
photo by JDukes
Harbor pilots serve the State of South Carolina to prevent marine incidents that would result in harm to the environment, the public, and mariners; and to maintain a smooth and efficient flow of maritime commerce. Further, The Charleston Navigation Company, owned by the Pilots, provides technical and administrative services such as boat operations and radio […]
Read moreAs a full service pilot organization, Charleston Branch Pilots provide pilotage services to vessels engaged in domestic and foreign trade. All members are both state and federally licensed for unlimited tonnage throughout the Port of Charleston. State law requires a pilot on all foreign registered vessels, and U.S.-registered vessels engaged in international trade and with […]
Read moreLocated at the mouth of the harbor, the pilot office is fully equipped for around-the-clock vessel operations. State law requires at least three hours notice but 12-24 hours notice is typical. A dispatcher is available 24 hours a day to receive orders and arrange pilotage for vessels arriving and leaving the port. Outfitted with a […]
Read morephoto by JDukes
Among others, Charleston Pilots’ President Whit Smith discusses the growth of the port. Featured on SCETV public broadcasting network.
By W. Richardson
Recently, the South Carolina Ports Authority exported its two millionth BMW, which was manufactured at the plant in Greer. Plans are underway to deepen the Port, which will expand the Port’s competitiveness and capabilities, as it continues to be a force for growing the economy in our state.
Ever wonder what a transit looks like from the harbor pilot’s perspective on the bridge of a massive containership? Click here to see a time lapse video filmed from the offshore “C” Buoy to the Wando Welch Terminal.
This time lapse was filmed at sunset aboard the Charleston pilot boat Ft. Sumter in December 2013. It compresses an hour and 50 minutes of still photos shot during a trip offshore to retrieve two pilots disembarking ships near boarding station Bravo. Thanks to boat operator David Ernst for the great footage!