Gracie (pilot boat)

The Gracie was a historic pilot boat that served the Port of New York. Pilot boats were crucial for guiding ships safely through the treacherous waters of the harbor, especially during periods of poor visibility or adverse weather conditions. They would meet incoming vessels and provide experienced pilots who knew the local waters intimately. The Gracie, like other pilot boats of its era, was designed for speed and seaworthiness, needing to reach incoming ships quickly and remain stable in rough seas. The exact period of service and further details, such as builder or dimensions, require additional research to confirm but pilot boats named Gracie, or a variation of, were not uncommon in the history of maritime pilotage. They represented a vital link in the chain of maritime safety and efficiency. Pilot boats, including any boat named Gracie, were gradually replaced by more modern vessels with advanced navigation and communication technology.