Port Information Guide

B

BALLAST OPERATIONS

1. The PLA does not have any specific restrictions on ballast water operations in the Port of London. Questions regarding ballast water operations should be directed to the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) via the vessel’s agents.
2. Any vessels wishing to undertake ballast operations should adhere to UK and International Regulations, plus any restrictions/requirements of the berth owner/operator. 

BERTHS

1. For a list of commercial berths and terminals on the Tidal Thames visit: pla.co.uk/berths-terminals
2. See also section NAABSA BERTHS.

BRIDGES

1. For a full list of clearance heights for bridges crossing the river and the various creeks along the Tidal Thames visit: pla.co.uk/thames-bridge-heights

(1.1) The clearance height of the main navigational arch for each bridge is referenced to the local Mean High Water Springs (MHWS) tidal level and is also included in the Chart notes and by the bridge location on PLA published charts. See below example extracts (Figure 1 and 2) taken from PLA Chart 316:

 

2. ARCHES CLOSED TO NAVIGATION
Arches on Thames bridges may be closed for various reasons from time to time. As per the PLA General Directions (General Direction 17.1 (e)), No vessel is to transit through a bridge arch which is closed to Navigation. Arches closed to navigation will be marked in accordance with the Thames Byelaws 2012:

1. by day, three red discs 0.6 metres in diameter at the points of an equilateral triangle with the apex downwards and the base horizontal;
2. by night, three red lights in similar positions to the discs displayed by day.

3. Arches closed/open/open to specific vessels may also be marked by the use of smart signals, as detailed below:

4. SIGNAGE AND LIGHTING ON ARCHES DURING MAINTENANCE OR CONSTRUCTION WORKS
During maintenance and construction works other appropriate signage and lighting as agreed by the Harbour Master may be displayed on or around bridge arches. The characteristics of these will be communicated in a Notice to Mariners as appropriate.

5. BRIDGE TRANSITS WITH SPECIAL PROCEDURES 
As per the PLA General Directions (General Direction 28), vessels wishing to transit the following bridges must follow the procedures as described below:

5.1 Tower Bridge 
Vessels with an air draft of 9 metres or more wishing to transit Tower Bridge may request a bridge lift at least 24 hours in advance, as described on the Tower Bridge website. Vessels intending to transit Tower Bridge which have arranged for the bascules of the bridge to be raised must:

1. at Crayfordness inward-bound, or when departing a berth west of Crayfordness, notify London VTS of:
   1. a confirmed ETA for Tower Bridge; and
   2. the place at which the Vessel can safely abort;
2. establish communications with Tower Bridge control 30 minutes before their ETA for Tower Bridge;
3. not transit beyond their declared abort point until confirmation has been received from Tower Bridge Control that the bridge bascules will be raised in good time.

5.2 Deptford Creek Bridges
The bridges are able to open to river traffic 24 hours a day, every day of the year, but operation is based upon an advance notice system as the bridges are not staffed continuously. Vessels wishing to transit the Deptford Creek bridges must contact the bridges Controller on (+44) (0) 208 291 4561 at least 12 hours in advance, and by midday on a Friday or any other workday immediately preceding a public holiday for any opening required over a weekend or during a public holiday period. 

5.3 Bow Creek – Leamouth/Canning Town footbridge
Vessels with an air draft of greater than 4.9m will advise London VTS on VHF Channel 14 or by telephone: (+44) (0) 203 260 7711 of a requirement for the bridge to be raised, giving an estimated time of arrival (ETA) at the bridge with a minimum notice period of 60 minutes whereby it will be ensured that no alarms are activated regarding operation of the bridge. If there are any issues likely to impact on the bridge operation these are to be informed to London VTS at this stage and confirmed as resolved at the 15 min confirmation communication exchange. 15 minutes before arrival at the bridge the vessel will confirm its ETA to London VTS.

5.4 Hammersmith Bridge
As part of the ongoing stabilisation and repair works at Hammersmith bridge, control lights have been installed either side of the bridge. The bridge control lights will display one of two signals: a green arrow or a red cross. (see 2.1 under the Bridges section for the meaning of these signals).

5.4.1 In the event of a bridge closure, an exclusion zone of 15 metres upriver and downriver of the bridge will be implemented. Mariners are advised that there is no set time duration of a closure as engineers investigate the cause of the alarm. All mariners are advised to have an abort and contingency plan available for a closure which may last longer than the tidal window available.

BUNKERING OPERATIONS

1. As per the PLA General Directions (GD9), a Bunker Vessel, or any Vessel receiving bunkers pumped from a shore side facility or road tanker, must notify London VTS of the type of bunkers being transferred, and report to London VTS immediately before, and on completion of, Bunkering. Masters of vessels are reminded that bunkering operations within the Port of London are also subject to the following conditions:

2. NOTIFICATION AND REPORTING
The Master of a vessel of more than 50gt (other than one which normally navigates solely within the limits of the Port of London) intending to receive bunkers, shall give notification in writing or by VHF radio to London VTS not less than 2 hours in advance of the intention to bunker. The notification should state:

1. the location the bunkering will take place;
2. the type of bunker oil to be transhipped; and
3. the expected time that bunkering will commence.

