ROWING on the TIDEWAY a Code of Practice for Rowing on the Tidal Thames (Inside Rear Cov- Er)

ROWING ON THE TIDEWAY A Code of Practice for Rowing on the Tidal Thames (Inside rear cover)

THIRD EDITION 2015 FOREWORD ...... 2 CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION 3–6 FURTHER PRINCIPLES 25–40 COMMUNICATION & REPORTING 51–54 What is “Working the Slacks”? . . . . . 4 Restricted Zones...... 25 Emergencies ...... 51 Upper Tideway Rowing Code Area . . . 5 Stopping (easy-ing)...... 26 Mobile phones & VHF radio ...... 51 Lower Tideway Rowing Code Area . . . 6 Turning (spinning) ...... 27 Behaviour of motor vessels . . . . . 51 Proceeding abreast (side-by-side). . . . 28 Who is afloat? ...... 52 TIDE & STREAM 7–12 Overtaking ...... 29–32 Rowing incidents ...... 52 Ebb & flood tide ...... 7–9 – In the Fairway...... 29–30 The Tideway Code panel . . . . . 53–54 Fluvial flow ...... 10 – In the Restricted Zones ...... 31 UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS 55–88 Factors affecting the tide & stream . . 11 – In the Inshore Zones...... 32 Set of the tide ...... 11–12 Rights of way ...... 33 Teddington Lock to Syon Crossing . . 55 Avoiding collisions ...... 34–36 Upper Tideway Rowing Code Area . . 56 BEFORE YOU GO AFLOAT 13–16 – Head-on situation...... 34–35 Syon Reach & Kew Bend/Bridges 57–65 – Turn of the tide...... 36 Mortlake Reach & Chiswick Bridge 66–69 Is the steers authorised? ...... 13 Shouted warnings...... 37 Corney Reach & Barnes Bridge 70–73 Who is afloat? ...... 13 Sound signals...... 37–38 Chiswick Reach & H’smith Bridge 74–79 Topical river information? ...... 13 Bridges ...... 39–40 Barn Elms Reach & Putney Bridge 82–88 What will the weather conditions be? .14 What will the water conditions be? . . 14 COACHING 41–44 CENTRAL LONDON 89–90 How experienced is the crew? . . . . 14 Roles & responsibilities...... 41 What time of day is it? ...... 14 LOWER AREA DIRECTIONS 91–112 Are you wearing the right kit? . . . . . 15 Launch positioning...... 41 Lower Tideway Rowing Code Area . . 91 Is your equipment up to scratch? . . . 15 Speed, load & wash limits...... 42 Lower Pool (and Cuckhold’s Point) . . 92–97 Lighting your boat ...... 15–16 Equipment ...... 43–44 – Lighting coaching launches...... 43 Isle of Dogs (Limehouse & Greenwich) 98–103 Blackwall Point (O2 Arena) . . . . 104–107 PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION 17–40 – Communications ...... 44 – Life Jackets & Kill Cords ...... 44 Bugsby’s Reach (Thames Barrier) . 108_112 BASIC PRINCIPLES 17–24 Going afloat ...... 17 ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES 45–50 APPENDICES 113_116 Port & starboard ...... 17 Personal responsibility ...... 45 A – Life Jackets ...... 113 Lookout ...... 18 Coaches’ responsibility ...... 45 B – Contact details ...... 114 Positioning on the river . . . . . 19–21 Clubs’ responsibilities...... 46 C – Club Colours & Codes . . . 115–116 – Outside the Rowing Code Areas . . . 19 PLA & TRRC responsibilities...... 46 – General Navigation Rules (Col Regs) . 20 Events’ responsibilities...... 47–48 Click on a subject to go to the first page of that subject. Be aware that subjects may be covered – Inside the Rowing Code Areas . . . 21 Boat Identification...... 49 go back to over several pages. Use your pdf browser arrows Crossing the river ...... 22–24 contents Environment, Pollution & Health. . . . . 50 or scroll bars to navigate between pages. 2 contents go

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS to

©2015 Allrights reservedIdentification ofanycluborindividual withinthephotographs usediscoincidental andwithoutagenda.Nopartofthis documentmaybe reproduced without permission .©2015 The publisher hasmadeeveryeffort toensure the contentiscorrect, buttakenoresponsibility foritsaccuracy Printed byftsolutions–info@ftsolutions .couk Designed &typesetbyNeilPickford –neilpickford@mac .com Original illustrationsbyNeilPickford (TidewaydiagramsbasedondatasuppliedbyPLAHydrographic services) Original photographsbyPLA,TRRC,NeilPickford Thames RegionalRowingCouncil Port ofLondonAuthority With thankstothecontributorsthis2015(third) edition: Rowing ontheTideway, ACodeofPracticeforrowingontheTidal ThamesabovePutney2009(secondedition). This bookisbasedonthePLAandTRRC’s 2009publication: .Allinformation inthisbookwascorrect atthetimeof printing andallcopyrights sought.

FOREWORD ROWING ON THE TIDEWAY A Code of Practice for Rowing on the Tidal Thames

This Third Edition (2015) of the Rowing Code of recommendations of a detailed risk assessment and Practice is substantially rewritten and redesigned to be the requirements of local and international regulation . more of a user guide to help you better understand and Its objective is to provide the rowing community apply the Rowing Code on an increasingly busy river . with a single comprehensive source of information and We hope you find the new book even more useful, as advice about rowing on the tidal Thames, in which all it is very much intended to be a readily available and may have confidence and which will enhance safety . easily assimilated ‘come in handy’ guide . To this end, it is vital that all who use the Tideway Rowing safely on the Tideway requires more recognise that others have equal rights to the than the usual rowing skill . It also demands a sound water and that safety will best be enhanced by the knowledge of the effects of the strong tidal streams application of three fundamental principles - namely: and variable depths invariably found on the River Thames . At low water especially above Putney, rowing • Keep a proper lookout is made even more challenging by the exceptionally • Know and follow the rules large number of rowers and other river users, all of whom wish to pursue their activity in what is a very • Show consideration for others confined area with limited water . Below Tower Bridge the main challenge for rowers is the busy commercial Enjoy your river nature of the river . “Rowing on the Tideway”, a joint publication David Phillips Martin Humphrys, JP produced by the Port of London Authority and Chief Harbourmaster, Chairman, Thames Regional Rowing Council brings together Port of London Thames Regional practical guidance from experienced rowers, the Authority Rowing Council gogo backback toto contentscontents 2 contents go

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INTRODUCTION to

of anincident. is notadefence intheevent Ignorance oftheregulations on thePLAwebsite–pla.co.uk can befoundintheirentirety review andthelatest additions regulations under regular The PLAkeepsallits recognition. coloured panelforeaseof Code theyare enclosedina regulations are quotedinthis regulations. Where navigational and recognise thesevarious Code must,inpart,refer to By itsverynature, theRowing • • • • • Thames inanumberofways: regulate navigationonthetidal London Authority(PLA)who the jurisdictionofPort Teddington Lockcomesunder The tidalThamesasfar Notices toMariners General Directions Thames Byelaws Port ofLondonAct Col Regs visit thePLAleisure website–boatingonthethames. co .uk guidance andadviceonother wateractivitiesontheTidalThamesplease This CodeofPracticeisspecifically aimedatrowing ontheTideway away forgood,tothedetrimentofsport. historically enjoyedbytherowing communityintheseareas are nottaken for followingtheRowingCodeandensure thatthetraditionalprivileges It isuptotherowing community, clubsandindividualstotakeresponsibility predominantly followthesamepracticeof “working theslacks”. in Greenwich .Theserowing rulesare similartotheUpriverArea and set ofrowing ruleswasestablishedin2014totakeintoaccount rowing Navigational RiskAssessmentWorking Group inOctober 2013.Anew Since thesecondeditionofRowingCode(2009), thePLAhelda Areas rowers are expectednavigateaccording totheRowingCode. may beremoved ifrowers donotadhere toit.WithintheRowingCode Code isaprivilegeconditionaluponresponsible, safenavigation,which It mustbemadeclearthatbeingallowedtonavigateusingTheRowing to allowrowers tocontinueenjoytheirsportinasafeway and theTRRCdevelopedaRowingCodeofPractice,whichisdesigned As theresult ofastudybytheSalvageAssociationin2004,PLA Introduction . .For

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INTRODUCTION go contents

navigation rules of staying to starboard by rowing in by rowing to starboard of staying rules navigation inside of the bend water on the the slower moving practice that is It is this against the tide . – but only slacks . working the known as on the to ride a bike a bit like being allowed It’s of the traffic . against the flow pavement

What is “Working the Slacks”? the Slacks”? “Working is What

have traditionally been allowed to break with normal been allowed to break have traditionally Therefore, oar-powered boats oar-powered . Therefore, inside of the bend , with slower or ‘slack’ water being on the or ‘slack’ water a bend, with slower water flows faster around the outside of the outside faster around water flows In general . current into a strong their boat and force have to try ‘slack’ water when rowing against the tide, rather than the tide, rather against when rowing ‘slack’ water developed by working oarsmen to use the easier to use the easier by working oarsmen developed Working the slacks is a navigation system historically historically system is a navigation the slacks Working Upper Tideway Rowing Code Area

The Upper Tideway Rowing Code Area is between the Outside this area rowers should not work the slacks Bishop’s Park steps at Putney and the red navigation but navigate according to Col Regs (Rule 9a, buoy in Syon Reach . starboard rule . See pages 19 – 20 for details) . INTRODUCTION

go back to contents 5 Lower Tideway Rowing Code Area INTRODUCTION

The Lower Tideway Rowing Code Area is between Outside this area rowers should not work the slacks Cherry Garden Pier and 500m upriver of the but navigate according to Col Regs (Rule 9a, Thames Barrier . starboard rule . See pages 19– 20 for details) .

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TIDE & STREAM to

• • if youare notsure about thestateoftide: Navigation, butthere twogoldenrulestofollow in more detailonpage36,FurtherPrinciplesof ofthetideiscoveredHow tonavigateattheturn be notideatall. water betweenthetwotideswhere there appearsto of theriverandthere isausuallysectionofslack its direction firstattheedge .Thetidegenerallyturns itcanbeveryhardIf thetideisonturn, tojudge information . and smartphoneapps.thatcanalsoprovide this PLA websiteandthere are variousotherwebsites Tables ofpredicted tidetimesare availableonthe Knowing inwhichdirection thetideisgoingcritical. regard tonavigation. the direction andstrength ofthetideandstream, with bridge piersetc.–soattentionmustbepaidtoboth and theflowcan reach fourknots–more around The tidalriseandfallcanbeasmuchsevenmetres the behaviouroftide,whichchangesconstantly and theRowingRulesare essentiallybasedaround The ThamesbelowTeddington Lockisatidalriver Ebb &floodtide Keep averygoodlookout Navigate tothe starboard sideoftheFairway .

• • • • times, there are manywaystocheckthetidedirection: Apart from tidetables,whichshowpredicted tide past abridgebuttress orbuoy(seebelow) Look atwhichdirection thewaterisflowing (accounting forthewind) will generallydriftwiththestream direction Stop andsquare yourbladesinthewater, you (accounting forthewind) See whatdirection floatingobjectsdriftin hang downstream from theirmooring (e .gPutneyEmbankment),theywillalways Look atboatsmoored onlyatoneend DIRECTION OFSTREAM

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A flood tide takes 4 .5 hours approximately low water to come in from A FLOOD tide is an inbound tide so the river level goes up An ebb tide takes An ebb tide takes 8 .5 hours approximately water high to run out from outbound An EBB tide is an drops tide so the river level

• •

• • will always turnwill always below Putney: first the tide the Area Tideway Upper In the Ebb & flood tide & flood Ebb contents go

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TIDE & STREAM to

• • • • Woolwich: firstbelow tide willalwaysturn In theLowerTidewayArea the Ebb &floodtide come infrom lowwater approximately 5hours to A floodtidetakes tide sotheriverlevelgoes up A FLOODtideisaninbound run outfrom highwater approximately 7hoursto An ebbtidetakes tide sotheriverleveldrops An EBBtideisanoutbound

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TIDE & STREAM go contents

During abnormal fluvial flows flows fluvial abnormal During Tide an ‘Ebb provide the PLA all and system Warning’ Flag vessels should man–powered in advice, as detailed note the Mariners P23 2014 Notice to is updated daily This advice website – leisure on the PLA .co .uk boatingonthethames a widget as It is also provided installed on which should be all club websites. also be This information can main online on the sourced .co .uk PLA website – pla

. suitably experienced for the conditions are if crews system to help judge . Use this Tideway it only applies to an ebb tide but on the Teddington It is similar to the red and yellow board system used above board and yellow red . It is similar to the to rowers A flag warning of the river is in place to help indicate the speed system Ebb tide flag warning system . dangerous in some cases, to navigate on and difficult river more make the When combined with an ebb tide this can with an ebb . When combined in speed to increase stream After heavy rainfall, the fluvial flow will increase causing the outbound causing the outbound flow will increase rainfall, the fluvial tide . After heavy reason that the river fills up very quickly when it meets the inbound (flood) when it meets the up very quickly that the river fills reason There is always water flowing outbound (downriver) and is the outbound (downriver) water flowing is always Thames . There Fluvial flow is the amount of water flowing downriver from the non-tidal the non-tidal from downriver flowing of water the amount flow is Fluvial Fluvial flow Fluvial contents go

