QUEENS HARBOUR MASTER

PORTSMOUTH

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

LNTM 63/02

RO-RO FERRIES OVER 20,000 TONS GROSS - REGULATIONS WHEN MOVING IN PORTSMOUTH HARBOUR

1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN from experience gained whilst operating larger RO-RO Ferries in Portsmouth, the following regulations are in force until further notice:
   
   
1. When the wind speed, as indicated in QHM Harbour Control is less than 30 knots:



(1) The Harbour Control Officer is to arrange movements so that RO-RO ferries over 20,000 tons gross do not pass opposing traffic between the Outer Spit Buoy and the Ballast Buoy.

(2) However, Isle of Wight ferries traffic and vessels less than 80 metres in length may be allowed to proceed at the discretion of the Harbour Control Officer.

2. When the wind speed, as indicated in QHM Harbour Control is more than 30 knots:



(1) The Harbour Control Officer is to close the Harbour to opposing traffic from 20 minutes before to 30 minutes after a large RO-RO ferry's reported time of passing the Outer Spit Buoy or slipping. The Harbour Control Officer may direct certain vessels to move or hold in the harbour during these periods.


(2) A RO-RO ferry over 20,000 tons gross is not to pass the Outer Spit Buoy inbound until its berth is clear.


(3) An MOD tug is to be in attendance during each movement. A second tug is available if requested by the Master.



3. At wind speeds of 45 knots and above a second tug will be allocated to the move by QHM Harbour Control.



2. The decision on how to employ allocated tugs remains with the Master. A Pilot is always available and may be requested to assist with tug control.
   
   
3. These arrangements will be kept under review.
   
   
4. LNTM 17/02 is hereby cancelled.