Welcome to EMPA pilots

EMPA is a professional, non-profit organization, created in Antwerp in 1963 by pilots of what was then called the European Community.

Nowadays EMPA represents about 4.500 maritime pilots from 18 European Union member countries, and 6 neighbouring countries: Georgia, Montenegro, Norway, Turkey, Ukraine and the United Kingdom. Regrouping member countries' associations of maritime pilots from the Baltic Sea, the North Sea, the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean and the Black Sea.

8th APIBARRA Conference – 30 Years : Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow, What Future?

A celebration of a historic milestone for the Portuguese pilotage service!!!

On November 19, 2025, APIBARRA celebrated three decades of history with the 8th Conference, held at the Infante D. Henrique Auditorium, Port of Leixões (APDL). Under the theme “Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow, What Future?”

EMPA attending NEDSPA Meeting 6th November 2025

The European Maritime Pilots’ Association (EMPA) participated in the latest NEDSPA (North European Deep-Sea Pilots Association) meeting, held in Hull (UK), bringing together representatives from across Europe

Upcoming events

Tuesday 14-04-2026

Wednesday 15-04-2026

SAVE THE DATE : EMPA 60th General meeting - Ghent Belgium

We are delighted to share that the 60th General Meeting will take place from 14-15th April 2026 in Ghent, Belgium.

Join us as we celebrate this milestone edition with inspiring presentations, valuable networking opportunities, and a look ahead at the future!

It's an unmissable opportunity to share knowledge and strengthen connections.

more details and registration will follow soon, but for now, make sure to mark your calendars!

More info / Register

4500 pilots

24 countries

EUROPEAN MARITIME PILOTS' ASSOCIATION

EMPA

60th General meeting