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the Fairway navigate tothe starboard sideof not really feature .Ifyouare unsure, is doingandthefloodtide may It maybehard totellwhatthetide the riverwhichcanbeconfusing . will haveanoticeableeffect on If theThamesBarrierisshut, it Thames Barrier not theexpectedfloodtide. outbound stream direction and always navigateaccording tothe the riverinthisstateyoushould and cancauseconfusion.With This effect iscalledSwelling appears tobeflowingoutbound. (flooding) butthestream still heavy, thetidecanbeinbound winter), whenthefluvialflowisvery On rare occasions(usuallyinthe flow inthesamedirection . tide, althoughtheyalmostalways a slightlydifferent thingfrom the of theflowriverandcanbe The stream isthevisibledirection The Stream Factors affecting thetide&stream . and Teddington locks . affects theriverbetweenRichmond lower thanusual.Thedraw-off only to itsnaturallevel,whichis much water at Richmondisleftopenover low and iswhenthehalf-tidebarrier weeks inOctober–November The draw-off isnormallyforfour Draw-offs river differently alongitscourse. remember thatwindwillaffect the considerably soitisimportantto The Tidewaymeanders the stream direction . wind cangiveafalseimpression of high tide.Sometimesaverystrong difficult conditions,especiallyat the waterandcanmakeforvery the tide,itwillchopuptopof speed-up thestream .Ifitisagainst the samedirection asthetideitwill effect ontheriver The windcanhaveaconsiderable Wind .Thisallowstherivertodrain .Ifthewindisin set ofthetide. pushed outofpositionby the navigational lineandnot be in order tostayonthecorrect to activelycorrect theircourse Steers andcoxesshouldsteer of thebend. push boatstowards theoutside but thesetoftidewillnaturally towards theinsideofbend the starboard sideoftheFairway correct navigationistostayon this bendontheebbtide, In theexampleopposite,around a rowing boat. correct course expectedof course), whichmaynotbethe the outsideofabend(itsnatural the flowofwateralways‘sets’to the setoftide.Thisiswhere Navigators needtobeaware of (aka Tidalset) Set ofthetide ,

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TIDE & STREAM go contents Set of the tide of the Set contents go

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BEFORE YOU GO AFLOAT to

Twitter: via socialmedia,particularly information isalsoavailable A lotoftopicalriver website –pla.couk also availableonthePLA of theriver. TheseNoticesare pertaining totheirstretch email, NoticestoMariners to automaticallyreceive, by sign-up onthePLAwebsite authorised steersshould Advisers, Coachesand All clubCaptains,Safety waves ofupto1.2minheight. river usersshouldexpect Category Cwaters,where Coastguard Agency)as by theMCA(Maritimeand tidal Thamesiscategorised in theRowingCodeAreas the Rowers mustbeaware that @ThamesPoo @Thames21 @MrSafeT_Tideway @AlanBarrierEA @LondonPortAuth aspect oftheouting. are notcomfortablewithany or acoach,intogoingafloatifyou Do notbeforced, bypeerpressure experience . equipment, knowledgeor shows upaproblem withyour if theoutcomeofthesechecks Do notproceed withanouting conditions duringtheirrow all factorswhichmayaffect to ensure thattheyhaveassessed It istheresponsibility ofeveryone you goafloat: Questions toaskbefore page 45) (See Roles&Responsibilities, behaviour of the crew for thenavigation,safetyand the Vessel” and legallyresponsible Authorised steersare “Masterof Practice . understanding ofthisCode of and navigationtesttoprove their river havingcompletedasteering their clubtotakeaboatontothe Steers mustbeauthorisedby Is theSteersAuthorised? . . distribution . Club Rowing Safety Advisorfor by theTRRC via anemailtothe hazards, whichare usuallysent and noticesoftemporarylocal (see panelleft),SafetyBulletins will includeNoticestoMariners PLA andTRRCwebsites.These guidance whichisavailable onthe be aware oftheinformationand Recreational riverusersmust Topical riverinformation? help inanemergency carry amobilephonetosummon crews andscullers,where possible, It isrecommended thatcoaches, your clubhouse. a ‘RowerOnTheRiverFlag’from VTS priortogoingafloatandfly strongly advisedtoinformLondon rowing ontheDownriverArea are In additiontosigning-out,those boat failstoreturn . know whatprocedure tofollowifa an accident.Membersshouldalso afloat andinwhichboatcaseof a logorsign-upboard ofwhois Clubs are strongly advisedtokeep Who isafloat? .

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BEFORE YOU GO AFLOAT go contents How experienced experienced How crew? is the cox crew, of the experience The into should be taken or steers, to particularly with regard account, . and weather conditions the water of day is it? What time of day when Consider the time . Weekend planning your outing busy and particularly mornings are on what you may have an impact can achieve . your should not try to fulfil You of other river plans regardless navigation correct users: safety, of other river and consideration take priority users must always over any training objectives . Time restrictions on when time restrictions are There can navigate below Putney rowers Pier and above Cherry Garden (See Rowing in Central London, page 90) . . Low tide means shallows and less usable water to When is the tide predicted change? What colour will the Ebb tide fluvial flow warning flag be during the outing? Is the wind against the tide? Is the Barrier shut? Is the river swelling? What is the direction and height What is the direction of the tide? High tide means lumpier water if you cannot cannot if you is: guide A good clearly bank the opposite see . go afloat not you should then width is 300m at (The river 200m at Putney Greenwich, but Bridges and Hammersmith above Hammersmith) narrower Lightning lightning in your If you experience the river get off vicinity you should . as soon as possible afloat unless should go No crew elapsed since 30 minutes have the last visible lightning • • • • • What will the water What will the water like? conditions be • .

serious hazard than darkness . serious hazard Fog is often a more a safe haven . Fog is often a more during an outing you should find If you encounter reduced visibility If you encounter reduced is more than 200m . is more go afloat unless the visibility No attempt should be made to Visibility to fog . The Tideway is prone It may also reduce visibility It may also reduce feel much colder when wet . feel much colder when You will . You temperature perceived Rain can very much affect the affect Rain can very much Rain an opposite direction to the tide . to the an opposite direction wave height especially when it’s in when it’s wave height especially Wind will also have an effect on any an effect Wind will also have . exposure which cold is felt and can lead to which cold is felt effect which will lower the level at which will effect Wind can have an extra chilling have an extra chilling Wind can Wind . be considered ones should High temperatures as well as cold High temperatures Temperature Temperature conditions be like? conditions What will the weather weather will the What Are you wearing the right kit? Is your equipment adequate? Lighting your rowing boat Coxes and coaches MUST wear You must ensure that your boat Lights are to be displayed at all a Life Jacket – correctly fitted, well is in good working order before times of restricted visibility such maintained and regularly serviced going afloat . as mist, fog, rain or snow and (see Appendix A page 113) . Heel-restraints, hatches and obviously at night time or early You must ensure that you are bow-balls in particular must all morning . If in doubt, use lights . wearing suitable clothing for the be present and correctly fitted . All rowing crews must have the conditions . Your boat must carry a registered following lights firmly fixed to Wind, rain and cold temperatures and approved ID (see page 49) . their boat in low visibility . will require additional layers . Coaches MUST always use • On the bow: Peaked hats and sunglasses are a kill cord (see page 44) . a flashing white light – flashing recommended in sunny weather, If you discover a problem with to determine direction of travel especially for steers and coxes . your equipment, fix it before • On the stern: In low light or darkness, it is strongly proceeding with the outing . a constant white light recommended that rowers wear In the dark or reduced visibility BEFORE YOU GO AFLOAT The lights must be visible for 800m light-coloured or hi-vis clothing . your boat must be fitted with lights and also be visible through 180° – so that the boat effectively has lighting visible through 360° . Unidirectional lights are not permitted as they are not safe . Spare lights should be carried at all times . Additional lights or LED sticks, attached to the back of the bow or cox, are allowed and high visibility clothing and tape on the blades is strongly recommended . If you do not have the correct go back to contents lights, you do not go out . 15

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BEFORE YOU GO AFLOAT go contents Col Reg Rule 25 25 Rule Reg Col underway vessels Sailing oars under vessels and vessel underway a - A sailing shall exhibit: (ii) A sternlight(i) Sidelights may under oars d (ii) - A vessel prescribed exhibit the lights vessels, in this Rule for sailing she shall but if she does not, hand an electric at have ready lantern or lighted torch light which showing a white in sufficient shall be exhibited collision. time to prevent Col Reg Rule 20 and Application (Lights Shapes) by these The lights prescribed rules shall, if carried, also sunrise to be exhibited from visibility sunset in restricted and may be exhibited in all when it other circumstances is deemed necessary. contents go

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by passingmotorvessels. drawn-off theforeshore of washandwaterbeing you staysafe.Alsobeveryaware other riveruserstoensure that maintain agoodlookoutfor While boatingensure you try andfightagainstit. thanto with theunplannedturn the stream itmightbesafertogo accidentally getpulledround by to activelyprevent this.Ifyoudo sometimes –andyoumayhave to Be aware thatthestream willtry bow intothetidalstream . Tideway, alwaysboatwithyour When placingyourvesselonthe Going afloat pull the bows out – very quickly blades are markedwithred tape–strokeside andgreen tape–bowside. avoid usingleftandright,whichcausesconfusion.Ithelpsthatmost In coxlessboatsthesteersisfacingbackwards whichiswhyweshould – alwaysinthedirection oftraveltheboat. the conventionsofPortandStarboard are usedtodescribenavigation Because theriverbelowTeddington seaway, lockisaninternational Port &Starboard Port andstarboard alwaysrefer tothedirection oftravel of theboat. BOWSIDE STARBOARD STROKESIDE PORT STARBOARD BOWSIDE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION Lookout Col Reg Rule 5 Lookout Keeping a proper lookout is the single most essential feature of safe navigation . Every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper lookout by Failure to keep a proper lookout is the single biggest factor in collisions sight as well as by hearing as and near-misses between rowing boats and with fixed objects . well as by all available means For a coxless boat the maximum recommended time between appropriate in the prevailing checking over the shoulder should be five strokes – alternate shoulders circumstances and conditions are recommended . A coxless four travelling with the tidal stream could so as to make a full appraisal cover as much as 100m in five strokes . of the situation and of the risk When in heavy traffic, poor visibility, at the turn of the tide or navigating in of collision. the vicinity of the Restricted Zones, a more proactive lookout should be employed – a minimum of every three strokes is recommended . A cox’s first priority is the safe navigation of the boat, more so than good balance or quickest racing line . Whatever is being said to the cox by the crew or coach it is the cox, as legal Master of the Vessel who will be liable in the case of an accident . The same applies to the steers of a coxless boat, or sculler .

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act as power-driven vessels. Byelaw 27rowing boatsmust For thepurposes ofRule9& of 20metres ormore inlength. impede thepassageofa vessel Westminster Bridge mustnot sailing vesselnavigatingabove Westminster Bridge anda in lengthnavigatingabove a vesseloflessthan20metres under byelaw27.1(p.31), In additiontotheirobligations 27.2 Westminster Bridge of Tower Bridge)andabove Garden Pierisdownstream GardenCherry Pier(Cherry Vessels navigatingabove Byelaws 2012-Byelaw27 Port ofLondonThames practicable. starboard sideasissafeand or Fairwaywhichliestoher to theouterlimitofchannel or Fairwayshallkeepasnear the courseofanarrow channel (a) Avesselproceeding along Narrow Channels Col RegRule9 is safeandpracticable. Rowers are encouragedtonavigateasclosethestarboard bankas traffic flows are andpositionyourselfwellaway from them. of theriveratalltimes,asperColRegs.Observewhere themainriver vital thatyoukeepagoodlookoutandnavigateonthestarboard side In alllocationsalongthetidalThames,outsideRowingAreas, itis navigate tothestarboard sideofanychannelsoastopassport-to-port. Collisions atSea.Rule9aessentiallystatesthatallvesselsshould that applyare Regulations forPreventing ColRegs–TheInternational seaway,Because thetidalThamesisaninternational thenavigationlaws Outside theRowingCodeAreas (ColRegs) Positioning ontheriver–

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BASIC PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION go contents than a vessel not under than a vessel or a vessel command to in her ability restricted shall, if the manoeuvre of the case circumstances the admit, avoid impeding vessel safe passage of a draught by her constrained Col Reg Rule 18 18 Rule Reg Col Between Responsibilities Vessels vessel other 18 (d) Any .

Rowing boats have minimal . Rowing boats have

Fairway in the river, of the near the centre (see page 34) . your intentions clearly Large vessels have more draught (hull under the water) so will usually be draught (hull under the water) have more vessels Large at such times you give way and show that should always ensure tide . You whether the water level is high or low the water level is whether marked . and is not generally boats channel for larger It is a deeper side of the river as possible to the starboard as soon Fairway and return especially at low place on the river, to be in the “wrong” boats can appear The river can be roughly divided into three lanes which remain in place in remain lanes which into three divided can be roughly The river Fairway . and is called the channel lane is the main navigation The centre in the boats to larger shallow water so must give way draught and can use large and of places the Fairway is not in the centre NOTE: In a number General Navigation Rules (Col Regs) (Col Rules Navigation General Positioning on the river – river the on Positioning contents go

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BASIC PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION to

and theriver’s edge.Theselanesare knownastheInshore . Zone when rowing againstthetidalstream, usingthelanesbetweenFairway Col Regs(Rule9a).InsteadtheyshouldworktheslacksThismeans, Within therowing areas, rowers should notnavigateaccording to Positioning ontheriver–insideRowingCodeAreas however high thewateris. the bankassafe andpracticable, should bepositioned ascloseto against thetidalstream, rowers When usingtheInshore Zone, Think ofitasariverwithin ariver (rather thanthestarboard bank). the starboard sideoftheFairway rowers shouldbepositionedon When rowing withthetidalstream the tidalstream . used whenrowing against Inshore Zoneshouldonlybe In bothrowing codeareas the • • at crossing points: with buoysinimportantareas and the lanesare occasionallymarked In theUpriverRowingCodeArea Fairway Surrey orsouthedgeofthe Red buoysare alwaysonthe Fairway Middlesex ornorthedgeofthe Green buoysare alwaysonthe .

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BASIC PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION go contents or enter a fairway so as to or enter a fairway vessel obstruct another the along proceeding fairway. Port of London Thames Thames London of Port 2012 Byelaws 24 Byelaw of the Modifications International Regulations at Collisions for Preventing Regs) - Crossing Sea (Col must not cross (a) a vessel .

