Entering Portsmouth harbour

Tim M · 27 May 2004, 12:47

My trip to the IoW is only days away now, and I'm trying to organise my "itinery". I would very much like to cruise into Portsmouth harbour at some point. Having looked at the port authority website, it says all boats entering the harbour must call the harbour master for authorisation on the VHF. I don't have a VHF, but am assuming I could call him on the phone.

Do they actually expect you to call, or can you just cruise in (like at my local harbour!). Is there anything else I should be aware of like needing a floating warning triangle or something!

timw · 27 May 2004, 12:52

I've been into Portsmouth loads of times, and the only time I beleive you need to call for permission is if you cross the harbour from one side to the other over the shipping lanes, i.e. if your're going into Gunwharf Quay for example.

Things might have changed this year though, or I might have been entering illegally for the past few years.

DJL · 27 May 2004, 12:58

You must stay on the western side of the channel all the way up to ballast buoy. If you then want to cross the channel you must call QHM and ask permission. I'm sure a phone call would be fine.

I would however highly recommend getting a VHF radio..

Richard B · 27 May 2004, 13:03

Quote:

Originally Posted by timw

the only time I beleive you need to call for permission is if you cross the harbour from one side to the other over the shipping lanes, i.e. if your're going into Gunwharf Quay for example.

Correct.
Keep well over to the port side on entry (you can go very close to the piles) - single file if there are multiple vessels entering. 10kts speed limit. If your destination is Gunwharf or Camber, proceed straight ahead to Ballast buoy (large red port marker) and request permission to cross from the QHM on VHF ch11. Have a look at our web site... go to "Destinations" in the left-hand frame and click on "Portsmouth". There are some links for the QHM and you'll probably find a telephone number on their site.

Ribald · 27 May 2004, 13:36

As every one has said above the requirement is to call on VHF when crossing. Only large vessels need to call when entering. I would suggest (for your own peace of mind if nothing else) that you beg, borrow or steal a H/H VHF (and, of course, the relevant paperwork

).

If you can't get hold of one have a look out for the Harbour Patrol launch and request that he escorts you across or cross in company with another vessel that has a VHF.

See: http://www.qhmportsmouth.com/index.p...&art=49&seld=1

Also, don't get too close to the navy boats or you will find a very large plod boat on your case.

Jon Brooks · 27 May 2004, 15:11

I think (IMHO) that a minimum of of H/H VHF was essential if you considering entering such a busy naval port.

Although you may have you phone how do the other vessels contact you?
They will not all have your number.

At least with a radio you are contactable by everyone there.

IMHO it would be fool hardy to enter without.

Kind regards

p.s. that not just cos we make radio either

taitharris · 27 May 2004, 15:18

Can I strongly recommend that you invest in a good almanac (if you haven't already done so) from the chandler's. In this you will find the rules of entry to any port as well as tons of other useful information. Ideal for pre trip research, or even on the boat when you suddenly wish to enter a new harbour upon a whim, or when events require that you seek entry to an unfamiliar place.

I have made many passages across Irish Sea, North Sea blah, blah blah and would not be without. Sorry to sound a bit Salty Old Sea Dog.

John Kennett · 27 May 2004, 15:51

Tim

Although it would be best to have a VHF, I don't think that you need to be too concerned. I certainly wouldn't let it put you off visiting Portsmouth.

There has been a fair bit of discussion about the Portsmouth Harbour Entrance regulations -- have a look http://www.rib.net/forum/showthread.php?t=1382

Read the Notice to Mariners at http://www.qhmportsmouth.com./index....&art=49&seld=1 and make sure you understand where to go

If you want to cross to the Camber or Gunwharf then you can phone the QHM's office on 023 9272 3124 for permission. Tom Herman, the QHM himself, has posted here a few times and is very approachable. He really seems to want to make things work for everyone.

Enjoy!

John

The Jackeens · 27 May 2004, 16:16

And if you get it wrong...

they come over & shout at you

Missus

Robert1 · 27 May 2004, 16:37

Remeber to round Ballast Buoy on entry to Portsmouth less face an argument with either a police boat or a cross-channel ferry! Also, stick to the limit of 10Kts, I have seen the police boats stop speeders and I'm not sure, but I think the penalty is extortionate, something like £10,000. Also, there is a real police presence in Portsmouth harbour now compared to a year or so ago due to the hightened terrorist threat so the regulations are enforced! Something also to bear in mind is that the speed limit applies not only to the harbour but a certain distance offshore aswell...best check that out. Also, watch out for the green and white Gosport ferries that regularly cross the harbour as they can surprise sometimes! Having said all that, Portsmouth is brilliant...the warships are simply amazing. Have fun!

