[PUP] T&T: Pilotage for foreign yachts

[Mike Maurice]

What I posted in the previous post is technically correct. But, a survey 
of the US West Coast shows 12 ports where pilotage is compulsory in 
certain cases, including foreign vessels(yachts); I can find no specific 
instance where using a USCG licensed master or mate, acting as pilot 
will get you by.
It's not that there are no ports where this can be utilized, it's that I 
can't verify any.

Mostly because the Coast Pilot information is vague or contradictory, or 
incomplete in that it does not accurately reflect the state statutes; 
Washington State being a specific example. In the case of Alaska, the 
present material in SE Alaska is so complex for any vessel over 65 feet 
that I have no idea how to comply. See the Coast Pilot #8, latest edition.

The reason this is such a mess is that when the Federal Government was 
first formed, the states were given the power to regulate foreign trade 
in their jurisdictions. This means that they can abuse foreign vessels 
pretty much any way they want, in this pilotage business.

Because there are so many states involved, perhaps 25 coastal, it is 
hard to find detail information. The Merchant Marine Officers Handbook, 
4th ed. page 18-21, indicates that a state may make it a criminal 
offense to take a vessel through waters where a pilot is required 
without a pilot. In short, I have no detail information as to what the 
penalties are. Also, ships are not absolutely bound to accept such 
services, but must pay their fees, if such services are tendered and 
declined. Also, US vessels, those enrolled and licensed are exempt by 
Federal Statute from compulsory pilotage.

The definitions for US Registry, Enrollment, License, Fishery, etc are 
in Title 46 USC Sec. 12101.
      (2) ``license'', ``enrollment and license'', ``license for the
     coastwise (or coasting) trade'', and ``enrollment and license for
     the coastwise (or coasting) trade'' mean a coastwise endorsement as
     provided in section 12106 of this title.

More later, when I can find it.

Mike

_____________________________________
Capt. Mike Maurice
Beaverton Oregon(Near Portland)