Outside the designated crossing zones, there are other local are zones, there crossing Outside the designated navigating is permitted for crews crossing where crossings using and their boathouse . Crews Zone between the Inshore must give way to all other navigation these local crossings Crossing must take place as quickly as is safely possible take place as quickly as is safely possible must Crossing possible route and by the shortest Do not cross in front of oncoming traffic in front Do not cross Fairway have right of way Any boats in the has cleared until the Fairway to have to wait Be prepared is completely clear is completely unless the Fairway may not cross You

•

• •

• rules to follow when doing it: when doing rules to follow where this should be done and this should be done Zones where Crossing places called specific are and there there and Fairway the cross have to the slacks , they work rowers Because Crossing the river in the Rowing Code Areas Code the Rowing in river the Crossing contents go

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BASIC PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION to

boat housestheyserve. Local Crossings forboathousesontheoppositebanktoInshore Zone.Thesecrossings are definedbythe Additionally there are yellowmarkerboards ontheshore thatmaybevisibleatlowerwater In theUpperTidewayRowingCodeArea thefourformal Crossing are Zones defined bybuoys–exceptatPutney Crossing theriver–UpperTidewayRowingCodeArea .There are alsofive .

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BASIC PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION go contents

These crossings are defined by the boat houses they serve . by the boat defined are . These crossings Zone Inshore for boat houses on the opposite bank to the bank to the on the opposite for boat houses Local Crossings also three are ) . There for diagrams Directions Area see Lower (see Lower landmarks by defined are Zones Crossing formal the four Area Rowing Code Tideway Lower In the Crossing the river – Lower Tideway Rowing Code Area Code Rowing Tideway – Lower river the Crossing Restricted Zones In Restricted Zones the Bridges can present particular hazards to navigation, both to rowers and following simple rules apply: other vessels, whose vision of rowing boats can be very easily obstructed • No stopping by the bridge buttresses . Every bridge within the Tideway Rowing Areas (unless in an emergency) has a Restricted Zone beneath it which generally extends approximately 75m either side of the bridge . • No turning A Restricted Zone generally only applies in the Fairway . The exception to this is at Kew Rail and Kew Stone bridges where they extend across the • No crossing whole river . Kew is the only place where these full width restrictions occur . • No overtaking In the Lower Rowing Area there is only one Restricted Zone, at Greenwich Ship Tier . This is the only restriction that is not in the vicinity of a bridge . • No baulking This restriction is more of an exclusion zone for the safety of small boats . (rowing deliberately slowly Outside the rowing areas, there are no formal Restricted Zones but all or doing exercises) bridges should be treated the same way and the same rules followed . FURTHER PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION FURTHER

7 8 7 go back to 7 8 contents 7 25 Stopping (aka easy-ing) FURTHER PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION

1• No stopping in the vicinity of 4• Do not stop abreast (along 6• Do not stop in front of or baulk the Crossing Zones (unless side) of any other vessels any vessels . Large power waiting for the Fairway to clear) including coaching launches driven vessels proceeding with and rowing boats . If in a group the tidal stream are severely 2• When rowing in the Inshore Zone always stop in line astern . This limited in their ability to stop always pull in as close as is safe applies in the Fairway or the and practicable to the bank, so 7• Do not stop in a Restricted Inshore Zone as not to block the Inshore Zone Zone close to or underneath If a coaching launch wishes any bridge 3• When rowing with the tidal to stop to talk to the crew the stream, wherever feasible stop 8• Avoid stopping close upstream coach must ensure they are as close as possible to the of fixed objects, such as not blocking the Fairway or the starboard edge of the Fairway . bridges, buoys, moored boats Inshore Zone If it will not obstruct oncoming and islands so that you will not traffic or increase risk of 5• Do not stop abreast of be swept onto them by collision, pull out of the navigation buoys especially the stream Fairway entirely at low water

1 4 5

6 4

1 8 5 3 2 go back to contents 26 Turning (aka spinning)

1• When turning into the Fairway (You may briefly move over to from the Inshore Zone, do the port side of the Fairway if not ‘spin’ on the spot in the you immediately turn out of the Inshore Zone . Instead wait Fairway and into the Inshore until the Fairway is clear and Zone – but only if it is clear to then turn onto the correct do so . Otherwise you must wait side of the Fairway on the starboard side of the Fairway until both the Fairway • When turning into the Inshore 2 and Inshore Zone are clear) Zone from the Fairway, ensure that there is enough space 3• No turning in a Crossing Zone . and that other vessels are Either turn before or after the Wait until the Fairway is completely not impeded . Boats already crossing clear before turning or crossing! rowing in the Inshore Zone • 4 Do not turn close to a bridge, have right of way it is a Restricted Zone

1 FURTHER PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION FURTHER 2 3 2 4 4

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FURTHER PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION go contents must not proceed abreast abreast proceed must not power-driven of another for the vessel except that purposes of overtaking other vessel; and not Tilburyness must which is overtake a vessel itself overtaking another vessel Port of London Thames Thames London of Port 15 - Byelaw 2012 Byelaws of the Modifications International Rules vessel (c) a power-driven above (d) a vessel in a fairway of this rule For the purposes rowing boats must act as power driven vessels.

4 2 boats may of two boats may A maximum in the Fairway abreast proceed is sufficient if there but only boats to do so and both room side on the starboard remain of the Fairway to rowers – this is a concession right) of Byelaw 15c (panel boats may not proceed Two they in the Fairway if abreast in the obstruct boats coming . They must other direction astern in line instead proceed Fairway In the • • 4 3 3 1

Inshore Zone the Inshore Boats in astern in line . should proceed important This is particularly the Inshore at low water when Zone can be very narrow proceed not proceed Boats should in the (side-by-side) abreast Zone Inshore

• Inshore Zone Inshore In the • 1 2 The rules for proceeding NOTE: The rules for proceeding and both in the Fairway abreast also apply Zone in the Inshore to coaching launches Proceeding abreast (aka side-by-side) (aka abreast Proceeding contents go

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FURTHER PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION to

(a) anyvesselovertaking Overtaking Col RegRule13 (1) Overtakingmanoeuvrings Overtaking Manoeuvres Direction 24 (as amended) Port ofLondon2011 for Navigationinthe General Directions being overtaken. of thewayvessel any othershallkeepout as riverbendsandbridges. additional constraintsuch particularly inareas of ability tonavigatesafely, do notprejudice their that thevesselsinvolved shall onlybeundertakenso Overtaking –intheFairway The overtakingcrew doesnothaverightofway 4 2 3 3 1 1 . Overtaking – in the Fairway Overtaking – in the Fairway FURTHER PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION

The overtaking crew does not have right of way .

1• Overtaking shall not take place if it puts the overtaking boat into the path of oncoming traffic 2• Overtaking should in general 5 1 be on the outside, i .e . in the faster tidal stream 3• The crew(s) being overtaken 3 should maintain course and speed – baulking the passage of an overtaking vessel is not permitted . (Variations of speed for training purposes do not constitute maintaining “course and speed”) 4• A single boat may overtake two slower boats – only if the Fairway is clear 6 1 5• Two boats may overtake one slower boat – only if the Fairway is clear 3 6• Two (or more) boats may not overtake two slower boats – under any go back to circumstances contents 30 Boats may row abreast abreast Boats may row a Restricted Zone through but only if they can both side on the starboard remain of the Fairway and can see that the Fairway ahead is clear of other vessels If the fairway is not clear then back in line boats must drop astern (single file) Overtaking shall not take place shall not take place Overtaking Zone . There in a Restricted space around is not sufficient vessels to large bridges for are boats safely if rowing react blocking the Fairway However – • • 1 2 2 1

Overtaking in Restricted Zones Restricted in Overtaking

to FURTHER PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION OF PRINCIPLES FURTHER

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contents FURTHERBASIC PRINCIPLES PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATIONOF NAVIGATION go Overtaking in the Inshore Zones FURTHER PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION

The overtaking crew does not have right of way .

1• Overtaking shall not take place if it puts the overtaking boat into the path of oncoming traffic

2• Overtaking should in general be on the outside 1 3• The crew(s) being overtaken 2 should maintain course and 4 speed – baulking the passage 3 of an overtaking vessel is not permitted (Variations of speed for training purposes do not constitute maintaining “course and speed”)

4• Boats may ‘undertake’ if the boat being passed is a long way off the bank, making an outside overtake hazardous • A boat should not overtake a 5 1 boat that is itself overtaking another boat – Only one boat 5 at a time may overtake in the

Inshore Zone 3 go back to contents 32 Col Reg Rule 18 Port of London Thames Rights of Way Responsibilities Between Byelaws 2012 - Byelaw 27 Vessels Vessels navigating above With regards to the rules of the Cherry Garden Pier (Cherry Except where rules 9, 10 and 13 river, rowing boats are considered Garden Pier is downstream otherwise require: to be powered vessels . of Tower Bridge) and above 18 (a) Westminster Bridge • All vessels in the Fairway A power driven vessel 27.1 A vessel of less than 40 (including rowing boats) have underway shall keep out metres in length navigating right of way over rowing boats of the way of: above Cherry Garden working the slacks, including at (i) a vessel not under command; Pier, and a sailing vessel Crossing Zones (ii) a vessel restricted in her navigating above Cherry • Rowing boats must give way ability to manoeuvre Garden Pier must not to larger motor vessels in the impede the passage of: (iii) a vessel engaged in fishing; Fairway because these vessels are restricted in their ability to (a) a vessel of 40 metres or (iv) a sailing vessel; manoeuvre more in length; or 18 (d) • Rowing boats must give way to (i) Any vessel other than a (b) a vessel engaged in sailing boats (unless the sailing vessel not under command towing. boat is crossing the Fairway) or a vessel restricted in her For the purposes of Rule 18 • Overtaking boats do not have ability to manoeuvre shall, & Byelaw 27, rowing boats right of way if the circumstances of the must act as power-driven case admit, avoid impeding Notwithstanding the above points, vessels and must keep out the safe passage of a vessel all vessels have a duty of care to of the way of all the types of FURTHER PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION FURTHER constrained by her draught avoid a collision (Col Regs, Rule 2) . vessels listed. They must also (ii) A vessel constrained by her give priority to vessels such draught shall navigate with as (but not limited to) Class V particular caution having Passenger vessels, tugs and go back to full regard to her special tows and large Dutch barges. contents condition. 33 FURTHER PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION Avoiding collisions – Head-on situations Col Reg Rule 14 Head-on situation Alterations of course should be taken in ample time to avoid collision . (a) When two power driven You should try to make your intentions obvious by means of a significant vessels are meeting change of direction . If necessary (and there is time), stop and then take-off on reciprocal or nearly again on an obviously different course . reciprocal courses so as to involve risk of collision Motor vessels may use a sound signal to communicate their intentions in each shall alter her course these situations (see page 37) . to starboard so that each However, when two vessels are on a head-on course and a collision shall pass on the port side is unavoidable without immediate action, both boats should take the of the other. emergency avoiding action shown below . (c) When a vessel is in any Essentially you should steer to starboard and thus return to the correct doubt as to whether such station . This means that both vessels should pass port-to-port . a situation exists she shall This rule applies to all vessels at all times . assume that it does exist and act accordingly.

For the purposes of this regulation, rowing boats must act as power-driven vessels.

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FURTHER PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION to

and early, decisiveactionshouldavoidthemeveroccurring necessity–generally, insituationsofdire recommended keepingagoodlookout only andtheactionsare rare are The scenariosdescribedandillustratedhere be forced ontothe“wrong” sideoftheFairwaytostayindeeperwater. A verylargemotorvessel,restricted byherdraughtmay, atlower tides, Avoiding collisions

– Head-onsituations correct station before continuing . immediately and safelytothe If so,theyshould alwaysreturn the wayeven ifitbreaks alltherules. may havetomovecompletely outof In extreme situationsrowing boats be takentoavoidacollision . safe option,thenanyactionshould Fairway isnotclear, nor isstoppinga is notclear, ortoportbecausethe Starboard becausetheInshore Zone If itisnotpossibletomove but onlyifthefairwayisclear may havetoconsidermovingport is madeearlyenough,rowing boats In thiscase,ifthechangeofcourse rowing boatintheInshore Zone. collision coursewithanother the rowing boatonapossible (correctly) tostarboardwould put However, sometimesmoving take earlyactiontoavoidcollision. I n thissituationrowing boatsmust .

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FURTHER PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION go contents KEEP A GOOD LOOKOUT KEEP A GOOD side of the side of the starboard navigate on the If in doubt, direction of the tide can be sure Fairway until you and navigating are how other crews Observe them about the state of the tide communicate with now to where you are where – it may be different and vice versa from they have just come make the necessary change to sure, Once you are if it is safe to do so your navigation – of the unsure when you are doing pieces Avoid tide direction Above all Tips on how to check the tide direction are in the in the are the tide direction check on how to Tips page 7 . However: section on Tide & Stream • • • • • – Navigating on the Turn of the tide of the Turn on the – Navigating

This slack water zone continually moves at the head continually moves at the head This slack water zone of the turning is a good indicator that you will tide and one tide navigation patternneed to change your from with the tide in the Fairway rowing to the other: from Zone or vice versa it in the Inshore against to rowing At the point where the tide is turning there is usually tide is turning the there At the point where water a zone of slack / still When travelling against it you could easily meet the could easily meet against it you When travelling you comes towards changing tide as it When travelling with the tide you can easily overtake you can easily with the tide When travelling tide the changing It is possible for a rowing boat to travel faster than faster than to travel boat for a rowing It is possible moving the tide is

•

• • • • Avoiding collisions Avoiding Shouted warnings Sound signals

If you feel that a risk of collision is developing do not Power-driven vessels, especially the larger commercial assume that the other boat is aware of it and call out (passenger) vessels are much more likely to use sound in good time to warn them . The conventional calls signals than they are to shout . for rowers are: Emergency vessels such as the lifeboat and police will • “Take a look [other boat]” use their siren rather than shout . – potential risk of collision Rowers must be aware of the meaning of sound signals, usually given via a horn or whistle . • “Ahead [other boat]” – imminent risk of collision In the Upriver Area sound signals are most likely to apply to the Class V passenger vessels, especially • “Hold it up” when using Kew Pier . – precautionary stop Below Putney and in the Lower Area use of sound • “Hold it hard!” signals will be common amongst the busy commercial – Emergency stop traffic . All rowers when hearing such a call in their vicinity The most important sound signals for rowers to should take a good look to ascertain whether it remember are as follows: pertains to them or not .

