Vilanova Harbour Pilots – Guiding Giants

Harbour piloting is an art of precision, coordination, and deep local knowledge. In this piece, part of a larger series exploring harbour life, I document the Vilanova harbour pilots as they guide a large cargo ship out of the dock and into open waters. These highly skilled professionals work in perfect synchrony, relying on experience, instinct, and communication to maneuver massive vessels through tight spaces and shifting conditions.

Through cinematic footage and a close-up perspective, I seek to reveal the beauty of this job—one that blends technical mastery with an intimate understanding of the harbour’s currents, depths, and changing elements. This is not just about logistics; it is about trust, expertise, and the unseen hands that ensure maritime traffic flows smoothly. By capturing the rhythm and precision of their work, this piece aims to showcase the dedication behind a profession that remains largely out of sight, yet is essential to the life of a port.