specific in the rules and regulations that govern pilotage in international waters. The first rule states that any merchant vessel entering any Virginia port must submit to the local pilot and follow his instructions. The merchant vessel must take on the services of a licensed private pilot, and the owner of the vessel is responsible for any payment due to the pilot. Second, Virginia law requires that, regardless of destination, all vessels must abide by the International Maritime Organization’s Collision Regulations. This means that any vessel, whether it is Virginia-owned or from another state or country, must follow the International Maritime Organization’s requirements to avoid collisions. Lastly, it is illegal to refuse to pay the pilot for his services unless the pilot has provided a poor level of service or navigated the vessel in unsafe conditions. Any attempts to pay the pilot less than what is due are not allowed. Overall, these rules are designed to maintain the safe navigation of vessels entering and leaving Virginia ports. Following the rules of pilotage in international waters ensures the safety of all vessels, regardless of their origin.
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