Coaching launches are in a much better position to see oncoming traffic and the formation of potentially dangerous situations . Coaches should try to warn

FURTHER PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION FURTHER rowers of such situations before they develop whilst avoiding giving specific navigational instructions .

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FURTHER PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION go contents Port of London Thames Bridges – navigation & marking Byelaws 2012 - Rule 36 Bridges Navigating through Bridges All bridges are subject to the 36.1 When the arch or span There are 29 bridges over the following rules both within and of a bridge is closed to main channel between Teddington outside the Rowing Code Areas: navigation, the person in and Tower Bridge . The height • No stopping control of the bridge must and width are of no concern to (unless in an emergency) display at or as close to rowers, but currents can be strong • No turning the centre as practicable around bridges and they should of that arch or span, or in always keep well away from bridge • No crossing a position agreed with the buttresses and avoid passing other • No overtaking harbourmaster: vessels close to a bridge, which will • No baulking often be very limited in their ability (rowing deliberately slowly) (a) by day, three red discs 0.6 to manoeuvre . metres in diameter at the points of an equilateral Arch lights/marking triangle with the apex The Fairway (main channel) is downwards and the base marked with two amber lights horizontal; and above the arch (pictured, right) . The PLA uses an inverted triangle (b) by night, three red lights of three red lights to identify when Fairway marker in similar positions to the a bridge arch is closed to navigation discs displayed by day. (pictured, below right) . No vessels should ever navigate

FURTHER PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION FURTHER through a closed arch, this is both for the rowers’ personal safety and also for the safety of those working on the bridge structure . go back to Any arch closure will be announced Closed arch marker contents via a Notice to Mariners . 39

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FURTHER PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION go contents . TH NOR These numbers only apply to only apply numbers These span the river that arches illustrated below The example Bridge (road) is Kew Stone Arch #1 Arch Middlesex Closed arch Centre Fairway Arch #2 Arch However, the convention (when (when the convention However, in NTMs for example) described starting the arches is to number . #1 arch north bank with the from Surrey Surrey #3 Arch

SOUTH

. – Middlesex Centre – on: Surrey to which side of the river they are are side of the river they to which described bridge arches according according bridge arches described Rowing Area, have historically have historically Rowing Area, Rowers, especially in the Upper the Upper in especially Rowers, Bridges – arch numbering – arch Bridges contents go

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COACHING to

• • • Coaching –roles &responsibilities their instruction actions ofthecrews under responsibility forthesafe ’ andhaving ‘in locoparentis are perceived asacting Coaches ofjunior/novicecrews teaching ofsafenavigation as theyare responsible forthe accredited atthehighestlevel, Coaches mustbesteers skills ofnavigationtotheircrews the principles,knowledgeand It istheirresponsibility toteach knowledge oftheTidewayCode. Coaches musthaveathorough 1 1 • • • • the equipment made toensure thesafetyof An equipmentcheckmustbe their crews toboat assessment before theyallow Coaches mustmakeafullrisk for volunteercoaches also strongly recommended coaching qualifications.Itis coach’s endorsementtotheir services musthaveaTideway Coaches whoare paidfortheir Power Boatqualification preferably aRYA Level2 instruction inlaunchdriving, Coaches musthavehadsuitable 2 2 1 2 • • • • Launch positioning rowers andothers causing minimumwashfor forotherriverusers, concern Coaches mustalwaysshow minimum effective volume should atalltimesbethe used before 0700hrsand Megaphones mustnotbe launch out ofposition bythecoaching correct lineandnotbe pushed the rowing boattostay onthe crews .Thisistohelpencourage launch totheoutsideoftheir Coaches shouldpositiontheir opposite sideoftheriver might havetobeonthe against theebbtide),coaches in theInshore Zone(especially mean thatwhentheircrews are When theriverisbusythismay This includescoachingboats. ” should proceedinlineastern Zone.Insteadthey Inshore (side-by-side)inthe abreast “Boats shouldnotproceed

COACHING Port of London Thames Byelaws 2012, Byelaw 16 – SPEED LIMITS Speed, load & wash limits • Coaching launches have a 16.1 The master of a power- 16.2 The parts of the Thames to dispensation from the PLA to driven vessel navigating which byelaw 16.1 applies are in a part of the Thames to exceed the speed limit BUT (a) the Thames above which this byelaw applies only when coaching crews . Wandsworth Bridge; At all other times they are limited must ensure that it does (b–g) All creeks below Tower to 8 knots (see right) and should not exceed a speed of 8 Bridge navigate to the starboard side knots through, on or over the water, provided that • Launches should not exceed 16.3 The master of a power-driven this byelaw does not apply: their maximum load capacity . vessel navigating between In a ‘tin-fish’ this is usually (b) where a vessel, having Wandsworth Bridge and Margaretness Limit must two people for the purpose of this byelaw been approved ensure that it does not exceed • Coaching launches must carry by a harbourmaster as a speed of 12 knots through, no more than two people, one which may exceed a on or over the water, provided unless they remain below the speed of 8 knots through that this byelaw does not speed limit at all times the water, is engaged in apply: • Launches may be wash-tested escorting a rowing boat in if the vessel falls within the by the PLA and approved to training; exceptions described in byelaw carry more than two people (d) where the vessel has 16.1 a), or when coaching . Please contact been approved by the where a vessel, having for the the PLA for more details harbourmaster to exceed a purpose of this byelaw been • Note that a ‘tin-fish’ coaching speed of 8 knots through approved by the harbourmaster launch should not be considered the water, in connection as one which may exceed a speed a ‘safety’ or ‘rescue’ vessel . with a river event that is of 12 knots through the water, is Coaches should always carry a subject to the requirements engaged in: mobile phone (in a waterproof of byelaw 9, and if it does escorting a rowing boat in training; so in accordance with such case) or VHF radio to summon escorting a boat race or regatta. approval. assistance from the Coastguard/ go back to RNLI in case of an emergency contents 42 contents go

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COACHING to

(ii) apowerdrivenvesselof (c) (i)Apowerdrivenvessel (iv) asternlight. (iii) sidelights;and (i) amastheadlightforward; (a) Apower-driven vessel Shapes) (Lightsand Underway Power drivenVessels Col RegRule23 sidelights. if practicable, alsoexhibit round whitelightandshall, of thisRuleexhibitanall- prescribed inparagraph (a) may inlieuofthelights does notexceed7knots whose maximumspeed less than7metres inlength light andsidelights; exhibit anall-round white paragraph (a)ofthisRule the lightsprescribed in in lengthmaylieuof of lessthan12metres underway shallexhibit: go afloat.You are breaking thelaw If you(andyourcrews) donothavethecorrect lights,youdonot back-up torch aboard thelaunch. driver, plusportandstarboard sidelights.You shouldalwayscarrya white light,visiblethrough 360°atleast300mmabovetheheadof At timesofreduced visibilitylaunchesmustdisplayastablemasthead Lighting coachinglaunches Coaching –equipment .

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COACHING go contents Test them regularly to them regularly Test that the engine ensure cord stops when the kill mechanism is operated. is cord that the Make sure in good condition. cord Always attach the to the Master, securely the engine ideally before is started, but certainly the vessel is put before into gear. Stop the engine before transferring the kill cord to another driver of the vessel . It is essential that all coaching coaching all that essential It is an with fitted are launches carry (and cord kill operational Following incidents a spare). the MAIB and elsewhere, following issued the RYA which the PLA safety advice, all to recommends strongly operators: owners and • • • • Further information regarding the use of kill cords can be . Website found on the RYA

Kill Cords in a launch MUST Coaches attached a kill cord always use to wear a . Failure to the engine the coach and puts kill cord risk and is a serious others at of safety breach only one serves The kill cord engine when purpose, to stop the the from the driver moves away to use a kill . Failure controls serious a is considered cord contravention . .

RNLI in case of an emergency RNLI in case 113) . (see Appendix A page assistance from the Coastguard/ from assistance serviced maintained and regularly case) or VHF radio to summon radio to summon case) or VHF fitted, well Jacket – correctly mobile phone (in a waterproof (in a waterproof mobile phone a Life Coaches MUST wear Coaches should always carry a should always carry Coaches Life Jackets Communications Coaching – equipment Coaching contents go

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ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES to

is £5,000 at timeofpublication(2015) maximumfine The statutory on indictmenttoafine]. maximum andonconviction exceeding [thestatutory and liabletoafinenot shall beguiltyofanoffence (b) inamannerliabletoinjure (a) withoutduecare and vessel ontheThames A masterwhonavigateshis navigation General rulesfor amended) -Section108 Port ofLondonAct1968(as Thames; installation inorbesidethe level) oranystructure or or belowmeanhighwater Thames (whetherabove vessels, thebanksof or endangerpersons,other attention; or coaching boats. a boatontothe river–including authorised by theirclubstotake All steersshould besuitably safety andbehaviourofthe crew . responsible for the navigation, As such,thesteersislegally master ofthevessel. (steers), isdeemedtobethe coxless boat,thesteersperson the coxswainor, inthecaseofa In thecontextofPLAregulations, The Vessel Master a suitablelifejacketifnot. They mustbeabletoswimorwear set outbytheirclub. familiar withemergency procedures of thisCodePracticeandbe They shouldunderstandthebasics their ownabilityandexperience. environmental conditionsplus in andalsoforassessingthe that theyare abouttogoafloat for checkingtheequipment Each crew memberisresponsible Risk Assessment Personal Responsibility water and useakill cord whileonthe afloat andmustwearalife jacket check allequipmentbefore going As forthecrew, coachesshould coaching qualifications. coach’s endorsementtotheir qualification andhaveaTideway of theRYA level2powerboat services mustholdaminimum Coaches whoare paidfortheir safe navigationontheTideway responsible fortheteachingof at thehighestlevel,astheyare Coaches mustbesteersaccredited this TidewayCode. to, thenavigationregulations and knowledge ofandabilitytoadhere of vesselswithrespect totheir inexperienced, toactasmasters of thoseunderage,orwhoare when determiningthesuitability this factintheirriskassessment coxswains andsteers,shoulduse ofJunior those ‘inlocoparentis’ Bearing thisinmindcoachesand Coaches’ responsibility . .

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ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES go contents Others’ responsibilities Others’ Council Rowing Regional Thames is one of 10 regional The TRRC whose representatives councils National Rowing’s sit on British for . It is responsible Committees of and resourcing the development . region in the Thames rowing and navigation This includes safety the busiest rowing on the Tideway, a and provides river in the country the clubs and between link/buffer Rowing the PLA via the Regional . Safety Advisor (RRSA) uthority Port of London A 95 miles PLA operations cover of the River Thames between the Lock . Its estuary and Teddington and is to keep commercial role and users safe, protect leisure and enhance the environment the use of the river for promote trade and travel . The PLA is ultimately responsible the navigation rules for enforcing this Rowing including of the river, Code . . .

This Code of Practice Notices to Mariners Safety Bulletins Fluvial Flag warnings the RRSA Advice from

Information distribution Information responsible also Clubs are members of any for informing to safety relevant information on the Tideway and navigation any or could be This information issued by the all of the following Rowing PLA, TRRC or British • • • • • Safety advice All clubs must have a nominated Club Rowing Safety Advisor it is to advise (CRSA) whose role the club committee and captaincy on all aspects of water safety ultimately the it is However, of the club Captain responsibility and other club officers to ensure that any advice is implemented to . and adhered

the TRRC website accreditation can be found on More information about steers steers and coaches . visiting, non-Tideway coxes, about the responsibilities for about the responsibilities See panel on page 54 for details accredited steers . accredited must keep an up-to-date record of must keep an up-to-date record suitably qualified person and clubs suitably qualified person and clubs Accreditation must be given by a must be Accreditation fast flowing with strong tidal sets . tidal strong fast flowing with understanding that the Tideway is understanding that competent to steer, and show an competent to steer, For accreditation they must be they For accreditation of Practice . knowledge of the Tideway Code knowledge of the prove their understanding and their understanding prove steering and navigation test to steering and navigation have completed an appropriate appropriate have completed an Any coach, cox or steers must Any coach, cox or in place . System Steers Accreditation Authorised have an Authorised the PLA to All Tideway clubs are required by required clubs are All Tideway Authorised Steers Accreditation Steers Authorised Clubs’ responsibilities Clubs’ contents go

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ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES to

• • • • • The organisermustprovide: before the event. as possible,atleastfourweeks Harbourmaster asfarinadvance of aneventmustadvisethe matches ofanykind.Theorganiser Head races,regattas andprivate regular outing.Thisincludes the riverforanythingotherthana An ‘event’isclassedasuseof Events’ responsibilities their event non-Tideway clubs visiting access theRowingCodefor information onhowto or reward in theeventworkingforhire details ofanyboatsinvolved arising asaresult oftheevent against anycostsorclaims the PortofLondonAuthority containing anindemnityfor a signedStandard EventLetter event plan a riskassessmentand proof ofpublicliabilityinsurance

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ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES go contents to organise or promote a or promote to organise stunt, regatta, boat race, exhibition, procession, race air display, firework or other river event, to the must provide findings harbourmaster the risk of any comprehensive as assessment requested consultation of the a result in under byelaw 9.2 event of the respect in question. The risk identify assessment must and hazards the relevant any suitable procedures, and other risk precautions to be measures control implemented to ensure any risk to persons or navigational safety or both is mitigated and maintained as low as reasonably practicable. 9.4 Any person who proposes who proposes 9.4 Any person promote a boat race, regatta, a boat race, regatta, promote exhibition, stunt, procession, race or air display, firework event on or over other river with the the Thames except consent of the harbourmaster. a to organise or promote stunt, boat race, regatta, exhibition, procession, air race or display, firework on or over other river event consult the Thames, must on with the harbourmaster the navigational and safety the issues arising from event and give the proposed harbourmaster at least four weeks’ notice of the proposed event. vessel in or in connection with such an event must comply with the instructions of a to it. harbourmaster relating Port of London Thames Byelaws 2012 - Byelaw 9 Byelaw - 2012 Byelaws Thames London of Port PROCESSIONS REGATTAS, RACES, BOAT EVENTS RIVER OTHER AND 9.1 A person must not organise or must not organise 9.1 A person proposes 9.2 Any person who 9.3 Every person navigating a

