Since 1908, the Crescent River Port Pilots have safely and efficiently guided ships up and down the 106 miles of the Mississippi River between Pilottown and New Orleans. The Crescent Pilots use their knowledge of local waters and port conditions and their experience as professional pilots to move a wide range of vessels ranging from oil tankers to cruise ships.

Approximately 107 pilots belong to the Crescent River Port Pilots’ Association, and their services are essential to the local maritime economy and the state of Louisiana. Working closely with the U.S. Coast Guard and shipping agencies to safely navigate more than 5,300 vessels in excess of a million miles a year and protect the citizens and environment of the state. The Crescent Pilots are also proud to contribute to an industry that brings the global economy and many jobs to Louisiana’s ports.

While our organization dates back nearly a century, we are constantly changing and advancing our technologies and techniques. Today our pilots are on the leading edge of safe and efficient navigation. Not only do the Crescent Pilots support and utilize innovative technology used in the Vessel Traffic System (VTS), they played an active role in its development.