Notice to Mariners

Over the past eighteen months the Port of London Authority has been reviewing the Port of London River Byelaws 1978 (as amended) in consultation with river users.  As part of this process Byelaw 48 (Speed Limits) has been carefully re-examined and it is proposed to introduce a blanket 12 Kt speed limit between Cherry Garden Pier and Wandsworth Bridge in the new Port of London Thames Byelaws (2009).

The risks of collision or contact resulting from growing freight and passenger traffic, the increasing speed differential between different types of vessels and the major construction works in the area, requires action to be taken pending the introduction of the new Thames Byelaws.

An advisory speed limit of 12 Kt between Cherry Garden Pier and Wandsworth Bridge is therefore introduced with immediate effect.

Safety is the responsibility of all those navigating on and using the River, for whatever purpose.  All mariners should recognise the significant risks that navigating in central London at high speed brings, and to act responsibly by adhering to the new advisory speed limit.

Attention is also drawn to The International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea 1972 (as amended) Rule 6 (Safe Speed) and the Port of London Act 108 (General rules for navigation) which provides:

A Master who navigates his vessel on the Thames:

a  without due care and attention; or
b  in a manner liable to injure or endanger persons, other vessels, the banks of the Thames (whether above or below mean high water level) or any structure or installation in or beside the Thames;

shall be guilty of an offence and liable to a fine upon conviction.