Safety Advisor. contacting the Regional Rowing found on the TRRC website or by events on the Tideway can be events on the Tideway More information about running at least one month’s notice . at least one month’s river closure, which requires requires which river closure, necessary, must have a full necessary, Harbourmaster deems it Harbourmaster deems more than 99 craft, or if the than 99 craft, more Any event that will involve Any event that will other (Head Races for example) . other (Head Races run in a similar fashion to each fashion to each run in a similar possible for events which will be for events which possible Joint Notices to Mariners are to Mariners are Joint Notices by the Harbourmaster, at least four by the Harbourmaster, . is required weeks’ notice If a Notice to Mariners is required is required Mariners to If a Notice contents go

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ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES to

page 115forTidewayclubcodes club codeorseeAppendixCon Contact BritishRowingforyour or training,includingforeign crews . visiting theTidewayforHeadraces your clubandincludesallboats This IDshouldberegistered with plus three numbers contain athree letterclubcode a sixfigure IDnumber the ThamesTidewaymustdisplay All rowing andcoachingboatson Boat Identification .Itshould boating licence. half thecostofpurchasing a ID withtheEAisapproximately The costofregistering yourboat separate EAboatinglicence. on EAwaterswithoutrequiring a can thenbeusedoff theTideway, Any boatwithanEAregistered ID with theEnvironment Agency(EA). ID numberscanalsoberegistered ID Specification Position: Colour: Size: Font: ideally attheforward can beanycolourbut 60mm capheight(50mm Ariel, Helveticaorsimilar board (bow) endofthesax be easilylegible colour oftheshelland must contrastwiththe on smallsaxboards) ‘sans serif’typeface

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ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES go contents Coaches must not use a megaphone must not use a . Coaches Noise Pollution Noise live on or those who considerate towards Please be river near the using should avoid hours and all rowers 0700 before language . foul or abusive Health of the risk of Weil’s be aware Rowers should always . after heavy rainfall particularly rodents disease from going before should be covered All cuts and grazes occurs during an outing, afloat . If a bleeding wound and treat soon as you return as wash it thoroughly . as an infection risk both boats and blade handles that It is recommended clean water after every outing . washed with are eating . and before hands after rowing Always wash your

requested from Thames Water Thames from requested . Pollution alerts can be sewage discharges from tending to have a greasy brown film on the surface brown greasy tending to have a sewage-derived litter and debris, as well as the river sewage-derived litter You can usually see if the river is polluted by seeing can usually see if the You . health is increased possible risk to your Avoid rowing when pollution is likely and a when pollution rowing outfalls . Avoid often released into the river from combined sewage river from into the often released After heavy or prolonged rainfall, screened sewage is rainfall, screened After heavy or prolonged eyesore and menace to wildlife . and menace eyesore Plastic bottles are a particular tide . Plastic bottles are can be taken by the Do not drop your litter in the river or leave it where it river or leave it where your litter in the Do not drop Water Pollution Water and take care not to disturb the wildlife of the Thames . wildlife of the not to disturb the care and take All users of the river should be environmentally friendly be environmentally of the river should All users Environment Environment, Pollution & Health & Pollution Environment, Port of London Thames Byelaws 2012 – Byelaw 8 Emergencies

8.1 Where any vessel has, whilst propelled by paddles or oars; In an emergency, call 999 and ask in the Thames: j) suffered any other accident for the Coastguard . You will need a) sunk or is in danger of sinking; normally required to be to provide details of your location on the river . b) been abandoned; reported to the Marine Accident Investigation Branch c) become derelict; Mobile phones or the Maritime & Coastguard It is strongly recommended d) been in collision with another Agency, or both. vessel, shore facility, the river that coaches (plus crews and 8.2 A written report must be embankment, a structure scullers, where possible), carry submitted by the vessel including any part of a bridge a mobile phone to summon help master to the harbourmaster, or a berthed or moored vessel in an emergency situation . as soon as practicable after or object; the submission of the verbal VHF radio e) been damaged or caused report, required by byelaw A VHF handset is recommended damage to anything (including 8.1 above. The written in busy commercial traffic areas a vessel); report must give the full to make other river users aware of f) been or is on fire or has details of the occurrence, your intentions and to find out the suffered an explosion; in a form prescribed by the intentions of other vessels . g) taken the ground or stranded Harbourmaster. NOTE: All users of VHF must have (not being a vessel which

COMMUNICATION & REPRORTING COMMUNICATION proper training and certification. has intentionally taken the Note: In respect of Byelaw 8 (a), ground); (b) and (c), incidents will also be Behaviour of motor vessels h) run into, fouled or damaged reported to the PLA and in the Any concerns about poor / abusive any light, buoy, beacon or case of (b) and (c) only when behaviour or navigation by motor other aid to navigation; the damage is valued at a cost vessels should be reported as soon i) suffered any person falling more than £500 at cost to repair. as possible to London VTS: However, all incidents involving overboard except in relation Telephone 020 8855 0315 go back to to a recoverable capsize of personal injury must also be contents or use VHF Channel 14 . a sailing dinghy or a vessel reported directly to the PLA. 51

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COMMUNICATION & REPRORTING go contents Capsizes – with other boats Collisions stationary Collisions – with piers etc .) objects (bridges, Grounding Near misses Poor navigation Unsafe navigation behaviour Inappropriate Inconsiderate behaviour Personal Injury No life jacket No kill cord Examples of the sort of incidents of the sort of incidents Examples are: be reported that must • • • • • • • • • • • • Further information about reporting can be incidents on the Tideway found on the TRRC website or from your Club Rowing Safety Advisor.

. Incidents should be reported Incidents should be reported within seven days . the RNLI Any incident where is called must be reported within 24 hours

Rowing incidents Rowing on the incidents All rowing-related to the reported must be Tideway Rowing using the British TRRC by system This can on-line reporting Rowing via the British be accessed website . be reported Incidents should also or safety to your club captain particularly if it involves advisor, or personal damage to a boat injury using all crews This is the case for or not they the Tideway whether Thames Region . based in the are • • incidents are All Tideway rowing by the Tideway Code reviewed Panel (see page 53) .

This should also . This should

has finished . to start and again once the event London VTS that the event is about London VTS that the event is about Events organisers should inform should inform Events organisers Cherry Garden Pier (see page 90) . Cherry Garden below Chelsea Bridge and above into or through Central London into or through London VTS if they intend to row London VTS if they intend to row All rowing boats must inform All rowing . your clubhouse from and fly a ‘Rower On The River Flag’ and fly a ‘Rower London VTS prior to going afloat London VTS prior are strongly advised to inform advised strongly are rowing on the Lower Rowing Area Lower Rowing Area on the rowing In addition to signing-out, those In addition to signing-out, . is overdue if a crew advised on the correct procedure procedure advised on the correct All club members should be All club members keep a log or use a sign-out board board or use a sign-out keep a log the river on are . all crews time of expected return Clubs are strongly advised to advised strongly Clubs are steers which boat and to indicate time and departure indicate the Who is afloat? Who Communications & Incident reporting & Incident Communications contents go

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COMMUNICATION & REPRORTING to

by thePLA. TRRC Discipline Codeandalsoleadto intervention number ofpointsmaymake aclubsubjecttothe Very seriousincidentsortheaccrualofanexcessive appropriate adviceandhelp. the RegionalRowingSafety Advisor, whowillgive be required tojustifytheir safetyprocedures to Clubs whosecrews accruetoomanypointsmay adherence to,theRowingCode. give anindicationofaclub’s understandingof,and in asimilarwaytodrivingoffences andthesepoints Points are awarded toaclubforCodecontraventions may berequired . decide onanyappropriate adviceorsanctionsthat theTideway,framework governing willadjudicatethen who hasgreat experienceandknowledgeofthelegal recommendations totheChairman.TheChairman, reports .Panelmembersassesseachreport andmake clubs whopeer-review alltheTideway-related incident This panelconsistsofmembersseveralTideway means oftheTidewayCodePanel. adherence totheRowingCode.Thisisdoneby to self-regulate itsmembers,theirbehaviourand the TidalThames,rowing communityisexpected Although thePLAisultimatelyresponsible forpolicing The TidewayCodePanel intervention oftheemergency services and/orPLA . crew inthewater(but notasimplecapsize)and the and damage to othervessels.Suchincidents involve serious incidentinvolvingrisk tolifeortotalshipwreck A serious,possiblyreckless incidentorpotentially 8 points–Incidentresulting inpotential risktolife services .Alsobringingthesportinto disrepute . potential involvementofoutside agenciesoremergency Involving damagetoboatsorinjurycrew andthe 4 points–Materialincident incident occurred (eg.nearmiss) crew orothercrews indangerbutnomaterial Navigational error orpoorconductthatputsyour 2 points–Clearbreach oftheRowingcode Rowing Code. any othervesselsbutstillnotcomplyingwiththe Obvious navigationalerror, usuallynotinvolving 1 point–Minorcodeinfringement assessment inthisspecificarea . Review yournavigationalknowledge/conduct/risk 0 points–Adviceonly assessed andawarded onthefollowingbasis: of thepanelmembersorChairman.Pointsare Penalty pointsare notsimplythesubjectiveopinion

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COMMUNICATION & REPRORTING go contents Clubs visiting the Tideway the visiting Clubs Visiting, to not have do clubs non-Tideway system (but it is accreditation have a steers Tideway regular for recommended strongly that Visitingvisitors). clubs must ensure fully are steers and coaches their coxes, Code of Practice with the Tideway conversant It is the visiting club’s going afloat. before their hosts, to seek advice from responsibility or the TRRC if they are the event organisers unsure. Tideway Code is not a Ignorance of the of an incident and defence in the event will be applied. the same sanctions host visiting, non-Tideway Tideway clubs that boating outings or provide clubs for training expected to for Tideway Head races are navigation basic advice on Tideway provide to their visitors if requested. Visiting clubs cannot use ignorance of clubs cannot use ignorance . Visiting

temporary loss of British Rowing Affiliation a ban from racing in Tideway events a ban from (including the major Head races)

the Tideway or navigation . This applies to all clubs and not just those based on This applies to all clubs and not just poor safety the Rowing Code as a defence against • • subject to the following sanctions: or fail to improve their safety procedures may be may be their safety procedures or fail to improve Clubs whose crews repeatedly flout the Rowing Code repeatedly Clubs whose crews Sanctions . into account by the Code Panel and this will be taken respond to any report made against one of their crews made against one of their crews report to any respond In all cases, clubs will be given the opportunity to In all cases, clubs Right to respond junior crew is involved in an incident . is involved junior crew This is particularly the case where a the case where . This is particularly work or exercises overrule a steers’ correct navigation for the sake of any navigation correct overrule a steers’ Coaches should not . Coaches crews to their skills of navigation responsible for teaching the principles, knowledge and the principles, knowledge for teaching responsible have a thorough knowledge of the Tideway Code, is the Tideway Code, knowledge of have a thorough subject to additional points as the coach, who must as the coach, who additional points subject to Incidents where a crew is being coached may be coached may be is being a crew where Incidents Coaching Permanent Notices to Mariners Teddington Lock to Syon Crossing P19 2014 – Reduced Upriver Depths Above Syon Crossing the Thames Mariners are reminded that Tideway is not part of the Rowing depths in the upper reaches Area and therefore Col Regs apply . of the tidal Thames are greatly affected over the low water This means that you should period by the amount of land navigate to the starboard side of water flowing over Teddington the river at all times, regardless Weir. of what the tide is doing . The area particularly affected lies You should aim to be as close to between Kew Railway Bridge and the starboard bank as is safe and Richmond half–tide lock. Richmond Lock practicable in both directions . Under low flow conditions water levels in the above area If the half-tide barrier is down at will remain at or less than chart Richmond Lock it is recommended datum between three hours that you should not proceed any UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS before and one hour after the further but turn and return time of predicted low water at (unless touring) . Richmond Lock. Low water levels Beware that in the vicinity of of 0.5 metres below Chart Datum Richmond the river can get very are to be expected. busy, particularly in the summer, During such periods of reduced with hired rowing boats . Richmond depths, Masters of vessels canoe club also use this stretch navigating upriver of Putney for training . should only do so with caution and should also make every Note the NTM in the panel opposite effort to avoid impeding the with regard to low water hazards for passage of commercial vessels, Teddington Lock large motor vessels . They only have which are highly constrained in narrow channels to navigate in . go back to contents their ability to manoeuvre in such Please do not impede them . conditions. 55

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UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS go contents For general navigation rules in the rowing area please please area the rowing rules in navigation For general Navigation . These Principles of Basic/Further to refer busy details within the specific describe directions in short described . They are Area Upper Rowing . Crossing Syon from moving downriver sections, is described first, the ebb tide In each section, tide descriptions . followed by flood

Within this area rowers must rowers area . Within this

) . buoys (see page 21 Fairway is marked by navigation This is the only area on the river where the edge of the the edge of the where on the river only area This is the Park steps at Putney Park steps tide . against the the slacks red navigation buoy in Syon Reach and the Bishop’s Bishop’s Syon Reach and the buoy in navigation red Code, i .e . working to the Rowing according navigate is between the the is between Code Area Rowing Tideway Upper The The Upper Tideway Rowing Code Area Code Rowing Tideway Upper The contents go

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UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS to

Syon Crossing from theSurrey bank. This istheSyonCrossingZone,lookingupriver from ColRegstotheUpperRowingArea . It iswhere changes thenavigationpattern Syon Reach & Kew Bend – including Kew bridges UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS

This section of river is in the Rowing Area and has many hazards including: • Kew ‘Stone’ and Kew ‘Rail’ bridges with shallow inshore channels at low tide • Two (unique) full width Restricted Zones around both bridges • Multiple piers, moorings and pontoons • Seven red navigation buoys • The entrance to the Grand Union canal • A strong tidal set • Four islands (Aits)

go back to contents 58 Syon Reach & Kew Bend – Navigating on the ebb tide

• When rowing inbound/upriver against the EBB tide, stay in the Inshore Zone, as close to the Surrey bank as is safe and always inside the red buoys

