Harbor pilots have one of the most unique jobs in the world, but it can also be one of the most dangerous. They don't fly planes, but they do guide massive ships into Tampa Bay.
The 200,000 ton ships and cruises coming in haul gas, goods, and people in and out of Tampa Bay – $23 billion worth of good every year.
They're captains, though, aren't the ones steering them under the Skyway Bridge. One of Tampa Bay's harbor pilots can hop on, and while on the move, climb aboard to guide the ships in.
Harbor pilots spend years studying Tampa Bay's waters and need to be at every ship captain's side, calling out every command.
They not only have to be maritime experts, but athletes often climbing up 25-30-foot rope ladder.
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