WELCOME TO
SAN JUAN BAY PILOTS
Safe and efficient movement of all type of vessels that transit San Juan Bay.
GET TO KNOW US
For about a century the San Juan Bay Pilots have ensured the safe and efficient movement of all type of vessels that transit San Juan Bay. The members of San Juan Bay Pilots are all highly skilled and experienced mariners.
Despite shifting currents, tides, high winds or heavy rain, the San Juan Bay Pilots expertly and efficiently navigate the bay. They posess the experience, ship handling skills and local knowledge that enable them to move seagoing vessels safely.
Our services are essential to the flow of goods between San Juan and the world. We work closely with shipping agencies, tug companies, and the U.S. Coast Guard to deliver cargo and passengers safely and on time.
FAQ
1What is a San Juan Pilot?
A San Juan Pilot is a local knowledge expert Commissioned by the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. They are highly skilled and trained in assuming the conduct of large ships with the utmost care within the harbor limits.
2What is a Federal Pilot?
A Federal Pilot holds a USCG endorsement to pilot US registered ships engaged in domestic trade.
3What is the difference between a State Pilot and a Federal Pilot?
State Pilots are compulsory pilots required by state law for all vessels engaged in foreign commerce. State Pilots are commissioned by individual states to represent the public trust. State Pilots also hold a Federal Pilot license. State Pilots require much more training and experience than a Federal Pilot. A Federal Pilot can only service vessels engaged in domestic trade.
4How do San Juan Pilots protect the public interest while ensuring the safe flow of commerce?
San Juan Pilots are compulsory and hold a commission from the Pilot Commissioners who are appointed by the Governor of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. This system ensures each commissioned pilot makes decisions based solely on professional experience and accepted safe navigational practices without any commercial influence clouding his/her judgment. San Juan Pilots meet the highest commissioning standards in the nation.
Required Boarding Arrangement
- Inbound San Juan Harbor: Pilot ladder starboard side 1 meter above the water.
- Outbound: Port Side Pilot ladder 1 meter above the water.
- Pilot Boarding Area 3 Miles North from the entrance.
- All Ships at San Juan harbor must maintain radio watch on channel 14 at all times.
