Who We Are


Founded in 1896, The Pilots' Association for the Bay and River Delaware is one of the oldest state pilot organizations in the nation and a recognized world leader in the technology, training, and accountability of piloting.

Delaware River & Bay pilots are highly trained and experienced mariners responsible for the safe navigation of commercial vessels on the Delaware River & Bay and its tributaries, the Schuylkill & Salem Rivers and the Chesapeake & Delaware Canal, from the Atlantic Ocean to the head of navigation in Trenton, NJ.

Our Pilots typically have extensive maritime backgrounds and train for 3 or 4 years under the guidance of experienced pilots, prior to being issued their State and Federal licenses. After completing their initial training pilots undergo regular continuing education, including bridge resource management, emergency shiphandling and navigation technology, as well as other types of instruction on full mission bridge simulators and manned models.

Who We Are       Role of the Pilot       Pilots and Maritime Security