Guidance Documents

River Thames Recreational Users Guide 2013

The Recreational Users Guide for the tidal River Thames has now been updated by the Port of London Authority (PLA) with a new 2013 version.  This easy to use guide is a two sided map of the River Thames, which replaced the Authority's previous A5 booklet 'The Tidal Thames – a guide for users of recreational craft'.

'The River Thames Recreational Users Guide - Teddington to Sea Reach', is a practical and informal method of highlighting key points of interest for leisure users. Information includes: practical guidance, marine and leisure activity areas, danger zones, Vessel Traffic Services information and port VHF channels, speed limit areas, marina and yacht club information, useful contact details and a summary of local port rules and regulations.

The new Guide can be downloaded from the website in two parts as pdf files:

Broadness to Sea Reach -  4.4Mb

Teddington to Broadness - 4.4Mb

The Guide is also available as a two-sided waterproof map of the River Thames free-of-charge by post (the PLA reserves the right to charge for orders in excess of 2 copies). Please use this Enquiry Form to order a copy. 

Mariners' Guide to Bridges on the Tidal Thames 2nd Edition

The Mariners' Guide to Bridges on the Tidal Thames 2nd Edition is now available for purchase.  The book provides an overview of navigating London's bridges, and highlights the safety issues associated with this challenging environment. 

Click here for more information and order forms.

Guidance to Berth Operators on the tidal Thames 2012

This booklet highlights the responsibilities and obligations placed upon berth operators by national legislation, the Port Marine Safety Code and local and national Codes of Practice.

Port Entry Guide

This guidance provides a summary of the principal rules and regulations governing navigation within the Port of London.