Special Harbor, Pilot and Customs Rule

Question 1

Puget Sound Pilots

Answer 1

Pilotage is compulsory for all vessels except those under enrollment or engaged exclusively in the coasting trade on the west coast of the continental United States (including Alaska) and/or British Columbia. Pilots monitor VHF 13 + 14 and can also be reached via Marine Exchange on VHF 20.

Question 2

Port Townsend

Answer 2

Port Townsend is customs port of entry where immigration, quarantine, customs and agricultural regulations are enforced.

Question 3

72 COLREGS

Answer 3

Navigational Rules, apply and are enforced by the USCG.

Question 4

High Tide Cautions

Answer 4

Mariners should be cautious of floating logs or dead heads. Dangers increase during freshets, after storms and unusually high tides. Slow for log tows in-order to prevent wake damage.

Question 5

Ferries Deviations

Answer 5

Mariners are cautioned that the WS Ferries may deviate from the published standard routes due to inclement weather, traffic conditions, navigational hazards or other emergency conditions.

Question 6

Port Townsend Canal Regulations

Answer 6

5kt speed limit.
Sound 1 long, 1 short, prior to entry.
No passing, anchoring, or mooring.
No tows over 200’.
No delays of traffic.

Question 7

Burner Pt

Answer 7

At the entrance to Port Ludlow, 5kt speed limit S of a line between from Burner Pt. to the E shore.

Question 8

Tugs

Answer 8

Tugs are not available in Port Townsend, but may be obtained with advance notice from Port Angeles, Everett or Seattle up to 5,000.

Question 9

Townsend papermill

Answer 9

A slight current may be encountered, and the use of an anchor is recommended in docking.