• When rowing outbound/ downriver with the EBB tide stay on the starboard side of the Fairway closer to the Surrey bank but outside the red buoys • Take extra care not to be pushed over to the port/

UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS Middlesex side of the Fairway by the set of the EBB tide

go back to contents 59 UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS Syon Reach & Kew Bend – Navigating with the ebb tide

When rowing with the ebb tide, not staying to the starboard side of the Fairway is the biggest navigational issue in this section . The diagrams illustrate this problem: • Inshore Zone – for rowing up river against the tide • Starboard side of the Fairway – the correct navigation line • Set of the tide – this port side line is incorrect and caused by tidal set plus a lack of active correction by the steers

Looking upriver at Brentford Ait from Kew Stone bridge

Looking downriver at Kew Stone Bridge centre arch from the Fairway Looking across at Harbour Master Pontoon from the Surrey bank

go back to contents 60 Kew Rail Bridge – Navigating against the ebb tide

If there is sufficient water, always use If the Surrey (#5) Arch of Kew Rail is dry, crews the Surrey (#5) Arch of Kew Rail when may carefully navigate through the #4 arch as follows: rowing against the ebb tide . • Stop well before the bridge and check the Fairway is clear • If the Fairway is not clear you must wait . Crews out-bound in the Fairway have right of way • If it is clear, move into the Fairway and row quickly through, staying as close to the buttress as possible • Move immediately back into the Inshore Zone once beyond the bridge buttress, inside the red buoy UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS However, the Surrey (#5) arch of Kew Rail can ‘dry out’ at low water .

go back to contents 61 UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS

Stay as close to the buttress as possible

(#5) (#4)

Usual Inshore Zone Alternative line line through the – but only if the Surrey arch is dry Fairway is clear

go back to contents 62 Kew Stone (road) Bridge – Navigating against the ebb tide

If there is sufficient water, always use If the Surrey (#3) Arch of Kew Stone is dry, passing though the Surrey (#3) Arch of Kew Stone when the middle arch against the ebb tide is not recommended . rowing against the ebb tide . Rowers should not proceed any further up-river . You may not discover that Surrey arch of Kew Stone is dry until you get there . A good indicator that this might be the case is that the Surrey arch (#5) of Kew Rail is also dry .

1 Turning in front of the bridge is very hazardous

If you suspect that Kew Stone may be impassable then you 2 should turn before the red Harbour Master buoy UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS However, the Surrey (#3) arch of Kew Stone can ‘dry out’ at low water . 1 2

If you are in any doubt, go back to turn back before the buoy contents – or even before Kew Rail 63 UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS Note: The pier just down-river of Kew Stone is a scheduled stopping point for Class V 1 If you do get to Kew Stone and the arch is dry, turning remains the recommended course of action but do so with EXTREME passenger vessels, which operate CAUTION being aware of vessels that might be coming down-river mostly in the summer months. These large vessels are likely However, if you are with a coach who can act as a spotter to check 3 to turn around in the Fairway that the Fairway above the bridge is clear then you may continue below the bridge and alongside but with EXTREME CAUTION of Kew Pier. • The Fairway must be confirmed completely clear by the coach Rowers should take extra care before any such manoeuvre is attempted in this area and listen out for any • Take the centre arch (#2) and return to Inshore Zone as quickly sound signals (see page 37) which as possible would indicate activity at the pier by a Class V vessel. Rowers should always give way to a Class V in this vicinity as it is limited in its ability to manoeuvre by the depth of the river. 3

If you are without a coaching

boat, turn back before the buoy go back to Looking upriver at Kew Stone Bridge contents – or even before Kew Rail – a Class V manoeuvring at Kew Pier 64 Syon Reach & Kew Bend – Navigating on the flood tide

• Rowing inbound/upriver with the FLOOD tide, stay on the starboard side of the Fairway closer to the Middlesex bank

• Rowing outbound/downriver against the FLOOD tide stay on in the Inshore Zone, as close to the Surrey bank as is safe and always inside the red buoys UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS

go back to contents 65 Mortlake Reach – including Chiswick Bridge UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS

This section of river is in the Rowing Area and has many hazards including: • Chiswick Bridge (Restricted Zone) • A very irregular and shallow foreshore in the Inshore Zone at low tide • The Chiswick Bridge Crossing Zone • Two local crossings • Two red navigation buoys • A strong tidal set • The entrance to Chiswick Marina • Five boathouses (including UL which houses numerous rowing clubs)

This is a busy section of the river and is a popular 1000m regatta course over the summer .

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UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS to

• • • • Mortlake Reach–Navigatingontheebbtide on theMiddlesexbank Inshore Zoneandtheclubs local crossings betweenthe Be aware ofcrews usingthe or todeliberatelycutthecorner by thesetofEBBtide– Middlesex sideoftheFairway pushed overtotheport/ Take extracare nottobe bank butoutsidethered buoys the FairwayclosertoSurrey stay onthestarboard sideof downriver withtheEBBtide When rowing outbound/ always insidethered buoys the Surrey bankasissafeand the Inshore Zone, ascloseto against theEBBtide,stayin When rowing inbound/upriver UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS Mortlake Reach – Navigating with the ebb tide

When rowing with the ebb tide, not staying to the starboard side of the Fairway is the biggest navigational issue in this section . The diagrams illustrate this problem: 1 • Inshore Zone – for rowing up river against the tide • Starboard side of the Fairway – the correct navigation line 1• Set of the tide – this port side line is incorrect caused by tidal set plus a lack of active correction by the steers

2• Cutting the (blind) corner at Chiswick Bridge is obviously not a good idea Looking upriver at Mortlake Reach from the Surrey bank

Looking upriver at Mortlake Reach from Chiswick Bridge Looking downriver at Chiswick Bridge from Putney Town steps

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UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS to

• • • Mortlake Reach–Navigatingonthefloodtide on theMiddlesexbank Inshore Zoneandtheclubs two localcrossings betweenthe Be aware ofcrews usingthe always insidethered buoys the Surrey bankasissafeand in theInshore Zone, ascloseto against theFLOODtidestayon Rowing outbound/downriver Middlesex bank of theFairwaycloserto stay ontheStarboard side with theFLOODtide, Rowing inbound/upriver

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UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS go contents Looking downriver from BarnesLooking downriver from Bridge at the Surrey & offset Fairway shallows

shallows at low Extensive side tide on the Surrey to causing the Fairway be well over to Middlesex below Barnes Bridge (see inset photograph) The Chiswick Bridge and Chiswick Steps Zones Crossing buoys navigation Four green boathouses Three Barnes Bridge Zone) (Restricted

on the Middlesex (north) bank . Inshore Zone is the Inshore river where • • • This is the only section of the • • hazards including: hazards and has many and has Rowing Area This section of river is in the river is section of This Corney Barnes including – Reach Bridge contents go

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UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS to

• • • Reach–Navigating ontheebbtide Corney ebb tide of theFairwayon port/Middlesex side onthe ‘cut thecorner’ Take extracare notto bank butoutsidethered buoys the FairwayclosertoSurrey stay ontheStarboard sideof downriver withtheEBBtide When rowing outbound/ always insidethegreen buoys Middlesex bankasissafeand Inshore Zone, asclosetothe against theEBBtide,stayin When rowing inbound/upriver

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UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS go contents Looking upriver at Barnes Bridge from Barnes Terrace Looking upriver at Barnes Bridge from Barnes Terrace corner! cut the – This is why you don’t Looking downriver at Barnes Bend from Chiswick Bridge

side line is incorrect and is caused by This port side line is incorrect corner’steers ‘cutting the . It can cause problems at Barnesfor other vessels especially Bridge – the correct Fairway – the correct side of the Starboard water navigation line . It is also the fastest for rowing upriver against the tide against the upriver – for rowing Zone Inshore

•

• • Looking downriver at Barnes Bridge from the Fairway

illustrate this problem: this problem: illustrate The diagrams . The diagrams issue in this section navigational is the biggest is the biggest side of theFairway the starboard tide, not staying to not staying tide, the ebb with rowing When Corney tide ebb the with Navigating – Reach Corney Reach – Navigating on the flood tide

• Rowing inbound/upriver with the FLOOD tide, stay on the starboard side of the Fairway, closer to the Middlesex bank but outside the green buoys • Rowing outbound/downriver against the FLOOD tide stay on in the Inshore Zone, as close to the Middlesex bank as is safe and always inside the green buoys

UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS • Take extra care not to be pushed over to the port/ Surrey side of the Fairway by the set of the FLOOD tide

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UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS go contents

A very irregular and A very irregular at shallow foreshore low tide in the Surrey Zone Inshore The Chiswick Steps Zone Crossing local crossings Three buoys navigation Four red Multiple piers, moorings and pontoons Dove Pier tidal set A strong Chiswick Eyot Seven boathouses Hammersmith Bridge Hammersmith Zone) (Restricted

• • • • • • • • • • hazards including: hazards and has many and has Rowing Area This section of river is in the river is section of This Chiswick Reach – including Hammersmith Bridge Hammersmith including – Reach Chiswick Chiswick Reach – Navigating on the ebb tide

• When rowing inbound/upriver against the EBB tide, stay in the Inshore Zone, as close to the Surrey bank as is safe and always inside of the red buoys • When rowing outbound/ downriver with the EBB tide stay on the starboard side of the Fairway closer to the Surrey bank but outside the red buoys

• Avoid straying onto the port/ Middlesex side of the Fairway

UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS along Chiswick Eyot and round the bend on the ebb tide . This Head ‘racing line’ should not be taken unless the river is closed for a race!

• Be aware of crews using the local crossings between the Inshore Zone and the clubs on the Middlesex bank at Hammersmith

go back to contents 75 UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS Chiswick Reach – Navigating with the ebb tide

When rowing with the ebb tide, not staying to the • Starboard side of the Fairway – the correct starboard side of the Fairway and the very shallow navigation line outbound with the ebb foreshore in the Inshore Zone are the biggest navigational issues in this section . The diagram • This port side line is incorrect and puts crews below illustrates these problems: on the inbound side of the Fairway . There is no significant tidal set here and this crew has chosen • Inshore Zone – for rowing up river against the tide to take the Head ‘racing line’ in the faster stream rather than stay correctly on the starboard side • The shallows are already showing and inbound of the Fairway – under the instruction of a coach! crews do tend to row well off the bank around the corner but this crew were too far off the bank!

Looking downriver towards Hammersmith from Chiswick Pier

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UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS to

at lowwater Hammersmith Bridgecan‘dryout’ tide .However, theSurrey (#3)arch of Bridge whenrowing againsttheebb the Surrey (#3)arch ofHammersmith If there is sufficientwater, alwaysuse Hammersmith Bridge–Navigatingagainsttheebbtide . • • • • against thetide when takingthe mainspan between them andthebuttress fixed underthe bridge.Stay There are small bridge buttress Move immediatelybackintotheInshore Zoneoncebeyondthe staying betweentheyellowmarkersandbuttress . If itisclear, moveintotheFairwayandrow quicklythrough, Fairway haverightofway If theFairwayisnotclearyoumustwait.Crews outboundinthe Stop wellbefore thebridgeandcheckFairwayisclear carefully navigatethrough themain(#2)spanasfollows: If theSurrey (#3)arch ofHammersmithBridgeisdry, crews may yellow discs

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UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS go contents (#3) (#3) Usual Inshore Zone line Usual Inshore the Surrey through is dry Arch Stay between the Stay between the the and buttress yellow marker (#2) Alternative line the if only but - clear is Fairway contents go

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UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS to

• • • • Chiswick Reach–Navigatingonthefloodtide Hammersmith on theMiddlesexbankat the Inshore Zoneandtheclubs three localcrossings between Be aware ofcrews usingthe by thesetofFLOODtide Surrey sideoftheFairway pushed overtotheport/ Take extracare nottobe always insidethered buoys the Surrey bankasissafeand the Inshore Zone, ascloseto against theFLOODtidestayin Rowing outbound/downriver Middlesex bank the Fairwaycloserto on thestarboard sideof with theFLOODtide,stay Rowing inbound/upriver

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UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS go contents Dove Pier Buoy Looking upriver from Hammersmith Bridge Looking upriver from Hammersmith

The FLOOD tide is very fast so situations can develop very quickly unless you navigate correctly If you find yourself between this buoy and the bank stop your course and correct immediately A green buoy (Dove Pier Buoy) A green on the has been positioned downriver edge of the Fairway guide to help of Dove Pier as a stay to steers, who should port/Fairway side of this buoy set of the FLOOD tide But the set of the FLOOD Dove will push boats towards a Pier potentially causing collision with some very large pier on the barges Inbound crews should be to the should be to crews Inbound Fairway side of the starboard

• •

• • • incidents in the past few years: incidents several very serious rowing serious rowing several very It has seen Dove Pier . It has seen Bridge is Just upriver of Hammersmith Hammersmith upriver of Just tide flood the with Navigating – Bridge Hammersmith Hammersmith Bridge – Navigating with the flood tide

To avoid problems at Hammersmith Bridge and Dove Pier when rowing inbound with the flood tide you need to get set up well below the bridge:

1• Inbound crews should be to starboard of the Fairway 1 2• Do not cut the corner below the bridge 3• Aim to pass under the word “Bridge” 2 Once under Hammersmith Bridge

4• Stay on the starboard side of the Fairway but pass to the port/Fairway side of the Dove Pier Buoy Looking downriver from Hammersmith Bridge 5• However, do not cut the corner above the bridge UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS

Looking upriver at Hammersmith Bridge Looking upriver from Hammersmith Bridge

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UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS go contents

The end of the Rowing Area including special rules for turning at Putney Ten boathouses containing Ten multiple clubs Multiple piers, moorings and Multiple piers, moorings boats pontoons including edge on the Surrey moored of the Fairway Three red navigation buoys navigation red Three Putney Crossing Zone The Putney Crossing The Fairway over to Surrey Bridge side below Hammersmith Extensive shallows on the Extensive side at low tide Middlesex (Fulham flats)

