Pilotage Plans
A pilotage plan is prepared before entering or leaving harbour. It should include: the approach course, waypoints, buoys to identify, transits and leading lines, clearing bearings, depth information, tidal considerations, and contingency plans.
Draw the plan on the chart, write key bearings and distances on a waterproof card, and brief the crew. Know the harbour entry signals and any restricted areas. Check the tide — you may need minimum depth at the bar or over a sill.
Key Points
- Prepare the plan in advance on the chart
- Include: courses, buoys, transits, clearing bearings, depths
- Write key information on a cockpit card
- Brief the crew on the plan and their roles
- Check tidal height for depth over bars and sills