Notice to Mariners

There are occasions when the Masters of vessels below the size at which pilotage is compulsory are offered, and accept, the services of a person who is not a PLA authorised pilot to act as a guide for their passage on the Thames.  This notice advises that such circumstances must, under the 1987 Pilotage Act Part 1, Section 17, Paragraph 2, be notified to the competent Harbour Authority, in this case the Port of London Authority.  Failure to do so constitutes an offence under the Act.

To comply with this requirement Masters of Vessels must report by VHF to London VTS at Gravesend or Woolwich, as appropriate, as soon as a person who is to provide guidance joins their vessel, giving the name of that person and specifying the area in which guidance is to be given.

NB: This Notice is also issued as a Notice to Agents, Berth and Ship Operators No.6 of 2005.