1. General information on the compulsory pilotage area

For navigating from Chacao Channel to Cape Horn (see Figure 1: General chart of the Compulsory Pilotage Area) there are two navigation routes, one oceanic, which does not require further explanation, and the other one through channels and inland waters. The channel route offers different alternatives and is highly recommended in case of bad weather conditions, which are common in this area. Likewise, it gives the opportunity to see places of unique natural beauty, such as glaciers, waterfalls, inlets, and to appreciate the existing marine flora and fauna. 

All routes through Chilean channels, straits and fjords are signaled; they present no major difficulties for navigation and have updated nautical charts, both paper and electronic. The Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service of the Chilean Navy, www.shoa.cl, a body that is part of the International Maritime Organization, edits and updates national charts used in the navigation of Chilean channels, straits and fjords. 

With the purpose of providing safety to navigation and coordinating vessel traffic, the National Maritime Authority has established transit provisions for the crossing of certain channels, schedules and general recommendations (see A.- PROVISIONS, REGULATIONS AND GENERAL INFORMATION ON PILOTAGE IN CHILE. 9. Operational information for Masters; b) Special restrictions for the following channels, straits and narrows). In addition to the above restrictions, the Ancud Transfer Zone has the following restriction for the embarkation and disembarkation of pilots: 

 There are vessels that shall carry out pilot transfer maneuvers in the Laitec area because their special maneuverability characteristics are different from any other type of vessel, such as large deadwork exposed to the wind and their bottom exposed to the current, make them unsuitable for navigation in winding channels with intense currents, such as Chacao Channel and surrounding areas.