Additionally, Masters of all such vessels shall also report by VHF to London VTS immediately before bunkering is about to commence, and on completion of bunkering.

3. CHECKLISTS
The Masters of all vessels of more than 50gt intending to receive bunkers, shall complete a bunker checklist in conjunction with the supplying party, with all questions answered accurately.

4. PRECAUTIONS TO BE TAKEN BY ALL RECEIVING VESSELS
The Master of all vessels receiving bunkers shall ensure that:

1. scuppers are firmly closed;
2. vessel is securely moored or safely at anchor;
3. any special instructions issued by the Harbour Master have been complied with;
4. bunker pipes which are not in use are effectively blanked;
5. bunker hoses have sufficient play and are adequately supported;
6. bunker hose connections have been provided with a good seal;
7. there is a well-tightened bolt in every bolt hole in the bunker hose connection flanges;
8. there is a sufficiently large overflow container under the bunker hose connection(s);
9. cargo-handling or other operations in progress will not hazard the bunker operations or vice-versa; and
10. there is an agreed communication system established between the vessel receiving bunkers and bunkering barge.

5. PRECAUTIONS TO BE TAKEN BY, SUPPLYING VESSEL, ROAD TANKER OR TERMINAL
The Master of a bunker barge, the driver of a road tanker or a terminal providing bunkers, is not to begin bunkering unless it has been ensured that:

1. scuppers are firmly closed;
2. the bunkering vessel is securely moored;
3. any special instructions issued by the Harbour Master have been complied with;
4. the bunker hoses are properly maintained and in good condition.

6. BUNKER VESSELS
Vessels which are both Intra-port Vessels and Bunker Vessels must notify London VTS of the type and amount of bunker cargo they are carrying aboard prior to every instance of getting Underway.

7. REPORTING OF OIL SPILLS
The master of any Vessel involved in an oil spill must immediately report to London VTS. Information to be reported includes reporting location, type of oil, approximate quantity, and action taken to limit and control the spill.

8. BUNKERING OPERATIONS AT ANCHORAGES INCLUDING TONGUE ANCHORAGE
Bunkering at Anchorages, including those outside Port Limits but within the London VTS Area (Tongue Anchorage), may only be conducted by vessels/companies which have been approved by the Harbourmaster. Other organisations wishing to carry out bunkering operations outside of port limits but within the VTS Area should contact the Harbourmaster ([email protected]). Bunkering in the Margate Road anchorage is not permitted.

9. All vessels intending to enter the London VTS area, which are to be involved in ship-to-ship bunkering operations, shall provide standard pre-arrival and departure notifications via the PISCES system. Vessels carrying dangerous or polluting goods are required to declare them in advance of their arrival and departure.

10. In addition to the standard VTS reporting requirements, not less than 2 hours before bunkering commences, vessels intending to receive bunkers in Anchorages must notify London VTS of their intention to bunker and provide the following information in that notification:

1. The location the bunkering will take place
2. The type and quantity of bunkers to be received
3. The expected time that bunkering will commence

11. Vessels must report to London VTS before the commencement of bunkering operations and give positive confirmation to VTS that their bunker checklists have been completed. Vessels must not commence bunkering operations without the permission of London VTS. Vessels must report to London VTS on completion of bunkering operations detailing the exact type and quantity of bunkers.

12. Additional Requirements
Bunkering operations must not commence or must be suspended if the local weather conditions exceed Beaufort Force 6, sea / swell heights in excess of 2m, and constant winds exceeding 27 knots. However, London VTS or the Master of the bunkering vessel may direct that bunkering operations be suspended in less adverse conditions if deemed necessary. All vessels anchored for the purpose of bunkering are required to have their main engines available at immediate notice. In addition, they are required to exhibit code flag ‘Bravo’ by day and an all-round red light by night. Whilst bunkering operations are in progress a 100m domain intrusion zone will be established around the vessel, which will be monitored by London VTS and by the vessel taking bunkers.

13. For a list of bunker suppliers operating in the Port of London click here.

D

       DANGEROUS SUBSTANCES IN BULK

1.    For rules and regulations covering the transport of dangerous substances in bulk within the Port of London, visit our website: pla.co.uk/dangerous-substances-in-bulk-byelaws

2.    See also section GENERAL DIRECTIONS FOR NAVIGATION.

       DIVING

1.    The Port of London Authority employs commercially qualified divers who are in demand for many different tasks. For more information visit: pla.co.uk/marine-services

2.    Permission to Dive
Thames Byelaw 20 requires diving contractors to obtain permission from the Harbour Master prior to undertaking any diving activity in the Thames. To obtain permission, the diving supervisor is required to fill in and submit the diving permit to work form, together with copies of documents stated in the checklist. These documents shall be submitted to the Harbour Master: [email protected] with at least 2 working days’ notice. Further details are available on our website: pla.co.uk/commercial-diving

3.    Depending on the location of the proposed diving operations, a Notice to Mariners and Speed Reduction may be required. See section NOTICES TO MARINERS and SPEED REDUCTIONS.

