A pilot boat is a specialized vessel that is used to transport pilots to and from ships that are entering or leaving port. Pilot boats are typically small, fast vessels that are designed to operate in a variety of weather conditions and sea states. They are equipped with a range of navigational and communication equipment to assist with their operations. When a ship is approaching a port, it will typically send a request for a pilot to the port authority, who will dispatch a pilot boat to meet the ship and bring the pilot onboard.