Towage and Pilotage

Towage and Pilotage

Port and Terminal Handbook

Please read the Port and Terminal Handbook for general information about visiting the Port of Broome.

Pilot Exemption Licenses

Masters of vessels up to 130 metres LOA can apply for a pilot exemption for all Kimberley ports. Your pilotage exemption will be for your specific vessel.

The exemption licence period will match the master’s medical certificate and the following documents are required to be lodged with your application:

  • Certificate of Competency,
  • Current medical certificate,
  • Log of entry and exits, and
  • Application fee of $660.00.

The Pilots and Pilot Exempt Master Handbook provides detailed information on how to organise pilot services, how Masters’ can become pilot exempt and all information required for pilots to berth a vessel at Port of Broome.

Restricted Visibility

When visibility is restricted please refer to the following procedure:

Tug Services

The Port of Broome is serviced by the tugs Yarra and Fitzroy Star both vessels provided by Broome Marine. The pilot launch is able to provide limited push/pull capability up to approximately 5 tonnes bollard pull.

Tugs will be employed at the discretion of the pilot/master in accordance with the Port of Broome towage guidelines.

The Port of Broome is tidal and restrictions are imposed on larger, less manoeuvrable vessels to ensure that they arrive and depart at the most favourable state of tide and wind.

Pilotage

Pilotage services are contracted to the Kimberley Pilotage Group.

Port of Broome operates on a 24 hour basis. Pilotage is compulsory for all vessels of 35m LOA or more unless exempt under the provisions of the WA Port Authorities Act 1999 or under a valid exemption certificate issued by KPA.

Pilot boarding positions are indicated on AUS 50.

The pilot boards by pilot launch and vessels are to provide an adequate lee for safe boarding. IMO guidelines for the rigging of pilot ladders, manropes and lighting arrangements are to be strictly adhered to.

Kestrel

About Pilotage

  • Pilot Vessel: KESTREL / (Lines Boat) Push /Pull Approximately 5 MT
  • Length: 17.0 Metres
  • Beam: 5.0 Metres
  • Max Speed: 28 knots
  • Listening on VHF Ch. 14 / 16
Pilotage Krestel

More about Pilotage

  • Pilot Ladder rigged with two man ropes 1.5 metres above the water
  • Boarding Speed 6/7 knots

Broome Marine Contact Details

Zarak Bin Lusimoen – 0428 523 581
operations@broomemarine.com
PO Box 1506
BROOME WA 6725

For more information regarding the pilot boat, please contact Broome Marine.