Published: Last Updated:

Rule 29: Pilot vessels

  1. A vessel engaged on pilotage duty shall exhibit:
    1. at or near the masthead, two all-round lights in a vertical line, the upper being white and the lower red;
    2. when underway, in addition, sidelights and a sternlight;
    3. when at anchor, in addition to the lights prescribed in sub-paragraph (i), the light, lights or shape prescribed in Rule 30 for vessels at anchor.
  2. A pilot vessel when not engaged on pilotage duty shall exhibit the lights or shapes prescribed for a similar vessel of her length.

What this means:

Rule 29: Pilot vessels – Our plain English guide to help you understand & remember this rule.

Pilot vessels have identifying lights; however, they don’t have any specific privileges under the rules. As far as the rules are concerned, they are treated as power-driven vessels. A pilot vessel is likely to be seen alongside or leading another vessel with a special status, such as constrained by draught or restricted in its ability to manoeuvre, so whilst they don’t have their own special status, there is likely a vessel that does nearby.

Day Shape

Contrary to popular belief, the rule book doesn’t have a day shape for Pilot vessels. However, they often display a white over red flag.

Lights

An all-round white light over an all-round red light, size-appropriate sidelights, and a stern light.