Mariners and berth operators are reminded that certain VHF channels are used for berthing and tug operations in the Thames and so far as is practicable should be avoided by vessels using VHF for other purposes. Permanent Notice to Mariners No P9 of 2005 on the use of VHF Radio is reproduced below.
The following VHF channels are commonly used for tug operations on the Thames:
Oil Refineries 36 and 10
Tilbury Docks 15 River - 17 in the dock
River Berths 8, 13 and 72
NHCT 77
Vessels wishing to talk inter-ship or use an on-board VHF communication system should, when in the Thames, for safety reasons, as far as is practicable use alternative channels to those above.
Masters of vessels are reminded that inter-ship navigational messages should be passed on the port operations channel appropriate to the location of those vessels. In this way other traffic and the relevant PLA VTS Centre may be appraised of vessels' intentions.
