Ordering Pilots

Vessels and agents should call to schedule pilots well in advance of arrival or departure to minimize the risk of delays due to other scheduled traffic or tide and current restrictions.

Notification

Vessels are requested to report their estimated time of arrival (ETA) to St. Johns Lighted RACON Buoy (STJ), and their deepest fresh water draft, by radio to the pilot station at least 2 hours and again 1 hour prior to their arrival at the sea bouy. The pilot station will confirm start in time and requested side for pilot ladder. The pilot station monitors VHF ch. 16 & 13 and Pilots work chnls 14 and 17. Vessels bound for Naval Station Mayport should contact Mayport Harbor Control on VHF ch 12.

Boarding

Pilot boarding area is a half (1/2) mile East of buoy STJ.

Pilot ladder shall be rigged in accordance with SOLAS Regulation 17, Chapter V, on the ship’s lee side, the lowest rung 3 meters, (10 feet) above the water.

Requested boarding speed is 8-10 knots through the water.