PQBH Marina Guide 2022 v10

Navigation Hints
See Admiralty Chart 2611 or Imray Chart Y23
The approach to Poole
• If approaching from the Solent, the entrance is identifiable from the high cliffs
of Anvil Point. When nearer, the rocks of Old Harry (Handfast Point) are clearly
visible. The Swash Channel is clearly marked.
• When leaving for, or approaching from the west, beware of the strong
current off Handfast Point on the ebb tide.
• The Harbour is accessible at all states of the tide and is only dangerous in
very strong S and SE winds, particularly on the ebb tide.
• The entrance channel ‘The Swash’ passes between the Training Bank,
on the western side, and Hook Sands to the east. Be careful of the Chain Ferry,
just at the entrance, as the ebb can run to 5 knots or more.
Take extreme care using the East Looe Cut, due to shifting sands.
Navigational Safety Guidance
• Avoid sailing in the main navigational channels
where possible, especially in poor visibility. Be
aware of the effect of passing close to a large
vessel. The ship’s hydro-dynamic displacement
can pull the water from under you without
notice.
• Give right of way to large vessels which are
limited in their manoeuvring space. Remember
they may have less room than is immediately
apparent.
• If you have to proceed within the channel keep
to the starboard (right hand) side or use the
small boat channel. Vessels with a draft of up
to 1.5 metres should use the southern side of
the middle ship channel.
• Be Alert ~ keep a sharp look out for vessels
surveying, dredging and laying buoys or
moorings. Look around you ~ especially
astern.
• Watch your wash ~ even when you are
proceeding within the speed limit, you may be
creating a wash. Slow down whenever you see
other vessel activity which could be affected,
for example craft embarking passengers or
youngsters in canoes.
• The International Regulations for the
Prevention of Collisions at Sea apply to all
vessels ~ including those racing.
• Take particular care with boats under sail,
especially when they are racing.
• Be visible and make your intentions clear.
You may think you know what you are doing and
where you are going, but put yourself in the
shoes of the Master of the cross-channel ferry
~ does he know your intentions?
• You may see a large ship at all times, but if you
disappear from the view of the Master of a ship
you are too close. Ask yourself ‘can you see
the crafts Bridge?’ If not - the Master probably
can’t see you.
• Do not underestimate the speed of other ships.
If your boat is slow you might not be able to
take effective action to keep clear if you find
yourself on a collision course. If in doubt, take
avoiding action and take it early.
• Do not anchor or drift in any navigational
channel or create an obstruction within
the channels.
• Do not secure to, or obscure any navigational
marks, buoy, beacon or stake.
• Mariners are advised that large inbound
vessels will tend to be on the port hand side of
the channel between the Harbour Entrance and
North Haven Point to avoid Chapmans Peak.
8 The Poole Harbour and Marina Guide 2022