ˈpilot-boat A boat in which pilots cruise off shore in order to meet incoming vessels. 1588T. Hickock tr.Frederick's Voy. 14 Like to our little pilot boats.1710Lond.Gaz.No. 4682/3 He came not to Anchor, only spoke with a Pilot-Boat.1832Marryat N. Forster li, A..note sent on shore by a pilot-boat.