Safety
For nearly a century, Puget Sound Pilots have maintained one of the best safety records in the nation. Our expertise protects property and people and prevents damage that could harm our ecosystem or grind our economy to a halt.
Decreasing risk, one voyage at a time.
Every vessel entering Puget Sound carries freight that’s critical to our state’s economy. But those vessels can also carry risk. Having a licensed Puget Sound Pilot on board lowers that risk. Our pilots safeguard the Sound with their expert navigation, observation and action when it matters most.
Puget Sound Pilots are the first line of defense when ships are coming into and leaving our waterways. Their expertise avoids collision, spills or grounding, which are costly and dangerous.
Protecting ships, shores and the Sound.
Puget Sound Pilots guide some of the world’s largest ships through complex waterways. Our state-licensed professionals have unparalleled experience navigating strong currents, narrow channels and unpredictable weather. Each safe arrival and departure protects the people and infrastructure of Washington’s waterways.
The first Americans on board.
When international vessels enter U.S. waters, Puget Sound Pilots are the first Americans to step aboard. We’re the eyes and ears that can identify possible hazards and safety violations and notify the proper authorities.
Safety never sleeps.
In all kinds of weather, at all hours of the day, our work doesn’t slow down. For nearly a century, Puget Sound Pilots have worked around the clock to keep our waters — and everyone who depends on them — safe.