Originally Posted by
Mesabah
With single pilot, they would put in a second pilot virtually, during high workloads. That may even not be necessary.
the pilots are put on board because they have specific knowledge of the channels, procedures, markings hazards and other local conditions of that particular location, that the crew of an oceangoing vessel wouldn't have, and couldn't be expected to have. The pilot isn't put on board because they are shorthanded by 1 person on the bridge.