Panama Canal Pilotage
Mandatory transit pilotage by Panama Canal Authority (ACP) pilots, who take con of the vessel from sea buoy to sea buoy.
In practice
Compulsory; pilot embarks at the canal entrance and remains until the opposite end. Transit takes 8-10 hours including locks. Tolls are billed in advance via the agent based on PC/UMS tonnage and cargo type.
Regulatory detail & full definition
Unlike most pilotage where the master retains ultimate authority, in Panama Canal transits the pilot has direct authority over navigation and engine orders. Two pilots per vessel for Neo-Panamax. Locks operations also use locomotives ('mules') for centring. Typical transit 8-12 hours; northbound and southbound convoys.
Authoritative source: Panama Canal Authority ↗
Related
Source: Panama Canal Authority Vessel Inspection Standards; Panama Canal Regulations
High confidence
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