The Captain is the highest ranking officer on board a ship who is ultimately responsible for the safe navigation of the ship and crew. They oversee all operations of the ship and are employed by the ship's owner. A ship pilot only has authority within a designated pilotage district and boards the ship to provide navigation instructions to the Captain. The pilot directs the Captain on the proper course and speed but does not assume command of the ship. Pilots are typically employed by a port authority or pilotage company rather than the ship's owner.