Thursday 4 October 2012

Navigating Tidal Waters


There are sections of the UK inland waterways systems which to reach you have to travel on tidal waterways. For some the thought of venturing onto a river never mind a tidal river sends them into a blind panic. But with a little bit of planning and a lot of common sense there is no reason why traversing tidal waters shouldn’t be a pleasant experience.

There are a number of ways in which you can plan your journey and ensure you have a safe passage.

Know your route:
Planning your journey in advance of the actual trip will greatly improve your enjoyment of the trip. Know your tide times, know the tide heights and how these correspond to the waters you are travelling on, plan any safe havens you can reach should the weather turn foul or should you experience any mechanical failures. Make sure that you are aware of any local byelaws applicable to the waters on which you are to travel. The Canal and Rivers Trust are not responsible for all tidal rivers, for example the tidal Trent below Gainsborough becomes the jurisdiction of Associated British Ports who have their own set of byelaws and regulations based around the Colregs. Makes sure you are aware of your responsibilities.
Know your boat:

When navigating tidal waterways it is even more important to know that your boat is in good working order and is reliable. If you are in any doubt as to the mechanical or structural condition of your boat don’t set off on your journey.  Make sure your boat is serviced, has a full fuel tank and is water tight. You should expect the conditions to be far worse than on non tidal waters and canals. Even a slight wind over tide situation can create decent waves. Make sure your boat is suitable to take these. Block up vents and door gaps if necessary and ensure that any engine bay vents are well above the water level. Also ensure that your bilge pump is operative to deal with any water that may enter the boat. You will also need to carry and anchor and suitable length of chain/rope, make sure that this is suitable for the required job, attached to the boat and in an accessible place in case of emergency.
Know your limits:

It is vital that you understand the limits of what you and your boat are capable of. The major tidal stretches of water commonly traversed by river and canal craft are in the main classified as Category C waterways. It will not be uncommon to see wave heights approaching 0.5m on even a calm day with the wind over the tide. In more severe weather larger waves will be encountered. It is of extreme importance that you know what your boat is capable of handling and also that you know how to handle these conditions.  Keep a close eye on the weather and if it looks set to worsen postpone your journey until the weather is more suitable for your transit and your capabilities.
Know your responsibilities:

On the larger tidal waterways commercial craft are still very much the main users of the waters. Leisure craft are welcomed but must behave in a sensible and responsible manner. It is your responsibility to ensure that you, your boat and your crew are fit for the job in hand. Make sure you are aware of the relevant sound and light signals and keep at the very least a listening watch on the relevant VHF channels to keep informed of vessel movements in the area.

With all of this in mind there is no reason why you shouldn’t enjoy cruising on tidal waterways. They are the gateway to new and varied cruising grounds. Tidal waterways are unlike anything you will experience on the canals or non tidal rivers and although they should be treated with respect they should also be enjoyed.

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