MARINE - PILOTAGE INFORMATION

RIVER PORT

The Pilotage function at EastPort UK is carried out by Great Yarmouth Port Company on behalf of the Great Yarmouth Port Authority. The Pilotage service operates 24/7.

Pilotage is compulsory for vessels over 40 metres LOA for entry and departure. Pilotage may not be compulsory for certain vessels that are shifting within the port but Masters must be familiar with the harbour.

ETA for Pilotage is 8 hours or departure from last port, confirmed at 2 hours. 

Notice of departure at least 1 hour.  (If towage is required, please see below.)

Owing to strong tides, it is customary local practice for Pilots to steer vessels.  Anchors should be ready for immediate use.

Communications / Reporting

NOTE:  VHF communications and telephone conversations with Marine Services and pilots are recorded.

Report to Marine Services on passing Gorleston Pier, Atlas, Ocean, Haven Bridge and prior to swinging.  Vessels must advise Marine Services when securely moored on their berth and prior to letting go.

International port traffic entry/exit signals are displayed at the port entrances.

Tides & Depths

Tidal flows in the River Port can be very swift particularly during spring tides when rates of 4 knots can be achieved.  Mariners should be aware that during certain wind and meteorological conditions tidal flow rates can reach 5/6 knots (these conditions usually occur during the winter months).  Within the Outer Harbour tidal flows are weak but there is a strong north south tidal flow outside the entrance.

• Range        2.0m Springs / 1.0m Neaps

Slack approximately 90 minutes after HW/LW but this may vary with weather conditions.

The Harbour Office (see Marine Contacts) holds copies of the latest sounding sheets.

Please also see Tides/Weather.

Designated Swinging Areas

Vessels may be swung in other areas dependent upon vessel length, draught and other traffic movements.  In certain conditions the bow or stern may have to be held against the quay during a swing.  Contact Marine Services prior to any swing (See Marine Contacts).

Speed in the River

All vessels should maintain a slow speed in the river.  Mariners are reminded that the maximum speed of 7 knots is not necessarily a safe speed and a slower speed may be appropriate.  Take care with vessel wash and avoid causing a nuisance to other vessels either moored or underway.

Running of main engines and thrusters whilst alongside is a contravention of the Harbour Byelaws.

Towage 

Towage services can be arranged through EastPort UK via your Agent allowing at least 24 hours notice during normal hours.  Bookings for tugs should be made through Marine Services after consultation with the Pilots.

Fendering

Most berths have fixed fenders but crew should have ships fenders available for berthing/swinging and as additional protection when alongside.

Mooring & Boat Services

Mooring services are available 24/7 by contacting either Yarmouth Pilots or Marine Services on VHF Channel 12 giving 1 hour's notice whenever possible.

The Company operates a "shipping off" service for personnel, using the Pilot boats or the survey launch "Compass". Pilot boats can carry up to 4 passengers and the "Compass" up to 6 passengers.

All passengers must wear lifejackets and follow the instructions of the Coxswain. Stores can be carried although space is limited. There is a weight limit of 20 Kg on individual items on the Pilot boats.

Anchorages

During Easterly winds it is best to anchor near the off-lying banks in particular close West of the South part of Scroby Sands.  Gorleston Roads, South-East of the entrance to the river provides good anchorage in depth 10 to 20 metres.

Masters should ensure they do not anchor in the approaches to the port entrances or within port limits and be aware of charted obstructions.

There are three prohibited anchorages within the river.

Craft

There is a small fleet of vessels comprised of three pilot cutters, a survey vessel and a river launch. The vessels carry out the routine conservancy function of the Port but are available for third party hire through the Harbour Office.

Local Byelaws

The Port has Byelaws which are available for inspection at any time.

Great Yarmouth Port Authority

Great Yarmouth Port Company carries out most of the Port Authority's statutory functions on its behalf. The only exception is the specialist pilotage function which operates under separate legislation and which will remain with the Port Authority until new legislation is in place.