Columbia River Bar Pilots
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1846 |
| Headquarters | , U.S. |
| Services | Maritime pilotage |
| Website | www |
The Columbia River Bar Pilots is a maritime pilotage firm headquartered in Astoria, Oregon, United States. The company provides expert navigation services for vessels traversing the Columbia Bar, a perilous waterway located at the entrance of the Columbia River between the states of Oregon and Washington.
History
This entity traces its origins to 1846 when the Oregon Provisional Legislature founded what evolved into the Oregon Board of Pilot Commissioners. Among the earliest licensed pilots was George Flavel, who, along with his partners, dominated piloting activities on the Columbia Bar and amassed considerable fortune.
Operations
Referred to as the "Graveyard of the Pacific", the Columbia Bar is a vital maritime corridor at the mouth of the Columbia River with substantial commercial vessel traffic. The use of a Columbia River Bar Pilot is mandatory for all foreign trading ships to ensure safe passage. Annually, the company manages approximately 3,600 vessel movements.
Operating under the oversight of the Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots, Columbia River Bar Pilots exclusively serve the Columbia Bar area near Astoria. Navigation responsibilities beyond this region are managed by the Columbia River Pilots, who are based in Portland, Oregon.