Guiding Ships Safely Across the Upper Great Lakes

The Western Great Lakes Pilots Association (WGLPA) provides pilotage for foreign-flag vessels navigating Lakes Michigan, Huron and Superior and the St. Marys River, collectively known as District 3. WGLPA pilots guide vessels into nearly 60 ports throughout the region, bringing specialized knowledge of Great Lakes waterways and navigation to each transit.

Great Lakes pilots play an important role in the safe and efficient movement of international vessels through the region. A pilot remains aboard every ocean-going vessel throughout its Great Lakes transit, working alongside the vessel’s master and bridge team to safely navigate Great Lakes waterways and ports. U.S. Great Lakes pilots are federally regulated by the U.S. Coast Guard and undergo extensive training before becoming fully qualified.

WGLPA was formed in 1992, continuing a tradition of U.S. pilotage on the upper Great Lakes that dates to the opening of the St. Lawrence Seaway to ocean-going vessels in 1959. Today, the Association’s pilots help protect safe navigation, the marine environment and the communities served by Great Lakes shipping.