Port Information

Cowes Harbour Commissioners are designated a Competent Harbour Authority under the provisions of the Pilotage Act 1987 and are responsible for the Pilotage Service within the Cowes Pilotage Area.

The Solent is one of the busiest waterways in Europe with a mix of commercial, recreational and military traffic. It is also a complex tapestry of maritime jurisdictions and responsibilities.

Please view and download the Solent Pilotage Directions Guide 2012 below for an overview of the pilotage requirements in the Solent.

The detailed arrangements for pilotage within the Cowes Pilotage Area are contained in the Cowes Pilotage Directions published by Cowes Harbour Commission (CHC).