Virginia Decodedhttps://vacode.org5893454.1-915Pilot first meeting vessel at sea to have preference2025Professions and OccupationsProfessions and Occupations Regulated by the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation and Boards Within the DepartmentBranch PilotsDuties, Rights and Powers of Pilots

The first pilot who meets a vessel coming in, which his branch entitles him to conduct, shall have the right to take charge of and conduct her into port.

Code 1950, § 54-554; 1988, c. 765.