4.    Vessels involved in Diving Operations
Thames Byelaw 33, in addition to the signals required by Rule 27(d) or (e) of the International Collision Regulations, requires a vessel supporting any diving activity permitted by the harbour master under byelaw 20 to:
a)    by night, exhibit conspicuously an illuminated rigid replica of the International Code Flag “A’ not less than 1 metre in height; and
b)    by day, exhibit conspicuously a red flag not less than 1 metre square in a position as close as possible to the diver’s point of entry into the water.

       DRAUGHT CALCULATIONS

1.    The water density of the Thames varies between berths and throughout the river. Density measurements also vary at different times of the day and year, and are significantly affected by local variations in salinity, temperature and by the weather. 

2.    Information regarding observed water density readings is available at: pla.co.uk/water-density-readings. These are provided to serve as a guide only for water densities that may be encountered on the Thames. The PLA accepts no responsibility as to their accuracy. It is recommended that for density values to be used for draught or freshwater allowance calculations, that in situ measurements are taken at the location of the vessel or terminal.

3.    It is the Master’s responsibility to ensure they are aware of these variations and to submit their vessel’s actual deepest draught, taking into account water density.

4.    Agents, berth and ship operators are reminded of the importance of supplying the correct vessel draught at the time of ordering a Pilot via PISCES. Accurate detail is critical and where this information is incorrectly provided, or frequently changes, there is an increased likelihood of a delay in the provision of a pilot. 

5.    In the event of any change in draught, agents, berth and ship operators are reminded to update PISCES with the correct information in reasonable time. Failure to do so may result in a delay to the vessel.

       DREDGING

1.       A dredging licence is required for any works involving dredging. Dredging is defined as including any operation to cleanse, scour, cut, deepen, widen, dredge or take up or remove material from the bed and banks of the Thames. Bed levelling, ploughing and hydrodynamic dredging fall within this definition.

2.       Information on how to obtain a dredging licence is available here

3.       A full list of Dredging Services offered within the Port of London is available here.

       DRONES

1.    The Port of London Authority has the responsibility to ensure safety to all of those using the Tidal Thames and as such need to be notified, at least 3 working days in advance, about any intended drone flight over the river. For more information about the use of Drones on the Tidal Thames visit: pla.co.uk/drone-operations

       DRYING OUT FACILITIES

1.       The PLA has two drying out facilities in the upper district; Strand-on-the-Green Grid and Isleworth Drawdock.

2.       Isleworth Drawdock is a stretch of vertical river wall with regularly spaced piles and a riverbed suitable for taking the ground (for appropriate vessels), that is directly accessible by road. Isleworth is practically unlimited in the size of vessel it can accommodate.

3.       Strand-on-the-Green grid is a timber grid suitable for smaller vessels, but without road access. The grid is limited to flat bottomed vessels of 25m length, 9m beam and a displacement of 200 tons. There is a tide board on the upriver pile of the grid, and it should be noted that there is no direct shore access at this facility.

4.       More information including charges for using our Drying Out Facilities is available here.

F

       FILMING

1.       All filming activity (and all commercial still photography) on the tidal Thames requires a filming licence. This includes ALL filming involving boats and vessels and filming on piers and other structures in the river. We can also advise on the possibilities for safe filming activity on the Thames foreshore (i.e. the part of the river exposed at low tide). Find more information on filming here.

       FORESHORE PERMITS

1.       Anyone searching the tidal Thames foreshore from Teddington to the Thames Barrier - in any way for any reason - must hold a current foreshore permit from the Port of London Authority. This includes all searching, metal detecting, ‘beachcombing’, scraping and digging. For more information about Thames Foreshore Permits including how to apply for a permit, visit: pla.co.uk/thames-foreshore-permits

H

       HOUSEBOATS

1.       Living afloat in a houseboat on the tidal Thames can be a great lifestyle, but requires careful consideration, especially for individuals new to the river. More information is available on our living afloat page.

       HOT WORKS

1.    Vessels wishing to undertake hot works (including burning, welding or other work involving naked flames) must seek permission from the berth operator and a notification to London VTS must be made prior to commencement and on completion of any hot works via the relevant VHF channel for the area, confirming that permission has been obtained from the berth operator.

2.    Masters are advised to ensure the works are thoroughly risk assessed prior to commencement, with all due care and consideration given to the location, weather conditions, access and environmental impacts.

3.    See also section on London VTS.

       HYDROGRAPHY

1.       The Port of London Authority (PLA) has the busiest port hydrographic department in the UK. The department also has dedicated survey craft fitted with multibeam echo sounder systems.

