Pilot Boat Charters

Pilot Boat Requirements

Swimmers are responsible for hiring their own escort boats and pilots. Please keep in mind:​

• You must have your swim date and boat charter confirmed before submitting your swim application package.
• The swimmer and the pilot boat agreement is separate from the application to sanction a swim. MBSA is NOT directly involved in the agreement between a swimmer and pilot boat charter.​
• When selecting a boat, take into consideration where on the boat and how food will be prepared (for both swimmer and crew). 
• If you have any questions regarding pilot boat charters, please contact MBSA.

1. Boats must have sufficient capacity to accommodate the swimmer, crew and paddlers, and observer(s). Any sanctioned swim that may exceed 12 hours, must include space for two MBSA Observers.​
2. For any sanctioned swim exceeding 5 hours, a working head (toilet) is required.
3. All boats must have an adequate swim ladder.
4. All boats must be equipped with a reliable system for safely extracting an incapacitated swimmer from the water.
5. Boats must be equipped with reliable navigation equipment and meet all USCG requirements for sailing at night and in fog. 

Pilot Boat Charters

Contact MBSA for pilot recommendations.