Compulsory Pilotage
The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system and is the only living thing that can be seen from space. It is composed of more than 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands stretching for more than 1,600 miles (2,600 kilometres) over an area of approximately 133,000 square miles (344,400 square kilometres). Australian Reef Pilots’ fundamental obligation is to protect the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and the World Heritage Area. We take great pride in being known as the ‘Guardians of the Reef’ by ensuring ships navigate the Reef safely. The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority regulates the entire World Heritage Area and all cruise ships engaging in tourist activities require a permit. Although zoning plans restrict or limit the access of vessels to most areas of the reef system, there are a number of compulsory pilotage districts within these zones.
The following compulsory pilotage districts require a pilot licensed by AMSA on board at all times:
Inner Route
The Inner Route is between the Great Barrier Reef and the Queensland coast, stretching for some 1,300 miles (2,000 km) from the Tropic of Capricorn to Torres Strait. All vessels of 70 metres or more in overall length (loaded oil tankers, chemical tankers and liquefied gas carriers irrespective of length) transiting this district are required to use the services of an AMSA licensed pilot between Torres Strait and Cairns. The draft of vessels will determine their boarding ground in Torres Strait (please see Draft Restrictions for more information).Great North East Channel
The Great North East Channel pilotage located in Torres Strait (between Cape York and the Papua New Guinea coast) is around 120 miles between Dalrymple Island and the western approaches of Torres Strait. All vessels 70 metres or more in length (loaded oil tankers, chemical tankers and liquefied gas carriers irrespective of length) are required to use the services of an AMSA licensed pilot. The draft of vessels will determine their boarding ground in Torres Strait (please see Draft Restrictions for more information).Hydrographers Passage
Hydrographers Passage offers a track through the Great Barrier Reef in Central Queensland, linking the ports of Hay Point and Dalrymple Bay as well as Mackay with the Coral Sea. All vessels 70 metres or more in length (loaded oil tankers, chemical tankers and liquefied gas carriers irrespective of length) are required to use the services of a licensed pilot.Whitsunday Passage
All vessels 70 metres or more in length (loaded oil tankers, chemical tankers and liquefied gas carriers irrespective of length) are required to use the services of an AMSA licensed pilot.
