pilotage
The Auriga Pilotage team provides Australia’s extensive 24/7 marine pilotage service. Our longest-running operation dates back to 1874 in the Torres Strait and the Great Barrier Reef to Victoria.
With a team of over 80 Marine Pilots operating nationally, we perform more than 9,000 pilotage movements across 13 locations throughout Australia.
We’re the only pilotage company to offer both port and reef pilotage service on a national basis, covering Western Australia, Northern Territory, Queensland and Victoria.
Reef Services
Our reef pilotage team employs 45 plus Master Mariner Reef Pilots who conduct over 2,500 reef pilot operations each year.
These pilots operate various services along the Queensland coast, including the world’s longest single-handed pilotage operation from Booby Island to Cairns, which is a total distance of 485 nm.
They are responsible for ensuring the safe passage of ships through the Torres Strait from the Pacific Ocean to the Indian Ocean and vice versa. The team also support the efficient passage of vessels through Hydrographers Passage.
Some of our specialist pilots are also exclusively recognised by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority as Master Reef Guides. Our pilots are the only ones in Australia licensed as Master Reef Guides, allowing us to service the international cruise ship and super yachts markets exclusively.
Port Services
Our team of 35 port pilots operate in 10 locations across the country and safely perform more than 6,500 port pilotage movements annually.
From Western Australia, Northern Territory, Northern Queensland to Victoria our pilots have the experience and licences to provide reliable, safe and timely services regardless of vessel.
The team currently provide thousands of marine piloting services to some of the largest mining and maritime companies operating in and out of Australia, including Rio Tinto, Chevron, Woodside, BHP, Maersk, Mermaid Marine, Swire, K-Line, ANL and Citic Pacific.
The Auriga difference.
Our marine pilots are fully supported by experienced operational support teams, who provide scheduling, logistics and transfer services to support our pilots and customers to ensure safe pilotage operations every time.
Auriga Pilots are sourced from Command positions and have years of experience in high-value vessels. All pilots undergo Continuous Professional Development and attend simulation training annually, covering ship handling and Bridge teamwork exercises.
With experience navigating complex routes, we utilise the latest state-of-the-art navigation systems to support pilotage, ensuring each transit is completed safely and efficiently.
We have strong relationships with the ports in which we operate and are fully accredited with the relevant governing bodies and associations, including the International Standard for Pilot Organisations (ISPO) code. Our operations are in compliance with the Pilotage Operational Safety Management System, which is audited and approved by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority and forms part of our ISO-approved systems.
