Marine Pilot Familiarization Program

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The Pacific Pilotage Authority is accepting expressions of interest from qualified mariners who wish to participate in a marine pilot familiarization program in preparation for the examination to become a BC Coast or Fraser River pilot. The program will run as follows:

•   Fraser River program: January 2027 – June 2027
•   BC coast program: January 2027 – January 2029

For certification and sea-time requirements please consult the General Pilotage Regulations.

Note that applicants must be: 
•   Canadian citizens or Permanent Residents
•   willing to obtain a Police Information Check and to undergo a medical examination

Qualified applicants should submit a written request for an application package prior to 1530 hrs on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, by email to famprogram@ppa.gc.ca or by post to: 

Familiarization 
Pacific Pilotage Authority 
1000 – 1130 West Pender Street 
Vancouver, BC V6E 4A4

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