Below are rules and regulations that Captains & Boatmasters must obey on the River Thames.


The PLA limits on the Thames

Right of way

Any boat approaching a bridge or bend in the river when going against the tide should give way to a boat approaching with the tide.

Overtaking

If you overtake another boat, you should keep well clear of the slower boat. If you are being overtaken, officially you should maintain your speed - you may decide to slow down to let the other boat past, but don't speed up. Sound signals should be made in good time as appropriate.

Keep to the right

When proceeding up or down river, all PDV (power driven vessels) should, keep to the starboard (right hand) side of mid-channel.

Speed

Above Wandsworth there is a speed limit of 8 knots (9 mph) through the water. Below Wandsworth there is no specific limit, but speed should be adjusted to ensure that there is no damage caused by excessive wake. For most pleasure craft this is not likely to be a major problem, but bear in mind that there is a fine of up to £1000 available!

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Regulations

The name of any vessel must be clearly displayed.

Any vessel 12 metres (approx 40 ft) or more in length suffering damage must inform the PLA Harbour Master, must not proceed above Lower Hope Point or move, if above Lower Hope Point, without the Harbour Master's permission.

A person must be in charge of a vessel at all times

All Vessels must have lights during the dark

Vessels must be moored correctly and securely

All vessels should be equiped with an anchors

Any river user must not navigate while under the influence of drink or drugs. PLA launches are equipped with standard breathalyser equipment.

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Sound Signals

One short blast: I am altering my course to starboard

Two short blasts: I am altering my course to port

Three short blasts: My engines are going astern

Five or more short and rapid blasts: I do not consider you are taking sufficient action to keep clear of me

Four short blasts followed by one short blast : I am turning around to starboard

Four short blasts followed by two short blasts : I am turning around to port

One prolonged blast : I am about to get underway,

Two long blasts followed by one short blast : I am about to overtake you on your starboard (right) side

Two long blasts followed by two short blasts : I am about to overtake you on your port (left) side

One long, one short, one long, one short : the reply by the vessel being overtaken

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VHF

Vessels should monitor London VTS on VHF channel 14

Emergency VHF

broadcast a “MAYDAY” or “PAN-PAN” call on VHF Channel 16 or call Thames Coastguard, London Coastguard or London VTS.

Information from The Tidal Thames - A Guide for Users of Recreational Craft.

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Thames Talk

The Act - Port of London Act 1968

Laid up - A craft or boat for hire that has ceased to be used

The Licensing Area - The part of the Thames,as Defined in the Act which is above the Lower Hope Point

Master - The person taking the command,charge or management of a vessel.

Passenger boat - A boat used to carry passengers for reward

Lighter - A barge used for carrying goods

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Head on situation

When two power driven vessels are meeting on a reciprocal course,both vessels should alter course to starboard so that each shall pass on the port side of each other.

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Anchoring

All vessels above crayfordness can not anchor for more than two hours.

Anchoring areas:
Long reach - Max 12hours max length 100m no more
St Clements - Max 12hours max length 100m no more
Gravesend - Max 12hours max length 100m no more
Higham bight - no limit

By night all vessels must show all round white lights.

Every vessel must carry at least one anchor

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Moorings:



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Reasons to close the barrier:

1. Spring Tides
2. Gale force winds - Force 8 or above