The St. Lawrence River

Ah! The St. Lawrence River …! Majestic, immense, essential. However, of all the rivers in the world, the “Mighty River” gives sailors many a headache. The old salts of the sea claim it is indomitable and younger captains dread it. The St. Lawrence is known as one of the world’s most difficult rivers to navigate. Yet, thousands of ships with various cargoes travel this trade route into the heart of North America every year.

Increasingly larger ships from all over the world also mean more challenges, preparation, and planning. This is where maritime pilots step in, faithful watchmen on duty to ensure the safety of inland navigation.

But who are these pilots? What is their job? Are they still necessary despite all the current technologies? And is the St. Lawrence River as capricious as they say?