• •

• hazards including: hazards and has many and has Rowing Area This section of river is in the river is section of This Barn Bridge Putney – including Reach Elms contents go

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UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS to

• • • ElmsReach–Navigating ontheebbtide Barn to avoidFulhamflats issues forClassVswhichhave tide .Thiscancauseserious side oftheFairwayonebb ontheport/Middlesex corners’ Take extracare notto‘cutthe bank butoutsidethered buoys the FairwayclosertoSurrey stay onthestarboard sideof downriver withtheEBBtide When rowing outbound/ always insidethered buoys the Surrey bankasissafeand the Inshore Zone, ascloseto against theEBBtide,stayin When rowing inbound/upriver

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UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS go contents Looking upriver at Barn on Surrey Elms Reach from the Mile post Looking across at Craven Cottage from the SurreyLooking across at Craven Bank

side line is incorrect and is caused This port side line is incorrect by steers ‘cutting the corner’ . It also runs on Fulham Flats at the risk of grounding lower tides – the correct Fairway – the correct side of the Starboard water navigation line . It is also the fastest – for rowing up river against the tide up river against – for rowing Zone Inshore

•

• •

illustrate this problem: this problem: illustrate The diagrams . The diagrams issue in this section navigational is the biggest is the biggest side of theFairway the starboard tide, not staying to not staying tide, the ebb with rowing When Barn tide the ebb with – Navigating Reach Elms Looking across at Fulham Reach from Harrods on the SurreyLooking across at Fulham Bank contents go

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UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS to

• • • ElmsReach–Navigating onthefloodtide Barn the Tea RoseBuoy – overFulhamflatsupuntil to thestarboard/Middlesex side navigate outsideoftheFairway boats are encouragedto If thewaterishigh,rowing always insidethered buoys the Surrey bankasissafeand in theInshore Zone, ascloseto against theFLOODtidestayon Rowing outbound/downriver the Middlesexbank of theFairwaycloserto stay onthestarboard side with theFLOODtide, Rowing inbound/upriver Tea RoseBuoy

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UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS go contents

It is where the navigation pattern changes from the the pattern the navigation from changes It is where . to Col Regs Area Upper Rowing

. bank the Surrey from Park steps at Bishop’s looking across across , looking Zone Crossing is the Putney This Putney Crossing Putney contents go

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UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS to

2 • • three options: the Surrey Inshore Zonethere are To andgobackinboundup turn line ofmoored boats side oftheFairway, closetothe crossing zoneonthestarboard On theEbbtide,approach the Putney requires abitofexplaining: Turning safelyandcorrectly at Putney Bridge&crossing –Turning ontheebbtide 1 water underPutney Pier only workifthere issufficient This isthesafestoptionbut will Putney Pier the Surrey (#5)arch andunder andreturnthroughBridge, turn Continue through Putney moored boat youreach before thelast turn wrong soyoumuststartyour swept ontothepierifyougetit This doesruntheriskofgetting that boatandPutneyPier boat andintothegapbetween Turn around thelastmoored 1 2

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UPPER AREA DIRECTIONS go contents 3

You must always give way to You boats in the Fairway whenever the river you cross Continue through Putney Bridge, Putney Continue through turn bank onto the Middlesex #2 arch, the through and return over the river back to then cross Zone using the Crossing Surrey If there is not sufficient water is not sufficient If there under no Pier, under Putney should you circumstances Putney bridge, through continue return Surrey, turn towards go #4 and then arch through outside Putney Pier is extremely This manoeuvre caused and has dangerous several serious collisions

. dangerous extremely This manoeuvre is embankment . This manoeuvre the moored boats opposite the the moored should never go straight through should never go straight through Rowing and coaching boats IMPORTANT NOTE: IMPORTANT • • use Option 1 or – use Option 1 or – If the water is low you should either If the water is low • on the ebb tide the on – Turning & crossing Bridge Putney 3 contents go

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CENTRAL LONDON to

boatingonthethames .couk on theirdedicatedleisure userswebsite “Rowing through centralLondon”available This isbestcovered inthePLAvideo traffic totakeintoaccount. navigation directions andalotofcommercial to starboard asthere are numerous local However, it’s notquiteassimplestaying navigation rulesapply / Area therefore ColRegs and CherryGarden PierisnotaRowingCode The sectionofriverbetweenPutneyCrossing Rowing incentralLondon PUTNEY BRIDGE Crossing Putney Wandsworth reach & BellLaneCreek RAIL BRIDGE FULHAM River Wandle RAIL BRIDGE BATTERSEA TRANSFER STATION SOLID WASTE SMUGGLERS WAY . BRIDGE WANDSWORTH starboard side reach Battersea ALBERT BRIDGE ROAD BRIDGE BATTERSEA CHELSEA T far asChelsea Bridgewithouthavingto contactLondonVTS. However, hasbeenagreed thatrowing crews mayproceed as should informLondonVTS iftheygobelowPutneyCrossing. Strictly speaking,crews from theUpperRowingCodeArea BRIDGE reach Chelsea his isaconcession, don’tabuseit! WESTMINSTER PALACE RAIL BRIDGE VICTORIA POWER STATION BATTERSEA CHARRING CROSS WESTMINSTER RAIL BRIDGE Nine Elms BRIDGE LAMBETH reach BRIDGE WATERLOO BRIDGE BRIDGE VAUXHALL reach Lambeth BLACK FRIARS LONDON EYE reach Kings BRIDGE MILLENNIUM BRIDGE& ST. PAUL’S CATHEDRAL SOUTHWARK

W RAIL BRIDGE BLACK FRIARS BRIDGE BRIDGE LONDON

S BRIDGE RAIL STREET CANNON BRIDGE TOWER Upper pool TOWER OF LONDON

E Dock St. Katharine GARDEN CHERRY PIER Shadwell Basin Entrance Crossing Surrey Surrey

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CENTRAL LONDON go contents below Chelsea Bridge below Chelsea Pier Garden above Cherry 020 8855 0315 Telephone 14 Use VHF Channel inform London London inform must Rowers Services) Traffic VTS (Vessel proceeding: before • • contact London VTS To • •

If returning downriver, rowers may stay on the south bank and turn may stay on the south rowers downriver, If returning Pier Cherry Garden before If going above Cherry Garden Pier rowers should cross at Surrey at Surrey should cross Pier rowers If going above Cherry Garden and use the north bank Entrance Crossing inform London VTS (see panel right) before going before must inform London VTS (see panel right) Crews Pier above Cherry Garden Crews should not proceed below Wandsworth Bridge, regardless of Bridge, regardless below Wandsworth should not proceed Crews by the Club Rowing pre-approved tide, unless the outing plan has been Safety Advisor Due to commercial barge traffic movements at various freight facilities, facilities, freight traffic movements at various barge Due to commercial for three below Fulham Railway bridge not proceed must rowers and two hours after high tide hours before inform London VTS (see panel right) before going (see panel right) before must inform London VTS Crews below Chelsea Bridge 20 bridges and countless piers, moorings and wharves moorings and and countless piers, 20 bridges poor water conditions Often very traffic busy commercial volumes of Large vessels much larger other, Poor visibility to those

• • • For Lower Area-based clubs: For Lower Area-based

• • • For Upper Area-based clubs: For Upper Area-based .00am . 10 weekends before restricted to the to the restricted that excursions are recommended is very strongly However, if you do want to row into or through central London then it or through into if you do want to row However, • • • • recommended due to numerous hazards for small boats: hazards due to numerous recommended Rowing through central London, especially in fine boats, is not boats, is in fine especially central London, through Rowing Rowing in central London in central Rowing contents go

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LOWER AREA DIRECTIONS to

slacks againstthetide. according totheRowingCode,i.eworking Barrier Cherry Garden Pierand500mabovetheThames The LowerTidewayRowingCodeArea isbetween The LowerTidewayRowingCodeofPracticeArea .Withinthisarea rowers mustnavigate flood tidedescriptions. section, theebbtideisdescribedfirst,followedby moving downriverfrom CherryGarden Pier Rowing Area .Theyare describedinshortsections, directions describespecificdetailswithintheLower refer toBasic/FurtherPrinciplesofNavigation.These For generalnavigationrulesintherowing areas please .Ineach

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LOWER AREA DIRECTIONS go contents

A strong tidal set on the A strong flood The entrance to the The entrance to the Limehouse Marina and Shadwell Basin The Surrey Entrance and Entrance The Surrey Chalkstones Crossing Zones Multiple piers, moorings Multiple piers, moorings and wharves Extensive shallows on the Extensive shallows tide around south side at low Pier Nelson Dock (Hilton) Busy commercial traffic Busy commercial particularly at movements and Cherry Canary Wharf Piers Garden

•

• •

• hazards including: hazards and has many and has Rowing Area This section of river is in the river is section of This Lower Pool & Cuckhold’s Point Cuckhold’s & Pool Lower contents go

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LOWER AREA DIRECTIONS to

Surrey Entrance CrossingZone,lookingupriverfromThis istheSurrey ShadwellBasinonthenorthbank. Lower Pool&Cuckhold’s Point–Surrey EntranceCrossing

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LOWER AREA DIRECTIONS go contents Be aware of other crews rowing rowing of other crews Be aware inbound against the ebb in the Zone on the south bank Inshore (inside the ventilation shaft) • starboard edge Stay on the starboard (south side) of the Fairway and outside the Rotherhithe Tunnel ventilation shaft For crews intending to proceed upriver through Tower Bridge against the ebb against the Bridge For crews Tower through upriver to proceed intending Bridge with the ebb downriver from Tower or coming inform must Cherry to proceed above VTS if you intend London NOTE: You beforedo so at weekends and should only Garden Pier 90 10.00am. See page •

Navigate outside Cherry Garden Navigate outside Cherry Garden moorings Pier and barge Crews who use this Col Regs Crews navigation should not then turn Pier at Cherry Garden If crews intend to proceed intend to proceed If crews Bridge, Tower upriver through the Surrey at they should cross and follow Entrance Crossing along side Col Regs / starboard outside the north bank, staying possible the Fairway where Navigate under Hilton Pier if under Hilton Pier Navigate to do so . is sufficient water there If not, then go outside the pier Fairway but stay out of the if possible Inshore Zone, Inshore Stay in the to the south bank as close as is safe

• Cherry Garden Pier: Cherry Garden tide – from above with the EBB tide – from When rowing outbound/downriver When rowing

• •

• • against the EBB tide: against the When rowing inbound/upriver inbound/upriver rowing When – Navigating on the tide on the ebb – Navigating Point & Cuckhold’s Pool Lower contents go

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LOWER AREA DIRECTIONS to

• with theEBBtide: When rowing outbound/downriver • • • • against theEBBtide: When rowing inbound/upriver Lower Pool&Cuckhold’s Point–Navigatingontheebbtide ventilation shaft outside theRotherhithe Tunnel (south side)of theFairwayand Stay onthestarboard edge described below– moorings andreturn as downriver endofthebarge Turn to doso.Ifnot,thengooutside shaft, ifthere issufficientwater Rotherhithe Tunnel ventilation bank, navigating‘inside’the in theInshore Zoneonthesouth downriver If crews intendtoreturn out oftheFairwayifpossible then gooutsidethepierbutstay is sufficientwatertodoso.Ifnot Navigate underHiltonPierifthere as issafe as closetothesouthbank Stay intheInshore Zone, anywhere before the , theyshouldremain • downrivertotheirclubswiththeebb intendingtoreturn For crews (inside the ventilation shaft) Inshore Zoneonthesouth bank inbound against theebbin Be aware ofothercrews rowing

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LOWER AREA DIRECTIONS go contents Navigate ‘inside’ the Rotherhithe ventilation shaft and under Tunnel is sufficient water if there Hilton Pier, to do so . If not, then go outside these obstacles but stay out of the Fairway if possible • Inshore Zone, Stay in the Inshore as close to the south bank as is safe Rowing outbound/downriver against the FLOOD tide: • For crews return to intending the flood against to their clubs downriver . . Rowers should

anywhere before the before anywhere

downriver end of the barge downriver end of the barge Zone moorings into the Inshore as on the south bank and return described right – Turn Surrey Entrance at the Surrey Cross and continue upriver Crossing on the port side of the Fairway Be aware of vessels using of vessels Be aware entrance Limehouse Marina either side (not used 2 hours of low water) Be aware of the tidal set which the tidal set which of Be aware Canary will push boats towards north side Wharf Pier on the of the Fairway Pier navigate outside this starboard side starboard Stay on the the closer to of the Fairway north bank

• • against the flood tide: intending to return downriver intending to return upriver with the FLOOD tide but Any crew rowing inbound/ rowing Any crew •

• • tide: with the FLOOD Rowing inbound/upriver inbound/upriver Rowing tide on the flood – Navigating Point & Cuckhold’s Pool Lower contents go

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LOWER AREA DIRECTIONS to

• • Pier withtheFLOODtide: upriver beyondCherryGarden Any crew rowing inbound/ • • • with theFLOODtide: Rowing inbound/upriver Lower Pool&Cuckhold’s Point–Navigatingonthefloodtide turn atCherryGardenturn Pier navigation should notthen Crews whousethisColRegs starboard sideofthe Fairway according toColRegs/ the northbankandnavigate Do notcross butremain on of lowwater) (not used2hourseitherside Limehouse Marinaentrance Be aware ofvesselsusing navigate outsidethisPier of theFairway Wharf Pieronthenorthside will pushboatstowards Canary Be aware ofthetidalsetwhich north bank of theFairwaycloserto Stay onthestarboard side .Rowersshould . Garden Pier and should only do so at weekends before 10.00am.Seepage90. Garden Pierandshouldonlydosoatweekendsbefore NOTE: You LondonVTSifyouintendtoproceedaboveCherry mustinform coming downriverfromTower Bridgeagainsttheflood intendingtoproceedupriverthroughTowerFor crews Bridgeonthefloodor • from aboveCherry Garden Pier: against theFLOODtide– Rowing outbound/downriver to thesouth bankas issafe the Inshore Zone,asclose barge mooringsandstayin Navigate inside thepierand • out ofthe Fairwayifpossible outside these obstaclesbutstay water todoso .Ifnot,thengo Hilton Pier, ifthere issufficient Tunnel ventilationshaftandunder Navigate ‘inside’theRotherhithe Isle of Dogs – Limehouse Reach navigation LOWER AREA DIRECTIONS

