The Finnish archipelago and fairways are difficult to navigate.
Vessels therefore run aground even under pilot assistance.
The question of state liability for damage caused by pilot error is an issue of interest in Finland. The pilot is personally responsible for damage caused by his negligent pilotage error. The pilot is not liable if his fault constitutes only minor negligence. If the pilot's negligence constitutes more than minor negligence, he will be obliged to compensate such an amount of the caused damage which is considered reasonable. Lawsuits against pilots are rare because damages are adjusted to modest amounts and also because the pilot usually lacks sufficient financial resources for a successful recovery.