England:Sharpness and Sharpness Channel

From Skipper2Skipper

Advice on navigating the Sharpness Channel

• Keep a listening watch of VHF Channel 12 for VTS information and advice. Avoid unnecessary transmission on this channel.
• Keep clear of the main shipping channel unless it is necessary to cross. If it is necessary to cross, do so in the crossing area, at right angles and as quickly as possible.
• Use the waiting area until the channel is clear to cross.
• Inward bound craft intending to use the 'Inshore Route' should join it at the Avon Buoy.
• Avoid a close quarters situation. Do not approach closer than 500 metres ahead and 200 metres astern or to the side of commercial vessels.
• Be aware that larger vessels require considerable room for themselves and for their attendant tugs to manoeuvre.
• Avoid using VHF Channels 8, 10 and 72. These are used for ship/tug communications.
• Narrow boats should contact the VTS centre for advice on weather, traffic and tidal conditions prior to commencing any passage in the Estuary or River Avon.

Communications Procedures

Traffic control for the area is provided by the Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) Centre located at Avonmouth, call sign ‘Bristol VTS’.

• Inward bound commercial vessels report their ETA Portishead Point to Avonmouth Radio on VHF channel 12 when passing the 'English and Welsh' buoy and 'Welsh Hook' buoy.
• Outward bound commercial vessels report to Avonmouth Radio on VHF Channel 12 at the following positions.
  • Prior to leaving Avonmouth or Portbury Locks.
  • When passing Shirehampton (for vessels leaving River Avon).
  • When passing Lower Shoots Beacon (for vessels leaving Sharpness).
• Small craft in the estuary should maintain a listening watch on VHF Channel 12 for the above information.
• Small craft awaiting an outward lock at Portishead Marina should obtain this information by monitoring VHF Channel 80 and the lock-side public announcement system.