How Do You Become A Port Pilot In New York?
The Board of Commissioners of Pilots of New York issues three types of pilot licenses corresponding to three pilot associations, each of which manages its own portion of the state’s navigable waters. Perhaps the most renowned of the three is the Sandy Hook Pilots Association, which includes both New York- and New Jersey-licensed pilots and provides pilotage for the busy port of New York/New Jersey, the Hudson River up to Albany, Hell’s Gate (the East River) and the Long Island Sound. Sandy Hook Pilots were deeply involved in the response and recovery efforts on September 11, 2001. The qualifications for entrance into the New York State pilot system are rigorous, corresponding to the high degree of responsibility these professionals bear. But the rewards are also substantial. Complete four years of college. A bachelor’s degree is required for application to the New York State pilots’ licensing program. Send for, complete and submit an application. The Sandy Hook Pilots selection process