2.       More information about our Hydrographic department including a full range of services is available here.

L

       LARGE VESSELS WEST OF MARGARETNESS

1.    Large vessels intending to transit West of Margaretness point are required to follow specific procedures detailed in the General Directions for Navigation (GD28). Limits to vessel size are as follows:

1.1       Gallions Reach – London City Airport
Vessels with an air draught greater than 45 metres, intending to transit Gallions Reach in the vicinity of London City Airport.

1.2       Bugsby's Reach - London Cable Car
Vessels with a length overall greater than 130 metres and/or an air draught greater than 55.1 metres, intending to transit the London Cable Car in Bugsby's Reach.

2.    For more information refer to the General Directions: pla.co.uk/general-directions-navigation-port-london.

       LOCAL KNOWLEDGE ENDORSEMENT (LKE)

1.       In July 2012 the PLA’s Thames Byelaws were implemented, which require the master of any commercial vessel between 40m and 13.7m length overall and those vessels under 13.7m length overall, which are engaged in passenger carriage or towing to hold a Local Knowledge Endorsement (LKE) for the Tidal Thames. This also applies to MCA Boatmaster Licence holders.

2.       More information about Local Knowledge Endorsements (LKEs) is available here.

3.       For further queries contact [email protected]

       LOCAL TRAFFIC CONTROL

1.    Local Traffic Control is typically conducted from a PLA Harbour Service Launch under the following circumstances:
        a)    Arrival and Departure of Large Vessels at certain locations such as Tower Bridge Upper and Greenwich Ship Tier
        b)    Major events and filming operations 
        c)    Bridge Arch Closures 
        d)    Emergency Situations

2.    The implementation of Local Traffic Control will be announced on the VHF channel for the relevant sector and the Harbour Service Launch will display blue flashing lights for the duration.

3.    Mariners intending to transit the area under Local Traffic Control are required to make contact with the attending Harbour Service Launch(es) on the VHF channel for the relevant sector and must follow any instructions given by the officers in attendance.

4.    In the event of Local Traffic Control taking place whereby a Harbour Service Launch is unavailable, this may be carried out by London VTS, in which case this will be broadcast on the relevant VHF channel.

5.    See also section RIVER CLOSURES.

       LONDON GATEWAY PORT

1.       DP World London Gateway Port is an independent Statutory Harbour Authority, sited within the boundaries of the PLA, is the UK’s most integrated logistics hub featuring a state-of-the-art deep-sea port and rail terminal on the same site as an expansive land bank for the flexible and fast development of logistics facilities and warehouses. Vessels arriving at London Gateway Port are advised that London Gateway Port have their own Vessel Information Guide which is available to download from their website .

       LONDON VTS

1.       Three Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) sectors are operated in the Port of London, each can be contacted as per the details below: 

1.1      Estuary

• Main VHF Channel = 69 
• Secondary VHF Channel = 18
• Telephone = +44(0)1474 560311
• Limits = Outer Limits to Sea Reach No. 4

1.2      River

• Main VHF Channel = 68
• Secondary VHF Channel = 20
• Telephone = +44(0)1474 560311
• Limits = Sea Reach No. 4 to Crayfordness

1.3      Barrier

• Main VHF Channel = 14
• Secondary VHF Channel = 22
• Telephone = +44(0)203 2607711
• Limits = Crayfordness to Teddington

2.      Navigational Broadcasts including traffic information, cautionary areas, navigational and tidal information are issued every 30 minutes as per the below:

• Estuary - VHF Channel 69 - 15 and 45 minutes past every hour
• River - VHF Channel 68 - 00 and 30 minutes past every hour
• Barrier - VHF Channel 14 - 15 and 45 minutes past every hour

3.    For more information about London VTS visit: pla.co.uk/vessel-traffic-services

4.    See also sections LOCAL TRAFFIC CONTROL, REPORTING REQUIREMENTS, SPEED REDUCTIONS and VHF CARRIAGE REQUIREMENTS.

N

       NAABSA BERTHS

1.       The Port of London Authority has published a procedure detailing the safe operation of NAABSA (Not Always Afloat But Safely Aground) Berths in the Port of London.

2.       The safe operation of berths declared as NAABSA is the berth operator’s responsibility. The responsibility shall encompass that the vessel and the ground alongside the berth is safe and fit for purpose. The safe operation of the vessel is the responsibility of the vessel Master.

3.       Any berths wishing to operate as NAABSA berths will need to declare compliance with the requirements detailed in the NAABSA procedure. To do so, berth operators should complete the NAABSA Berth Compliance Declaration form available on the website and submit to the Harbour Master for review.

4.       The NAABSA Berth compliance declaration is valid for 12 months from the date indicated by the Harbour Master. The operator must submit a new declaration of compliance 30 days before the expiry date. Failure to renew the NAABSA status may result in delays and possible cancellations to vessel bookings.

5.       A list of Approved NAABSA Berths in the Port of London as well as further information on NAABSA is available on our website: pla.co.uk/naabsa-berth-procedure-0

       NABSO

1.    Notices to Agents, Berth and Ship Operators (NABSO) provide essential, up to date information and advice to those supporting navigation and commercial shipping in the Port of London. Subjects will include (but not be limited to) advice on PLA procedures and/or requirements and notification of new and updated rules and regulations for navigation.

