Government and industry

Maritime pilotage exists, first and foremost, to serve
the public interest

Pilots are responsible for the safe navigation of designated vessels through the many hazards of the country’s main waterways. Pilots are assigned to vessels by the federal government to conduct them, independent from shipowners and commercial pressure.

The near-perfect safety performance of Canada’s pilotage system, and the vital contribution that pilots make to the country’s international trade and economy is evidence of the system’s remarkable effectiveness.

The National Centre of Expertise on Maritime Pilotage works for the Canadian public, with government and their industry partners.

The Centre provides government with advice on key matters related to the technical
dimension of piloting, and on matters affecting the exercise of the profession.

The Centre also works with industry to optimize operational parameters, for example in respect of pilotage practices and procedures, and the development and operation of essential marine infrastructure.