Cowes Port Handbook 2014-2015 April 2014 | Page 16

COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2014 - 2015

Ferries & Commercial Vessels

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Vessels over 30m in length will make announcements on VHF Ch 69 at
selected reporting points which include approaching the harbour limits,
the Chain Ferry, Kingston, The Folly, and prior to departing berths.
Such vessels shall also sound one prolonged blast on the whistle when
approaching the Chain Ferry from the north or south. All vessels are
strongly recommended to maintain a listening watch on VHF Ch 69. 

There are frequent ferry movements in the harbour and its approaches.
Red Jet passenger vessels exhibit a flashing yellow light when underway
and swing to starboard after one short blast, using much of the fairway.
Vessels should not overtake on the starboard side of the Red Jets when
they approach their berth at Jubilee Pontoon, Town Quay.
The vehicle ferries berth between the Union Flag shed and the Chain Ferry
on the East Cowes side. The vehicle ferries will turn to port at No. 6 buoy
to approach their berth. Outbound vessels should proceed with caution in
the vicinity and avoid passing ahead of the vehicle ferries.
Red Funnel vehicle ferries, Red Jets and cargo vessels can only safely
navigate within the fairway. Sailing vessels, fishing vessels and vessels
under 20m must give way to vessels that can only safely navigate within
the fairway. Sailing vessels are reminded to have their auxiliary engine, if
fitted, ready for immediate manoeuvre (General Direction 4.6).

Speed Limits & Wash

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The speed limit in the Inner
Harbour is 6 knots through
the water. The Harbour Master
takes particular care to ensure
this limit is enforced at all
times. Please be conscious
that this is the limit and not a
‘target’. This is particularly the
case with wash and its effects
upon others in close vicinity, especially craft moored up on pontoons
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