2.    To view our current NABSOs visit: pla.co.uk/notices-mariners

3.    See also section NOTICES TO MARINERS and NAVIGATION WARNINGS.

       NAVIGATION WARNINGS

1.       Navigation Warnings serve as a mechanism for the expeditious dissemination of essential, safety critical, navigational information to river and estuary users. The scope of such warnings encompasses various scenarios, including but not limited to:

• Displacement of navigational aids from their designated positions.
• Occurrence of severe or significant meteorological phenomena posing hazards to navigation.
• Malfunction or impairment of essential maritime equipment such as lights, fog signals, buoys, and navigational aids situated along primary shipping lanes.
• Presence of maritime obstructions such as wrecks, reefs, rocks, and shoals, which pose potential risks to major shipping routes.
• Emergence of drifting hazards, including derelict vessels or ice floes.
• Unforeseen alterations or closures of established navigational pathways.
• Anomalies affecting radio navigation systems, maritime safety information services delivered via radio or satellite, or related communication infrastructure.
• Identification of zones necessitating avoidance due to ongoing search and rescue operations or anti-pollution initiatives.

2.       Navigation Warnings supplement the Notice to Mariners system by providing short term vital information. Navigation Warnings are time critical and will never last more than four days – where the danger exists, it will become a Notice to Mariners with greater detail provided. They are promulgated through these methods:

• Email Lists: addresses signed up for any type of Notice to Mariners.
• Email Direct: pre-defined key stakeholders
• Website: posted as a red banner at the top of the website
• Social Media: through the PLA’s various social media accounts

3.       To ensure you receive Navigation Warnings, sign up to any of our Notice to Mariners email lists.

4.       See also sections NOTICES TO AGENTS, BERTHS AND SHIP OPERATORS and NOTICES TO MARINERS.

       NON-TIDAL THAMES

1.       The Environment Agency is responsible for the navigation on the non-tidal river Thames upriver of Teddington Lock, for more information visit: *gov.uk/guidance/river-thames-locks-and-facilities-for-boaters

2.       For information about inland waterways, visit the Canal & River Trust’s website: *canalrivertrust.org.uk/enjoy-the-waterways/canal-and-river-network

       NOTICES TO MARINERS

1.       Notices to Mariners provide essential, up to date information and advice to those supporting navigation and commercial shipping in the Port of London. Subjects will include (but not be limited to) advice on PLA procedures and/or requirements and notification of new and updated rules and regulations for navigation.

2.       If you are carrying out works on the tidal River Thames, you may be required to have a Notice to Mariners issued. Contact our Harbour Master team at [email protected] to discuss if this is applicable to you.

3.       View our current Notices to Mariners and subscribe to updates.

4.       See also sections NABSO and NAVIGATION WARNINGS.

R

       RECREATIONAL USERS

1.       The leisure boating area of our website includes all the necessary information to safely navigate the tidal Thames.

2.       We have a separate dedicated website for our partnership programme that supports the development of watersports on the Tidal Thames and inland waterways of London, Kent and Essex. For more information visit: activethames.co.uk/

3.       We have produced a recreational user guide which can be downloaded from here. To order a large scale hard copy, printed on waterproof paper email us at [email protected] or [email protected]

4.       A list of frequently asked questions regarding recreational river use is available here.

REPORTING ETA/ETD

1.    Reporting vessels are required to report their movements to London VTS as indicated below:

1.1    INWARDS (All Ships)

• a)    24 hours before arrival; pass ETA and draught to Agents/Owners for onward transmission to the Port Control Centre (PCC) at Gravesend. Where ships from near ports cannot give the above notice, an ETA should be passed within one hour of departure from the last port of call. Notifications should be sent using the port’s on-line booking service (PISCES).
• b)    In addition, Agents /Owners of vessels bound for the Port of Tilbury should contact the Marine Co-ordinator, telephone (01375) 852456.
• c)    On passing the first Waypoint; pass all information not previously passed through agent and pertinent to the vessel’s arrival in the Port by VHF to PCC. Pass compliancy report in accordance with GD 13 and report security level.
• d)    On passing each Waypoint; report by VHF to PCC for confirmation of onward clearance.
• e)    On passing Sunk Head Tower Buoy or if using the Fisherman’s Gat, on passing the London Arrival/Departure arc or the North East Spit Buoy INWARD - declare an ETA for Knock John No 1 buoy. They are to report again when passing Black Deep No 5 Buoy, or if using the Fisherman’s Gat the Outer Fisherman’s Buoy giving an updated ETA for Knock John No 1 Buoy.

1.2    INWARDS (Ships requiring Pilots)

• a)    A request for a pilot, including ETA at the pilot station should be passed to the PCC (Shipcon), with the 24 hours’ notice of arrival.
• b)    A CONFIRMED order for a pilot must be given at least 8 hours before arrival at the Sunk Pilot Station or 6 hours before arrival at the NE Spit or Warp pilot station.

