This page explains how to properly request marine pilot services coordinated by Northeast Marine Pilots, including required notice periods, dispatch procedures, and important operational considerations for vessels transiting Northeast pilotage waters.
ORDER A NORTHEAST MARINE PILOT
All orders must be placed by phone.
401-847-9050
- Dispatch is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Online or email pilot orders are not accepted
- Orders must be placed and confirmed verbally with dispatch at least 24 hours before POB
How Pilot Orders Are Coordinated
Northeast Marine Pilots coordinates the dispatch of state-licensed marine pilots serving designated waters in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New York. Dispatch personnel coordinate pilot availability and boarding logistics consistent with applicable regulations and operational conditions. Dispatch does not determine whether pilotage is compulsory for a specific vessel or transit but early consultation and clear communication promote operational effectiveness and safety.
ADVANCE NOTICE REQUIREMENTS
Minimum Notice Periods
To support safe and efficient pilot dispatch, the following advance notice guidelines apply:
* Arrivals/ Transits / Pilot Boarding (POB): Minimum 24 hours prior to boarding
* Departures: Minimum 12 hours prior to departure
* Shifts: Should be coordinated as soon as possible.
Providing earlier notice is encouraged whenever possible, particularly during periods of high traffic, weather impacts, or complex scheduling.
INFORMATION REQUIRED TO PLACE AN ORDER
- Vessel name
- IMO or official number
- Flag state
- Gross tonnage / vessel type / Cargo Type
- ETA Pilot Station
- Route: From where to where
- ETD From Berth/Shift
- Drafts (in and out)
- Coordinated tugs and lines times
- Agent contact information
- Any known deficiencies (steering, engine, comms, etc.)
- This information helps us assign the appropriate pilot, verify regulatory applicability, and coordinate boarding in accordance with safety protocols.
GEOGRAPHICAL CONSIDERATIONS
Pilotage requirements may vary based on vessel type and tonnage, flag state, draft, specific waters transited, segment of a voyage. Because a single transit may pass through multiple jurisdictions, pilotage applicability can change during the course of a voyage. Vessel owners, operators, and masters are responsible for determining regulatory compliance in consultation with dispatch. Learn more about Compulsory Pilotage
ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE HOURS (NON-DISPATCH)
For billing, records, or general administrative inquiries only. Administrative hours Mondays-Fridays, 0800-1700; Weekends & Holidays, 0800-1200. All pilot orders must be placed through 24/7 dispatch at 401-847-9050.
PLAN YOUR TRIP – ORDERING A PILOT RELATED INFO
