Virginia Pilots safely and efficiently guide vessels to and from berths through the busy and complex waters of the Port of Virginia. Commissioned and licensed by the Commonwealth of Virginia, Pilots are expert ship handlers supported by professional administrative and operational staff. Virginia Pilots help protect the safety of the port and its waterways, together with the people, commerce, and environment that depend on them. Virginia Pilots operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, under constantly changing weather, traffic, and navigational conditions.