Sabine Pilots Association

05/14/2026

The Sabine Pilots Association welcomed Congressman Randy Weber for an aerial tour of the Sabine-Neches Waterway this week.

The tour provided an opportunity to highlight the critical role the waterway plays in supporting America’s energy sector, international commerce, and continued economic growth across Southeast Texas.

From LNG exports and refinery operations to ongoing channel improvements and vessel traffic management, the Sabine-Neches Waterway remains one of the nation’s most vital maritime corridors. We appreciate Congressman Weber taking the time to see these operations firsthand and discuss the importance of maintaining safe, efficient, and reliable navigation throughout the region.

Thank you to our pilots, crews, and aviation partners who continue working every day to support the movement of commerce safely and professionally.

05/04/2026

Supporting the next generation of maritime professionals is an investment in the future of our industry.

Proceeds from this event will directly support the SAFSN endowed scholarship at Texas A&M Maritime Academy, helping develop future mariners, pilots, and industry leaders. Funds will also contribute to additional SAFSN initiatives that strengthen and support the maritime community.

The event brought together approximately 220 golfers, sponsors, and volunteers from across the maritime industry a strong reflection of the shared commitment to education, opportunity, and workforce development.

We’re proud to stand alongside organizations like SAFSN in supporting pathways that keep our industry moving forward.

Representing Sabine Pilots, President Todd Reeder, Capt. Wesley Moore

04/28/2026

A major milestone for the Sabine-Neches Waterway and the region we serve.

The departure of the first LNG export cargo from Golden Pass LNG represents more than a single movement. It reflects years of coordination, investment, and an unwavering commitment to safety at every level.

We are proud to play a role in safely guiding vessels through one of the nation’s most critical energy corridors. This is what progress looks like on the waterway measured, precise, and built on trust.

We’re honored to be part of it.

04/27/2026

On April 22, 2026, Golden Pass LNG marked a major milestone with the departure of its first LNG export cargo from Train 1 just 23 days after achieving initial production in March.

The timing underscores the project’s significance. As shifting conditions in the Strait of Hormuz continue to impact more than 10 Bcf/d of global LNG supply, new export capacity plays a critical role in maintaining stability across international energy markets.

Golden Pass is currently the only new U.S. LNG export terminal expected to begin shipments in 2026, positioning this moment as a defining step forward for both domestic production and global distribution.

Representing the Sabine Pilots Association on this transit were Capt. Andrew Swan and Capt. Rhett Sanders continuing a long standing commitment to the safe and efficient movement of vessels along the Sabine-Neches Waterway.

A milestone not just for one facility, but for the broader energy corridor and the people who keep it moving.

04/25/2026

We are very honored to be apart of this milestone for the Sabine-Neches Waterway and the region we serve.

Golden Pass LNG, a joint venture owned by energy giants QatarEnergy and ExxonMobil, has shipped the first cargo of liquefied natural gas (LNG) produced from the first liquefaction train at its facility in Texas.

04/22/2026

We were beyond honored to be in attendance at Ligon For Texas fundraiser representing our association; President Todd Reeder and his wife Victoria Reeder, Vice President Ryan McHaney and his wife Melissa McHaney, and Boat Super Michael Haight and his wife Lindi.

Events like this are a reminder that leadership doesn’t stop at the waterway it extends into the community. The same discipline, accountability, and commitment that guide operations offshore are the same values carried into rooms like this.

An evening spent among individuals who represent Southeast Texas with integrity, both in their work and in their presence.

04/10/2026

This week, the Sabine Pilots Association invested in continued excellence with a Leadership Skills course for our pilot boat crews, led by Capt. Christine Klimkowski, MBA of MITAGS West.

The training brought together our entire boat operations team from Port Captain and Port Engineer to our Watch Captains, Captains, and Deckhands reinforcing leadership, communication, and operational alignment across the fleet.

Maritime Institute of Technology and Graduate Studies is a globally recognized maritime training institution dedicated to advancing the professionalism of mariners, and we’re proud to bring that level of expertise to our crews.

At Sabine Pilots, safe navigation is built through continuous training and strong leadership at every level.

Safe navigation. Every vessel. Every time.

Pictured: Jake Oldham, Colton Potter, Michael Deemy, Elizandro Gomez, Alex Sweeney, Kolby Hearn, Trey Keel, Taylor Rutherford, Curtis Benoit, Leslie Tucker, David Seymour, Tanner Stewart, Justin Johnson, Daniel McCown, Willie McMaster, Dylan Simmons.

03/16/2026

Great day on the Sabine-Neches Waterway hosting regional leaders for an operational briefing and tour with the Sabine Pilots.

Guests included Nederland Mayor Jeff Darby, Jefferson County Commissioner Cary Erickson, SPHR, Roxanne Acosta-Hellberg, Dylan Richardson, Haley Coleman, Benny Coleman, and Chris Lacy.

Sabine Pilots leadership shared insight into the vital role harbor pilots play guiding vessels safely through one of the most important energy corridors in the United States. The Sabine-Neches Waterway is currently the third-largest waterway in the country by tonnage and continues to see significant growth driven by expanding LNG exports and energy infrastructure along the Gulf Coast.

Proud to showcase the work that keeps the Sabine-Neches Waterway moving safely and efficiently.

03/06/2026

As Spring Break approaches, increased recreational activity is anticipated along the Sabine-Neches Waterway. The Sabine Pilots respectfully encourage all boaters, jet ski operators, anglers, and waterfront visitors to remain vigilant and prioritize safety while enjoying the water.

The Sabine-Neches Waterway is an active commercial shipping channel with deep-draft vessels, tug and barge traffic, and pilot boats operating daily. These vessels have limited maneuverability, restricted visibility, and require significant distance to slow or stop safely.

For the safety of all waterway users, we remind recreational boaters to:
• Maintain a safe distance from large commercial vessels
• Avoid crossing directly ahead of ships or tow traffic
• Monitor VHF Channels 13 and 16 when possible
• Be mindful of strong currents and vessel wake zones
• Follow all posted navigation rules and safety regulations

The safety of everyone on the water remains our highest priority. Increased awareness, caution, and courtesy among all waterway users help ensure a safe and enjoyable Spring Break for the entire community.

QR codes linking to our Waterway Safety Video have been placed at the following public boat ramps:
Orange
Bridge City
Beaumont – Colliers Ferry Park
Port Neches Park
GIWW Bridge Ramp
Pleasure Island Causeway Boat Ramp
Sabine Pass Public Ramp
Sabine Pass Battleground Park

We encourage all visitors to take a moment to view the video and share it with others.

https://www.sabinepilots.com/waterwaysafety

03/05/2026

Captain Hilton and his wife Chelsea joined President Captain Todd Reeder at Gator Country in support of the incredible work being done by the Beaumont Seafarers’ Center.

The Seafarers’ Center serves as a true home away from home for thousands of international mariners who pass through our port each year providing transportation, hospitality, and a welcoming place to rest while they are far from their families.

Events like the annual crawfish boil help support this mission and bring together the maritime community that keeps the Sabine-Neches Waterway moving.

We’re always proud to support the people who support the mariners serving our ports.