GPS and radar are used as aids, but it's primarily done the "old fashioned way" - by manually steering the ship. An officer who is licensed as a Great Lakes pilot controls the speed and directs the wheelsman when and how much to turn the wheel. While in the river systems the Captain is also on the bridge to coach, supervise, and exercise veto power as necessary. Traditional aids to navigation such as buoys, range lights, landmarks, etc. are used extensively. Autopilot is used in open water.
Thanks for the extra info. I was watching and observed the channel markers, especially at certain constriction points there were markers on both sides to insure ship could stay in channel. Excellent video, really enjoyable.
So cool. I'd love to travel on one of these some day. Great video
I always find it amazing how precisely they can maneuver these huge ships.
Thanks a lot for your speedy and informative reply.
That is such a great pov.
Those 1000 ft boats are so cool
That is sweet!
GPS and radar are used as aids, but it's primarily done the "old fashioned way" - by manually steering the ship. An officer who is licensed as a Great Lakes pilot controls the speed and directs the wheelsman when and how much to turn the wheel. While in the river systems the Captain is also on the bridge to coach, supervise, and exercise veto power as necessary. Traditional aids to navigation such as buoys, range lights, landmarks, etc. are used extensively. Autopilot is used in open water.
Thanks for the extra info. I was watching and observed the channel markers, especially at certain constriction points there were markers on both sides to insure ship could stay in channel. Excellent video, really enjoyable.
lucky dog!
How do you maneuver a thing like that so close to land? With GPS?
By eye and by experience. GPS don't tell you how much water's under your keel.