Using the port for recreation

1

Avoid sailing in the commercial shipping channels, especially in poor visibility.

Obey Rule 9 of the Collision Regulations (COLREGS) for conduct in narrow channels by keeping to the side of the channel and crossing only when this does not impede the passage of a large vessel that can safely navigate only within the narrow channel.

2

Do not underestimate the speed of ships.

If your boat is slow, allow sufficient time to take effective evasive action in the vicinity of large ships.

3

Be visible.

At night make sure your navigation lights can be seen. If you see the navigation lights of a vessel and you think you have not been seen, get out of the way. Use torches, search lights or a spotlight on sails, or fire a white flare to indicate your position. Carry a radar reflector high on your boat.

4

Be alert.

Look around every so often, especially astern.

5

Keep an extra vigilant watch at night.

Even on a clear night you will have difficulty seeing a big ship approach. You might see it first as a black shadow against a background of shore lights, or as a growing shadow – at that point you are not far apart. Remember that your lights will not be easily spotted from the ship, particularly if seen against shore background lights.

6

Keep your VHF radio tuned to Channel 11.

In an emergency, if you believe you have not been seen or you re unsure of a ship’s intentions, call them on VHF Channels 11 or 16 then shift to a working frequency for intership safety messages.