Mark Halliday · 27 May 2004, 16:47

Better tell Suzuki Pete that. And the distance off rules. I think he may have been lucky on the St Paddys day bash. (apart from the prop

)

Pete7 · 27 May 2004, 16:51

Quote:

Originally Posted by Robert1

Also, there is a real police presence in Portsmouth harbour now compared to a year or so ago due to the hightened terrorist threat so the regulations are enforced!

Yes and we even have one amongst us

seems he has turned to the dark side. Pulled me for an out of date VHF licence 25 miles off shore! shares the same first name as me.

Pete

tim griffin · 27 May 2004, 17:31

Hi Tim
i thought you were going to do a vhf course!
you should have a minimum of a handheld with you, do not rely on the mobile.
its only recomended you have vhf for the intermediate but i think it should be for the level 2 as its the course everyone does for ICC bit slack really of the RYA but education not legislation is the ethos.it would be interesting to see how many like you do not have vhf radio's with them. when they venture out
. Its a major part of what should be your safety kit and we have to teach about how to make a mayday in pb2 so if you are not doing a course at least buy a handheld for emergency use.
regards tim

Biggles · 27 May 2004, 17:39

Tim

I'm down on the Solent from Friday for a week. If you fancy some company can you PM me your mobile number. The weekend doesn't look to hot at the moment, but weather forecasts aren't 100 %.

If you see a small white RIB give me a wave.

Nick R

Tim M · 27 May 2004, 21:02

Thanks Biggles, will do (nice to be in the company of another small RIB!).

I was indeed going to do the VHF course (even booked a local one, only to be told there weren't enough people doing it), but all the local ones seem to be either closed for the summer, or booked up. It kind of got put back with all the other things I had going on (not namly A-levels!). Its something I will do however in the next little while - it seems a VHF is invaluble when going on the sea.

However, I don't have a licence, so what do I do?!!?? I could buy a H/H VHF for my trip, but with no licence is it suicide actually using it (like to call the harbour master). I might just get one in case I get in real trouble and need to call for help.

Hightower · 27 May 2004, 21:36

Just a note! If you were planning a shopping trip to Gunwarfs, don't just turn up, I think they like you to book the day before or certainly in advance.

Also I have noticed that some smaller craft that slip from Camber or Gunwarf do hug the Eastern side of the channel, surly this is a no-no....

tim griffin · 27 May 2004, 22:19

Quote:

Originally Posted by

However, I don't have a licence, so what do I do?!!?? I could buy a H/H VHF for my trip, but with no licence is it suicide actually using it (like to call the harbour master). I might just get one in case I get in [U

real[/U] trouble and need to call for help.

TIM IF YOU WENT TO SEA AND BROKE DOWN WITHOUT A MEANS OF SUMMONING ASSISTANCE , NOW THAT WOULD BE SUICIDE , BETTER TO BE FINED THAN DEAD MATE
REGARDS TIM
www.griffmarineservices.co.uk

The Jackeens · 27 May 2004, 22:24

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mark Halliday

Better tell Suzuki Pete that. And the distance off rules. I think he may have been lucky on the St Paddys day bash. (apart from the prop

)

Suzuki drove very responsibly that day (apart from turning too quickly when he launched at Haslar/ground the prop)

Missus

Richard B · 27 May 2004, 22:57

Quote:

Originally Posted by The Jackeens

Suzuki drove very responsibly that day

Suzuki Pete always drives responsibly!

(We like Suzuki Pete!! [and Troy of course])

Mark Halliday · 27 May 2004, 23:02

Quote:

Originally Posted by Richard B

Suzuki Pete always drives responsibly!

(We like Suzuki Pete!! [and Troy of course])

Sorry, can't find the thread to back this up. Red blob me.
I shall have to come out from behind the screen and meet you guys soon.
Now 3 weeks into non delivery of new axel, at this rate I will miss RIBex