Section 12:8-53 - Authority of docking pilotsa. A docking pilot is authorized upon the approval of the master of a vessel upon pilotage waters as defined in section 2 of P.L. 2004, c. 72(C.12:8-1.2) to: (1) Dock or undock vessels; direct the navigation of vessels within the harbor being moved from an anchorage to an anchorage or to a berth; direct the navigation of vessels within the harbor being moved from a berth to an anchorage or another berth; direct the navigation of vessels departing the port until relieved by a maritime pilot licensed by the commission or the Commissioners of Pilotage of the State of New York, at such locations where by custom and practice prior to the effective date of P.L. 2004, c. 72(C12:8-1.1 et al.) such relief took place, provided that the maritime pilot, docking pilot and the vessel's master concur that the relief can be accomplished without compromising the safe navigation of the vessel; and(2) Direct the navigation of vessels entering the port upon relieving a maritime pilot licensed by this commission or the Commissioners of Pilotage of the State of New York for the purpose of docking such vessels at such points where by custom and practice prior to the effective date of P.L. 2004, c. 72(C.12:8-1.1 et al.) such relief took place, provided that the relief can be accomplished without compromising the safe navigation of the vessel.b. Nothing in the provisions authorizing the licensing of docking pilots is intended to authorize licensed docking pilots to pilot regulated vessels on pilotage waters as they enter or leave the Port of New York and New Jersey.c. Nothing in the provisions of this section is intended to preclude licensed maritime pilots from docking or undocking vessels, conducting in harbor movements of vessels or piloting vessels on pilotage waters.d. When the services of a tugboat are employed to dock or undock a vessel, a docking pilot shall be employed by the vessel if requested by the vessel owner or agent.Added by L. 2004, c. 72, s. 37, eff. 8/30/2004.