PILOT (Pilot Boat)
historic place
The PILOT, a historic boat in San Diego, California, was launched in 1914. Built in a local boatyard by Manuel Goularte, this 52-foot wooden diesel-powered vessel became San Diego's first powered pilot boat. For 82 years, until 1996, the PILOT served as the chief pilot craft for San Diego Bay, guiding thousands of commercial ships safely into and out of the harbor. During World War II, the PILOT also contributed to national defense, serving as both a pilot and patrol boat under the Coast Guard. She earned six six-month service chevrons for her wartime duties. In 1996, the PILOT was donated to the Maritime Museum of San Diego. After restoration, she was relaunched in 2002 and now operates as a museum ship, offering historic bay cruises. The PILOT is recognized as a Historic Place and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This vessel provides a direct link to San Diego's maritime past and its evolution as a global port.