Upward angle view of the wheelhouse on the m/v Nick G Buford. A high perch vantage point for a pilot is crucial in navigating along the inland waterways. Most wheelhouses are roughly 3-4 stories (30-40') above the waterline, which allows them greater visibility over and around empty barges that are often 15-20' above water and large tows, sometimes up to 2000' in length. The center bell is used during drills and emergencies, such as man-overboard, fire, hull breach and many other causes for immediate attention.
