Panama Canal Pilot Station
Pilot embarkation details, advance notice requirements, boarding position and VHF contacts.
Pilotage Type
Compulsory
Advance Notice
12–24 hours
VHF Call
CH 16 / local
H24 Service
Yes
Pilot Boarding Information
Compulsory AreaCheck port regulations
Boarding PositionSee chart / NtM
Pilot LadderSOLAS Reg. V/23 standards
Ladder HeightConfirm with pilot station
Max FreeboardCheck with pilot station
Boarding SideAs directed by pilot
Night BoardingAvailable — check locally
Bad Weather LimitContact pilot station
Pilot Ladder Requirements (SOLAS V/23)
Side steps must be horizontal and equally spaced 300–380mm apart.
Ladder must extend to the water surface with no gap at ship side.
Man-ropes to be rigged above the pilot boarding arrangement if freeboard exceeds 9 metres.
Pilot combination arrangement required if freeboard exceeds 9 metres (ladder + accommodation ladder).
Contact Information
VHF Channel
CH 16 for initial call, then working channel as directed
Call Sign
Panama Canal Pilot / Harbour Radio
Advance Notice
12–24 hours ETA — confirm with local agent