Sec.15-15a-13. Boarding, departing and conduct of pilots

(a) A pilot embarking or disembarking a vessel shall at the time of boarding or departing assure that a lee is provided for the pilot boat and the speed of the vessel is appropriately adjusted. The pilot shall board or depart the vessel on a suitable ladder properly placed and secured.

(b) A pilot's services end and he is entitled to discharge by the master of a vessel when he has brought the vessel to a safe anchorage or to a position off the pier which the vessel is bound, unless the master shall have formally requested the pilot to assist in the docking of the vessel. Whenever formally requested by the master to do so, the pilot of a vessel may assist in either the docking or undocking of such vessel. A pilot shall not turn over the controls or leave a vessel under way unless he shall have first been properly relieved.

(c) A pilot, on boarding a vessel, and if required by the master thereof, shall exhibit his license or a photocopy thereof.

(d) No licensed pilot shall, while on duty prior to meeting a vessel, consume alcohol or any drug that may impair his ability to have the conduct of the vessel.

(e) No licensed pilot shall have the conduct of a vessel.

(1) When he knows of any physical or mental disability that prevents him from performing the duties of a pilot.

(2) While his license is suspended.

(f) Whenever any pilot shall observe any of the buoys off station or any other aid to navigation not lighted at the proper time or not showing the proper characteristics, he shall report the same to the U.S. Coast Guard via VHF radio or by telephone after returning to shore.

(g) The master of every vessel boarded by a pilot shall give such pilot on boarding, an accurate account of the draft of such vessel, position, heading, wind, and any and all pertinent information.

(h) Vessel measurements, including "overall length," "extreme breadth," and "depth" shall be made available to the pilot by the master or his agent for the computation of pilotage fees.

(i) A state licensed pilot shall conduct himself in a professional manner at all times. Rude, abusive or threatening behavior during the performance of piloting duties is misconduct.

(Effective November 12, 1991; Amended January 3, 2011)