Pilotage charges cover the services of what in port?

• A. Engine maintenance
• B. Pilotage services in port
• C. Cargo handling
• D. Customs clearance

Answer: (B)

Pilotage charges are paid for the local harbor pilot’s services. A harbor pilot is a specially qualified navigator who boards the vessel to guide it through the port’s approaches, channels, traffic, tides, and berthing maneuvers, ensuring safe entry and exit. This fee covers the pilot’s time, expertise, and use of the pilotage service within the port. It is not for engine maintenance, cargo handling, or customs clearance, which are separate functions: engine maintenance is on-board mechanical work, cargo handling is loading/unloading, and customs clearance is administrative processing.