• Beware of the Set of the flood tide • Inshore Zone against either tide under Hilton Pier at Canary Wharf Pier • Alternative line if it’s dry under Hilton Pier • Go outside Canary Wharf Pier when • Go outside Hilton Pier when navigating navigating with the flood tide with the ebb tide

Looking downriver at Limehouse reach from Limehouse Link on the north bank

go back to contents 98 contents go

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LOWER AREA DIRECTIONS to

• • • • • • • • hazards including: Rowing Area andhasmany This sectionofriverisinthe Isle ofDogs–LimehouseandGreenwich Reaches Four Rowingclubs the ebb A strong tidalset on Two Localcrossings Follyhouse Crossing Zones The Chalkstonesand Restricted Zone Greenwich ShipTier dry docksatBayWharf and wharvesincludingthe Multiple piers,moorings at lowtide Shallows onthenorthside Piers Terrace andGreenwich at Greenland, Masthouse movements particularly Busy commercial traffic

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LOWER AREA DIRECTIONS 100 go contents

, looking upriver from Ocean Wharf on the north bank . Wharf on the north Ocean upriver from Zone, looking Chalkstones Crossing This is the – Chalkstones Crossing – Chalkstones Reach to Limehouse Point Cuckhold’s Isle of Dogs – Navigating on the ebb tide

When rowing inbound/upriver against the EBB tide: • Stay in the Inshore Zone, as close to the north bank as is safe • Navigate under Masthouse Terrace Pier if there is sufficient water to do so . If not then go outside the pier but stay outside the Fairway • Navigate inside London Yard and Chalkstones moorings

When rowing outbound/downriver LOWER AREA DIRECTIONS with the EBB tide: • Stay on the Starboard edge (south side) of the Fairway • Be aware of the tidal set which will push boats towards Greenwich Ship Tier on the south side of the Fairway – ensure that you get set-up early so as to avoid the Restricted Zone around Greenwich Ship Tier go back to • Vessel movement at Bay Wharf contents dry dock over high water periods 101

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LOWER AREA DIRECTIONS 102 go contents Use the Fairway to go outside the Greenwich Ship Tier Ship Tier the Greenwich outside to go the Fairway Use tide with the ebb Zone when navigating Restricted you onto ebb tide pushing Set of the of the Beware Ship Tier Greenwich • •

with the flood tide navigating with the flood Line when against either tide either Zone against Inshore

Looking downriver at Greenwich Ship Tier from the north bank at GreenwichLooking downriver Ship Tier • • – Greenwich Ship Tier Navigation Tier Ship – Greenwich of Dogs Isle contents go 103

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LOWER AREA DIRECTIONS to

• • with theFLOODtide: Rowing inbound/upriver • • • • • against theFLOODtide: Rowing outbound/downriver Isle ofDogs-Navigatingonthefloodtide Inshore Zoneonthe northbank outbound against thefloodin Be aware ofothercrews rowing Fairway closertothe northbank Stay onthestarboard sideofthe and Chalkstonesmoorings Navigate insideLondonyard with theflood to anyrowing crews inbound Terrace pier, youmust giveway If goingoutsideMasthouse the Fairway outside thepierbutstay water todoso.Ifnotthengo Terrace Pierifthere issufficient Navigate underMasthouse the northedgeofFairway inbound onthefloodwillbe Be aware thatcrews rowing as issafe as closetothenorthbank Stay intheInshore Zone,

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LOWER AREA DIRECTIONS 104 go contents

Shallows on the south side Shallows on the south at low tide Multiple piers, moorings and wharves Bow The entrances to and East India Creek, India docks West The Follyhouse and Zones Blackwall Crossing tidal set on the A strong flood Busy commercial traffic, Busy commercial Trinity around particularly Dock Victoria Jubilee Pier, and Entrance, Thames Northumberland Wharves

• • • • • • hazards including: hazards and has many and has Rowing Area This section of river is in the river is section of This Blackwall Point (O2 Arena) (O2 Point Blackwall contents go 105

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LOWER AREA DIRECTIONS to

This istheFollyhouseCrossingZone,lookingupriverfrom PointWharfDrawDockonthesouthbank. Blackwall ReachtoPoint–FollyhouseCrossing

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LOWER AREA DIRECTIONS 106 go contents

Be aware of other crews rowing rowing of other crews Be aware inbound against the ebb in the Zone on the south bank Inshore edge Stay on the starboard Fairway (south side) of the Be aware that crews rowing rowing that crews Be aware will be on outbound on the ebb the Fairway the south edge of Be aware of the shallows of Be aware point Blackwall around Inshore Zone, Inshore Stay in the to the south bank as close as is safe

• • with the EBB tide: When rowing outbound/downriver outbound/downriver When rowing •

• • against the EBB tide: against the When rowing inbound/upriver inbound/upriver rowing When tide ebb on the – Navigating Point Blackwall contents go 107

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LOWER AREA DIRECTIONS to

• • against theFLOODtide: When rowing outbound/downriver • with theFLOODtide: When rowing inbound/upriver Blackwall Point–Navigatingonthefloodtide • around Blackwallpoint Be aware oftheshallows as issafe as closetothesouthbank between thecrossing points Stay intheInshore Zone, (north side)oftheFairway Stay onthestarboard edge Jubliee Pier(Clipperbase) will pushboatstowards Trinity Be aware ofthetidalsetwhich

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LOWER AREA DIRECTIONS 108 go contents

Shallows on the north side on the north side Shallows at low tide Multiple piers, moorings and wharves The Blackwall Crossing Zone One local crossing club One rowing The Thames Barrier Busy commercial traffic Busy commercial

• • • • • • • hazards including: hazards and has many and has Rowing Area This section of river is in the river is section of This Bugsby’s Reach & the Thames Barrier Thames & the Reach Bugsby’s contents go 109

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LOWER AREA DIRECTIONS to

Blackwall PointtoBugsby’s Reach–BlackwallCrossing This istheBlackwallCrossingZone,lookingdownriverfrom theO2Arena onthesouthbank.

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LOWER AREA DIRECTIONS 110 go contents

Turn after Island Jetty but at Turn the Thames least 500m before Zone Barrier into the Inshore as on the north bank and return described above at the Blackwall Crossing Cross on the and continue downriver port side of the Fairway Navigate outside the moorings Navigate outside point below the crossing Navigate inside Island Jetty if inside Island Jetty Navigate to do so . is sufficient water there If not then go outside the pier Fairway but stay outside the Inshore Zone, Inshore Stay in the to the north bank as close as is safe

• • with the EBB tide: When rowing outbound/downriver outbound/downriver When rowing •

• • against the EBB tide: against the When rowing inbound/upriver inbound/upriver rowing When – Navigating on the ebb tide on the – Navigating Reach Bugsby’s contents go 111

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LOWER AREA DIRECTIONS to

with theFLOOD tide: When rowing inbound/upriver • • • • upriver againstthefloodtide: tide butintendingtoreturn downriver againsttheFLOOD Any crew rowing outbound/ Bugsby’s Reach–Navigatingonthefloodtide • described below of theFairwayandreturn as Barrier ontothestarboard side least 500mbefore theThames Turn afterIslandJettybutat crews inboundwiththeflood must givewaytoanyrowing If goingoutsideIslandJetty, you but stayoutsidetheFairway If notthengooutsidethepier there issufficientwatertodoso. Navigate insideIslandJettyif the northbankasissafe Inshore Zone, ascloseto moorings thenstayinthe Zone, navigateoutsidethe Cross attheBlackwallCrossing (north side) oftheFairway Stay onthestarboard edge For crews intending to return uprivertotheirclubs intendingtoreturn For crews • Inshore Zoneonthe northbank outbound against thefloodin be aware ofothercrews rowing Navigate outsideIslandJetty and

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LOWER AREA DIRECTIONS 112 go contents See page 90 NOTE: You must inform through London VTS if you intend to proceed NOTE: You Please do so before Blackwell Crossing. the Thames Barrier. For crews Barrier The Thames through downriver proceed to intending

Navigate outside Island Jetty of other crews and be aware outbound against the rowing Zone on flood in the Inshore the north bank starboard edge Stay on the starboard (north side) of the Fairway Crews who use this Col Regs who use Crews not then navigation should turn . in front at Island Jetty i .e of the Thames Barrier Blackwall at the Blackwall Do not cross on Zone but remain Crossing of the side the starboard Fairway and navigate to Col Regs according

• • the Barrier: tide – from below with the FLOOD tide – from When rowing inbound/upriver inbound/upriver When rowing •

• tide: FLOOD Barrier against the downriver beyond the Thames beyond the Thames downriver outbound/ rowing crew Any tide flood on the – Navigating Reach Bugsby’s contents go 113

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APPENDIX A – LIFE JACKETS to

canvas . trapping them underthebow with thecoxstill intheboatand boats .Theyruntheriskofinflating not beusedinbow-loaded coxed Self-inflating lifejackets must IMPORTANT NOTE: • • • Recommended Specification preferred toabuoyancyaid. A fullyinflatinglifejacketis Devices are available. friendly PersonalFloatation also wearalifejacket.Rowing- If youcannotswimthenmust footwear thantheathletes. wearing more/heavier clothingand This isbecausetheyare generally times whileafloat. maintained lifejacketatall a correctly fittedandwell launch driversMUSTwear Coxes, coaches,umpires and Life Jackets includes acrotch strap self-inflating minimum 150Ncapacity • • • Storage not goafloatwithit. aspect ofyourlifejacketdo If youare unsure aboutany • • • Fitting to air-dry naturally Wet jacketsshouldbeallowed compacted in abagorbox on racksorhooksandnever left They shouldbestored hungup or sunlight. use butawayfrom direct heat warm, dryplacewhennot in Jackets shouldbestored ina available touse toggle isshowingandreadily Ensure thatthemanualinflation iffitted strap orharness, adjusted anduseanycrotch that yourjacketisproperly emergency sopleaseensure life jacketsmaycomeoff inan but nottightfit.Loose-fitting The jacketshouldbeasnug top ofallotherclothing on The Jacketmustbeworn RYA website. maintenance is availableonthe jacket choice, fitting,storageand life regarding Further information retailer the manufacturer orapproved aspect ofalifejacket,contact If youare unsure aboutany Maintenance • • • • be keptofservicing A maintenancelogshould by themanufacturer Any repairs mustbeperformed years maximum intervalofthree retailer isundertakenata servicing byanapproved recommended thatregular depend onusagebutitis Servicing andreplacement for leaks at leastonceayeartocheck time theyare usedandinflated obvious signsofdamageevery Jackets shouldbecheckedfor . APPENDIX B – CONTACTS The Port of London Authority (PLA) London River House, Royal Pier Road, Gravesend, Kent DA12 2BG Head Office: 020 7743 7909 Richmond Lock: 020 8940 0634 www.boatingonthethames.co.uk www.pla.co.uk

London Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) Telephone 020 8855 0315 VHF Channel 14

The Thames Regional Rowing Council (TRRC) www.thames-rrc.org

Don’t run out of luck British Rowing www.britishrowing.org They‘re called Life jackets for a reason: always consider wearing one when afloat. Life jackets are recommended when fully clothed and bouyancy aids for participating in water sports. Both types The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) should be properly fitted, well maintained and tested periodically. www.rya.org.uk

Thames Water go back to http://www.thameswater.co.uk contents 114 contents go 115

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APPENDIX C – CLUB COLOURS & CODES to

DAC CYG CUR CRB COL CHK CDH BBL BAE ASL AWL AKN Dacre BC Cygnet RC Curlew RC Crabtree BC Colet BC BC Chiswick School Cold HarbourBC Ladies RC Bridge Barnes ElmsRC Barn in LondonBC American School ARC Alpha Women’s RC Auriol Kensington HSB HCR GRV GLT GLB FUL FSC EYR ERT EMA ELZ DUL Rowing Club HSBC Community RC Hounslow Gravesend RC Latymer SchoolBC Godolphin & Globe RC Fulham ReachBC Club Sculling Furnivall Eyre Club Erith BC Emanuel School Elizabethan BC BC Dulwich College ORI MAA LTU LSE LRC LOT LOS KCS KCL IMP IMM

Orion RC & AlphaBC Anglian Mortlake School BC Latymer Upper Economics London Schoolof London RC London OttersRC School BC London Oratory School Wimbledon King’s College London BC King’s College BC Imperial College School ofMedicine Imperial College

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APPENDIX C – CLUB COLOURS & CODES 116 go contents University of BC Westminster Thames Thames RC Tradesmens’ RC Twickenham Club Tyrian University College London BC University of East London BC University of London BC United Hospitals BC RC Vesta Westminster School BC TTR TWK TYR UCL UEL ULO UNH VRC WES WMN St George’s St George’s School BC Medical Sport BC Imperial Sons of the Thames RC Girl’s St Paul’s School BC School BC St Paul’s Keane Team Sculling School The 1927 BC Club Tortoise Thames RC The 1829 BC Tideway Scullers Tideway School St Bart’s & Royal & Royal St Bart’s BC Hospital’s London SBA SGH SIP SON SPG SPS TKC TNT TOR TRC TSS TTN Poplar Blackwall Poplar Blackwall RC & District Putney High School RC RC Putney Town Quintin BC Queen Mary UL BC Royal Docks RC Royal Holloway (UL) BC Royal Navy RC Roehampton University RC Royal University Royal Veterinary Royal Veterinary College BC Medical Students BC Parrs PrioryParrs RC PAR PBD PHS PTR QBC QMC RDO RHO RNY ROE RUM RVC We hope that you have found this guide useful and informative. If you have any further questions regarding the Rowing Code or have any queries or suggestions regarding anything in this document, please contact go back to the PLA or TRRC. Additional copies are available from the PLA or you can download a pdf version from contents their website. See page 114 for contact details and web addresses.