Pilotage

Poole Harbour Commissioners, the Competent Harbour Authority (CHA) for Poole Harbour and the Port of Poole, provide a safe and effective pilotage service, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

The Pilotage Directions define the pilotage district area and the requirements for compulsory pilotage within it.

A system of Pilotage Exemption Certificates (PEC) is operated by PHC for ships’ Deck Officers who are regular callers at the Port. The process of issuing these Certificates involves intensive assessment of each applicant with annual renewal requirements.

Key documents:

Pilotage Directions

Pilotage Policy

Pilotage Plan

Berth Plan

Pilotage is compulsory for all ships, including tug and tows, navigating in the Compulsory Pilotage Area

Compulsory Pilotage does not apply to the following categories of excepted vessels:

• Her Majesty’s vessels
• Vessels of less than 50 metres in overall length unless 30m or more in overall length carrying dangerous goods or liquid bulk dangerous cargoes of flammable or toxic properties or carrying more than 12 passengers

See the Pilotage Directions for further detail.