All pilots in the Association are dual licensed by both the State of Florida and the United States Coast Guard to provide compulsory marine pilotage to all seagoing vessels calling at Port Everglades or Port Dania.  The type of pilot required falls into two general categories, state and federal.  

In general, all foreign flag and certain U.S. flag ships with a draft of 7 feet or greater require a state licensed pilot when entering or leaving port or when underway upon the navigable waters of the bays, rivers, harbors, and ports of Florida.  Detailed state pilot requirements for vessels may be found in F.S. 310.    

Federal pilot requirements differ from those of the state of Florida.  In general, specific federal requirements apply to U.S. flag vessels operating in domestic voyages.  Federal pilot requirements for pilots may be found in 46 USC 8501 and 8502.  Additional detailed requirements may be found in 46 CFR Part 15.812.

Calling for a Pilot

Requests for a pilot may be made by hailing the pilots directly on VHF Channel 14/16.  Pilot and tug assistance requests may also be passed through the Harbormaster on VHF Channel 14 or via telephone at 954-765-4602.  Additionally, a request for a pilot may be made through the ship's agent.  A one hour notice prior to arrival, departure or shifting is required to provide timely pilotage service.