About EMPA
Uniting Europe’s maritime pilots since 1963 to advance safety and professionalism across our waters.
Founded in Antwerp in 1963 by pilots of the European Economic Community, EMPA has grown to represent 4,500 maritime pilots from 18 EU member countries and six neighboring nations: Georgia, Montenegro, Norway, Turkey, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom.
Our members serve across five seas—Baltic, North Sea, Atlantic, Mediterranean, and Black Sea—united by a shared commitment to maritime excellence and safety
The essential role of maritime pilots
Pilotage is an essential safety service that protects lives, the marine environment and port infrastructure while ensuring the safe and efficient movement of ships. Maritime pilots provide independent local expertise and ship-handling advice to masters navigating complex port approaches, restricted waters and busy traffic areas.
Pilotage is a cornerstone of maritime risk management. Pilots board ships during the most critical phase of every voyage, bringing local knowledge and operational experience that no master—regardless of skill or experience—can possess for every port. Their expertise ensures safer navigation, protects the environment and supports the resilience of global maritime trade.
Our mission and beliefs
Our principal objectives
To enhance the safety and efficiency of maritime pilotage
To promote excellence in pilot training and professional competence
To support innovation and digital transformation in pilotage
To develop harmonised professional standards and best practices
To strengthen cooperation with European and international institutions
To support the development of European maritime policies through technical expertise
To foster collaboration across the maritime community
