In some cases, where a Shipmaster is unfamiliar with the port area or it is a particularly
hazardous area to navigate, pilots who have specific localised port knowledge are available to guide vessels into and out of the port safely. They will usually charge ships a fee for their services. However, this is not a guaranteed service for Shipmasters at every port and it is strongly recommended to prepare for and plan the passage into and out of ports in extensive detail in advance to avoid any navigational issues or potential accidents.