How would one become a bar pilot? Tugboat captain?

Question

It looks like a great job but I can't find much info on how one works his way up to becoming a bar pilot. And what about tugboad captain? Is it a similar route?

Answer 1

The first thing is you must get a job on one of those boats.

Answer 2

Apprenticeship via one of those boat types or military service with officer of the deck qualifications.

Answer 3

To become a Bar pilot, or Tug Capt, in the U.S. you first need to have a valid U.S. Coast Guard License, of proper tonnage. The minimum requirement for Tugs is a Master of towing vessel license, but most companies want you to have  a 1600gt masters as well.  Bar Pilots  generally want an Unlimited Masters license with at least five years as master, although some associations are taking fresh Third Mates on as apprentices. Contrary to popular belief, military service is not the best way to become a merchant officer, as the coast guard doesn't recognize all of the time spent at sea, especially if you weren't part of the deck crew or navigation watch. To obtain the license, the best way is to apply and attend any one of various Maritime academies throughout the United states. These institutions will, upon graduation, give you everything you need to go to sea. Another option is to contact the nearest Coast Guard Regional Exam Center(REC), and get an application for an Ordinary Seamans Document(O/S,MMD). Fill out the application , and submit it with a drug test, and completed coastguard physical. You then are evaluated for the rating, pay the fee, and receive your document. this will allow you to sail as an ordinary on merchant vessels, accruing sea time and experience to slowly upgrade your rating, by examinations at the REC, to an officer. With the officers license in hand, and with training, you may become a Pilot, or Tug Master.

Answer 4

apprentice for Morgan or Mcalister  in NYC .