I have often wondered - who are the pilots who navigate those massive tankers and bulk carriers through the Penobscot Bay. They are the men and women (like Capt. Jane Ryan) of the Penobscot Bay & River Pilots Association. They serve Searsport, Bucksport, and Bar Harbour.
The switch from the 61 foot pilot boat to ship via the ladder over the side may be a piece of cake on balmy days like the afternoon I took the shot above. But what about in a gale like this?
