Our Services
Sabine Pilots Association
The Sabine Pilots Association consists of state-commissioned, federally licensed harbor pilots responsible for safely maneuvering deep-draft vessels on the Sabine-Neches Waterway. These services are compulsory for vessels that fall under the Texas Transportation Code 61. Exemptions include U.S. vessels engaged in coastwise trade, public vessels, motorboats registered in Texas, vessels under 20 gross tons, and vessels in distress.
Additionally, Sabine Pilots provide pilotage services upon request to coastwise and public vessels over 1600 gross tons or barges over 10,000 gross tons, as required under 46 CFR 15.812. All vessels meeting these criteria and entering the designated Sabine-Neches pilotage area must have a federally endorsed First Class Pilot onboard for safe transit.
Sabine Bank Channel Pilotage Association
The Sabine Bank Channel Pilotage Association offers voluntary pilotage services to vessels transiting the Sabine Bank Channel, extending beyond Texas' 3-nautical-mile territorial waters. The service, provided at the request of the vessel's master, ensures safe navigation by professional mariners who hold federal endorsements as First Class Pilots. This pilotage association supports vessels operating in waters outside state jurisdiction.
Sabine Pilot Services, Inc.
Sabine Pilots Services Inc. is the dedicated support entity for the Sabine Pilots, ensuring the smooth coordination of pilotage operations. This business unit manages critical tasks such as dispatching, scheduling, and invoicing for pilotage services. It also provides safe and efficient transportation for pilots to and from vessels, utilizing both pilot launches and helicopter services to ensure timely operations across the Sabine-Neches Waterway.
Sabine Pilots are crucial to the success of the shipping industry and the public ports of Sabine Pass, Beaumont, Port Arthur, and Orange, as well as the private terminals and industrial complexes throughout Southeast Texas. The Sabine-Neches Waterway is the lifeline of our region, facilitating global trade and economic growth. Since 1881, we have been steadfast in our commitment to ensuring the safety and environmental integrity of this vital waterway—a commitment we proudly uphold as we look to the future.