For ships & agents
Order a pilot
Pilot dispatch · Homer, Alaska
Dispatchers: Casey Moss & Kathy Vogl.
How to order
To order a pilot, email dispatch@swpilots.net with the vessel particulars listed below and your ETA, and let dispatch know promptly if the ETA changes. The dispatcher will then confirm the pilot, the boarding area, the timing and the ladder requirements. The vessel should have a compliant pilot ladder rigged to SOLAS V/23, ready, well lit and tended by the crew.
Have ready
Vessel particulars to provide
Having these to hand when you contact dispatch lets us assign and position the right pilot without delay.
- Vessel name & call sign
- IMO number & flag (nationality)
- Gross tonnage (GT) & LOA
- Arrival & sailing draft
- ETA to the pilot boarding ground
- Last & next port; agent details
- Intended berth or movement
- Any defects affecting maneuvering
Notice requirements
Pilot orders require a minimum of 36 hours' notice. Provide as much advance notice as practicable and keep dispatch updated on ETA changes.
Boarding arrangements
Pilot boarding grounds vary by area and conditions; dispatch will confirm yours. Rig a compliant pilot ladder (and combination arrangement where required) per SOLAS V/23: clean, well-lit and tended by the crew.
Homer Pilot Station information
Station position, contact points and boarding protocol for ships arriving at the Homer pilot station.
Open the information sheet (PDF) →SWAPA Cook Inlet Guidelines, rev. 10/6/2023 (PDF) →