Please note, the pilot station for Matagorda Bay is not continuously manned.
Arriving:
The Pilot Station and Pilot Boats monitor VHF channels 16 and 10 US up to one hour prior to arrival.
If the pilot boat or pilot station cannot be reached by VHF, please contact the Point Comfort Control Tower on VHF CH 16 or 07A
Pilot Boats:
The Pilot Boat "Karankawa" is 50' long, has a black hull, black floatation collar and white superstructure.
The Word "PILOT" is printed in large red letters on each side of the superstructure.
The Pilot Boat "Mata-Pilot" is 27 feet long, with an orange floatation collar and white superstructure.
The Word "PILOT" is printed in large orange letters on each side of the superstructure.
Instructions:
The pilot boat or pilot station will give instructions to arriving vessels for:
- Pilot Ladder Height
- Speed and Course
- Boarding Location
Masters:
Vessels should not approach any closer than two miles from the "MB" Buoy unless otherwise instructed by the pilots.
STRONG cross currents, a narrow entrance and shallow water will place your vessel in danger.