1.3    OUTWARDS or SHIFTING BERTH (All Ships)

• a)    24 hours before proposed movement in the river; pass ETD and draught to Agents/Owners for onward transmission to the PCC. Notifications should be sent using the port’s on-line booking service (PISCES).
• b)    Immediately prior to commencement of movement in the river; pass all information pertinent to the vessel’s movement in the river by VHF to PCC and request permission to proceed.
• c)    On passing each Waypoint; report by VHF to PCC for confirmation of onward clearance.
• d)    On passing Sea Reach No 4 Buoy or, if departing the Medway ports, on passing the wreck of the Richard Montgomery, OUTWARD- declare the channels beyond Sea Reach No 1 buoy which they intend to use for navigation and, if planning to use the Princes Channel, make a specific declaration if planning to use the Princes Channel DW route.
• e)    On passing Sea Reach No 1 buoy or the Medway buoy, and planning to use the Knock John Channel OUTWARD- report ETA for Knock John No 4 buoy.

1.4    OUTWARDS or SHIFTING BERTH (Ships requiring Pilots)

• a)    A request for a pilot should be passed to the PCC with the 24 hours’ notice of departure is given.
• b)    A CONFIRMED order for a pilot must be given to PCC at least 6 hours before departure or movement (unless the services of a River Pilot only is required as far as Gravesend or Sea Reach 1 when 4 hours’ notice is required.

2.    Further information is also available in our website: pla.co.uk/vessel-traffic-services

3.    See also section LONDON VTS and REPORTING POINTS.
 

REPORTING POINTS

1.       Below is a diagram depicting all reporting points for the Port of London. These reporting points are also detailed on nautical charts and publications.

2.       See also section REPORTING ETA/ETD and REPORTING VESSELS.

REPORTING VESSELS

1.    Vessels of more than 40 metres in Length Overall, Commercial Vessels of gross tonnage of more than 50 tonnes which ordinarily also navigate outside the Thames; and tugs engaged in towing, or about to tow one or more vessels are required to report their movements to London VTS on the relevant VHF channel for the area. For full details of the requirements for reporting vessel movements in the Thames refer to our General Directions (GD7): pla.co.uk/general-directions-navigation-port-london

       RICHMOND LOCK & WEIR

1.       The Port of London Authority owns and operates Richmond Lock and Weir, which is also the base for the upper Thames harbour service patrols between Putney and Teddington Lock. For more information about Richmond Lock & Weir click here.

2.       For current information please contact the Lock Foreman on 0208 940 0634.

3.       See also section EXCLUSION ZONES, 1.3 Richmond Lock & Weir for information about exclusion zones in this area.

       RIVER CRUISES

1.    For a list of the various River Cruise operators and other passenger vessel operators, visit: pla.co.uk/port-business-directory#R

       RIVER WORKS

1.   Under Section 66 of the Port of London Act, a River Works Licence is required for any works in the River Thames, riverward of the mean high-water springs mark and regardless of ownership of the riverbed, including any works under the river or overhanging the river. This process ensures that all developments in the river are assessed for their potential effect on safety of navigation and the environment.  For more information visit: pla.co.uk/licensing

2.    For queries regarding River Works Licensing contact the Licensing team: [email protected]

T

       TERMINALS DIRECTORY

1.       A list of terminals on the tidal Thames is available here.

       THAMES AIS

1.       Thames AIS is a key navigational safety tool to improve the situational awareness of vessels navigating on the river Thames and to provide additional safety critical information to London VTS.

2.       The system was revised in 2023 after a consultation resulted in a new approach and subsequent revision of the Thames AIS Technical Requirements Specification which serves as an appendix to Thames Byelaw 12 – Thames AIS Carriage Requirements.

3.       For full details on Thames AIS visit our website: https://pla.co.uk/vessel-traffic-services#ais

       THAMES BARRIER CONTROL ZONE

1.    The Thames Barrier is one of the largest movable flood barriers in the world. The Environment Agency runs and maintains the Thames Barrier as well as London’s other flood defences.

2.    A permanent Control Zone, encompassing the Thames Barrier, is established between Margaretness and Blackwall Point. All vessels navigating within the Control Zone are subject to the requirements of the General Directions (GD17).

3.    The Thames Barrier consists of nine piers numbered 1 to 9 from north to south and ten spans lettered A to K from south to north (see Figures 1 & 2 below): 

• a)    Spans B to G are open to navigation subject to the restrictions in the General Directions.
• b)    Spans C, D, E and F are 61m wide with a depth of 5.8m below Chart Datum.
• c)    Spans B and G are 31.5m wide with a depth of 1.2m below Chart Datum and have depth boards on Piers 3 and 9.
• d)    Spans A, H, J and K are permanently closed to navigation.

4.    Under normal circumstances, and subject to the requirements of partial closures, the northern spans E, F and G are used for inward-bound traffic and the southern spans B, C, and D are used for outward-bound traffic. Note: D span may be used by large inward bound vessels.

