VRCA – Safety of navigation is our priority

One of VRCA’s principal functions is to exercise general direction and control of the movement of vessels. The safety of all vessels in port waters is a priority

• There are about 1,000 channel transits by large ships every year
• Large vessels:-
   - must keep within the marked channels or anchorages
   - they have right of way in the channels
   - they cannot steer if they slow down too much
   - they may not be able to avoid you
• Small recreational craft must take care in port waters
• Help us to keep everybody safe
• Keep clear of big ships
• Keep a lookout - you may not hear the approach of a vessel over the noise of your engine or the noise of wind and waves
• Make sure you show appropriate lights at night
• After a ship passes there will be waves that may catch you unawares and swamp or capsize your boat if you are not prepared

If an approaching big ship is blowing its whistle it means:

‘GET OUT OF THE WAY’

Do not anchor in the channels – it’s illegal
Please help us to keep navigation in the channels and port waters safe for all vessels