5.       NAVIGATION LIGHT SIGNALS AND SHAPES

Each navigational span of the Thames Barrier has an array of traffic signals on the ends of the adjacent piers to indicate the spans open to navigation and those that are closed. The light signals will be displayed both by day and by night. Spans are open only to traffic in a single direction at any one time. The intensity of the light signals may be varied by the Thames Barrier Navigation Centre (London VTS) on request. The signals displayed depending on the navigational status are as follows:

5.1       SPANS OPEN TO NAVIGATION
Green Arrows will be exhibited from the ends of piers either side of the span(s) open to navigation. The arrows point inwards towards the span open to navigation from a particular direction.

5.1       SPANS CLOSED TO NAVIGATION
Red Crosses will be exhibited from the ends of the piers either side of span(s) closed to navigation from one or both directions.

5.3    SPANS PERMANENTLY CLOSED TO NAVIGATION
Span A to the south and spans H, J and K to the north are permanently closed to navigation and display at their centres the signals prescribed in the River Byelaws for closed bridge arches, namely:

• a)    By day, three red discs 0.6m in diameter at the points of an equilateral triangle, with the apex downward and the base horizontal.
• b)    By night, three red lights in similar positions to the discs displayed by day.

5.4    FOG LIGHTS
High intensity fixed white lights are situated at the ends of piers 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 and are operated in conjunction with green arrows in reduced visibility. The lights may be switched on or off, or the intensity varied by the Thames Barrier Navigation Centre (London VTS) on request.

6.    BARRIER CLOSURES
The Thames Barrier will be closed under the following circumstances:

• a)    Emergency (Full) Closures - For flood prevention in the event of a surge tide warning and other emergencies. In normal circumstances, notice of a potential flood protection closure will be given approximately 12 hours before the predicted high water at the Thames Barrier.
• b)    Test (Full) Closures - For the purpose of testing the Thames Barrier machinery and carrying out experiments to improve closure methods. Closures will be promulgated by Notice to Mariners published every six months. Such closures may occur at any state of the tide. Mariners, owners, and agents are advised to retain these Notices to Mariners, as no further notice will be given until 24 hours before the closure.
• c)    Partial Closures - For maintenance, other works and training. On occasions it is necessary to close individual spans for maintenance or training. A single floodgate can be in the defence or maintenance position for a prolonged period of time. The span closed signals will be displayed, and vessels are prohibited from approaching these spans.

6.1    Note: When a gate is in the defence position next to a span open to navigation, mariners are advised that variations to the normal current direction and velocity may be experienced.

7    TRAFFIC CONTROL PROCEDURES DURING A FULL THAMES BARRIER CLOSURE
Vessels programmed to transit the Thames Barrier during a full closure will be subject to the following Traffic Control Procedures:

• a)    Inward bound seagoing vessels proceeding to berths above the Thames Barrier will be instructed to anchor in a Designated Anchorage by London VTS.
• b)    Outward bound seagoing vessels from berths upstream of the Thames Barrier will be directed to remain on the berth by London VTS possibly via the berth operator or agent.
• c)    Non-seagoing vessels will be directed to appropriate moorings and berths.
• d)    The approximate time of the Thames Barrier re-opening will normally be known at the same time as closure commences and will be passed to vessels directed to wait.

7.1   Note: If the flood prevention barriers situated at Tilbury Lock, Barking Creek, Dartford Creek, and Benfleet Creek are to be closed to navigation, traffic will be similarly directed as in a) to c). Individual instructions will be passed by London VTS as appropriate.

       THAMES BYELAWS

1.    The Port of London Authority in exercise of its powers under sections 162, 167 and 168 of the Port of London Act 1968 makes the Thames Byelaws, also known as the Port of London Thames Byelaws 2012. The byelaws relate to the management and regulation of marine operations and navigation in the Port of London.

2.    Any person navigating on the Tidal Thames is required to follow these Byelaws. Failure to comply with these regulations is a criminal offence and may result in enforcement. To read the Thames Byelaws, visit our website: pla.co.uk/port-of-london-thames-byelaws.

       THAMES GREEN SCHEME

1.    The Thames Green Scheme is an independent environmental performance indicator for UK inland waterways commercial and services operators to demonstrate their environmental performance for elements including on air quality, carbon, energy, water quality, litter, and waste. Read more about the green scheme on our website: pla.co.uk/thames-green-scheme

       THAMES VISION 2050

1.       Launched in 2022, the Thames Vision 2050 is the development strategy for the tidal Thames running from Teddington Lock, through the heart of London out to the commercial port and estuary. The Vision is built around three interconnected themes, centred on the role the river plays for people and the environment. For more information about the project, visit: pla.co.uk/thames-vision-2050

       TIDES & TIDAL INFORMATION

1.    The Thames from the Teddington Lock to the North Sea is a tidal river. Our Hydrographic department have produced a collection of tidal information which is available on our website: pla.co.uk/tidal-information

2.    Information on our website includes:

• a)    Live tides
• b)    Tide Prediction Tool
• c)    Tide tables (readable and downloadable)
• d)    Tide Differences
• e)    Definitions and notes

3.    For any queries, please contact PLA Hydrographic Service at: pla.co.uk/hydrography or call +44 (0)1474 562207

       TIDEWAY CODE

1.       Navigating any type of small recreational vessel on the tidal Thames, or Thames Tideway as it is also known, requires knowledge of the river and how it operates. The Tideway is by far the busiest inland waterway in the UK which, coupled with a fast-flowing tide and many bridges, piers and moorings, creates a challenging waterway on which to navigate.

2.       The Tideway Code – aimed at both rowers and paddlers – has been produced by The Port of London Authority, Thames Regional Rowing Council and Paddle UK to advise both new and existing users who plan to navigate anywhere along the tidal Thames between Teddington Lock and the Sea. You can download a copy of The Tideway Code here.

W

       WASH AND DRAW-OFF

1.        As the master of a power-driven vessel on the River Thames, you bear a responsibility for the safety of passengers, crew, fellow river users, and the environment. The disturbance caused by your vessel moving through the water, known as "wash," and the interaction between vessels, known as "draw-off," can pose significant dangers.

2.       Vessel Wash: Wash, essentially the waves produced by a vessel displacing water, varies in size and intensity based on vessel size, speed, hull shape, and water conditions.

3.       Draw-Off (Vessel Interaction): Draw-off occurs as a result of a single vessel in motion passing moored vessels in close proximity, resulting in hydrodynamic forces that can pull nearby vessels from their moorings. There is an increased risk of draw-off where berths lie close to the channel edge.

4.       Dangers Include:

• Risk to houseboat occupants, including falling items.
• Damage to smaller vessels, which may capsize.
• Hazards to swimmers and divers due to turbulence.
• Environmental harm from disturbed ecosystems.
• Disruptions in navigation and potential shoreline damage.
• Noise pollution affecting marine life.
• Erosion of coastal areas.

5.       The Port of London Authority (PLA) receives numerous incident reports annually, with a substantial portion being wash complaints in specific areas. Legal consequences can include fines, and reporting offenses is encouraged to improve safety. Various factors influence vessel wash, emphasising the need for vigilance and compliance with regulations to ensure safety and protect the environment.

6.       To report a Wash or Draw-off incident, visit our website: pla.co.uk/near-miss-and-safety-observations. Houseboat residents should submit wash or draw-off reports via the following online form with as much information as possible: pla.co.uk/houseboat-wash-reports

       WASTE DISPOSAL

1.       For information regarding Waste Disposal in the Tidal Thames area, visit: pla.co.uk/waste-management-plan

2.    For a list of Waste Disposal providers, visit: pla.co.uk/port-business-directory#W

       WATER SAFETY

1.       We are committed to reducing the number of people who drown in the tidal Thames, either accidentally or through suicide.

2.       As a founder member of the Tidal Thames Water Safety Forum (TTWSF), we work alongside HM Coastguard, RNLI, London Fire Brigade, Metropolitan Police (Marine Policing Unit) and London Ambulance Service.

3.       Together we are working to make the river a safe place for all users, including dog walkers and joggers on the foreshore, who may become stranded due to the river’s fast moving tides, and people visiting riverside pubs and restaurants.

4.       More information on Water Safety is available here.

       WEIGHTED HEAVING LINES

1.    Masters and crews of vessels visiting the Thames are required to use properly constructed heaving lines for all mooring and towing operations. The use of ‘weighted' heaving lines is both prohibited and extremely dangerous. These may cause serious injury or a fatality to those on the receiving end, either ashore or onboard a tug or mooring boat.  

2.    The MCA has issued a policy on reporting and management of inappropriately weighted heaving lines. The Port of London Authority reports all instances of dangerously weighted heaving lines to the MCA. This may result in enforcement action being taken against the vessel.  

3.    Masters of vessels and Agents are reminded that heaving lines with inappropriate weighting, such as pieces of metal, are not to be used under any circumstances. This dangerous practice is causing unacceptable risk to tug crews and shore mooring teams, and appropriate enforcement action will be taken as necessary.

4.    Shore mooring teams and tug crews have instructions to cut off weighted “monkeys’ fists” or any other added weights from heaving lines, where used. The weighted “fist” or added weight will be retained as evidence in the event of proceedings being taken against the vessel and/or individuals involved.  

5.    The use of messenger rope is also strongly discouraged as this type of rope is significantly heavier than standard heaving line rope (<12mm diameter).

       WORKS OVERSIDE

1.    Vessels wishing to undertake maintenance works overside (including painting) are required to notify London VTS 30 minutes prior to works commencing, and again on completion of works once all persons are back onboard.

2.    Works overside must be undertaken in daylight hours only and must be thoroughly risk assessed prior to commencement, with all due care and consideration given to the location, weather conditions, access and environmental impacts.

3.    The Master must ensure that permission from the berth operator is in place. For maintenance at anchorage, permission from the Harbour Master must be obtained.