Shannon Estuary
Advice to Leisure Users
- Communications is the key to safety
- Port VHF Channel is Ch. 11 - it is strongly recommended you keep a
listening watch on Ch. 11
- When you encounter Commercial traffic either ahead or astern of you -
contact vessel on Ch. 11 to indicate your intentions.
- Buoys in the Estuary are there to mark the Channel for Commercial
shipping which cannot move outside its limits
- Leisure craft are obliged to give way to Commercial Shipping
- Most shipping movements between Airport and Limerick take place from 2
hours before Highwater up to Highwater
- Elsewhere in Estuary movements can occur at anytime
Remember: -
- Currents can be very strong in the Estuary
- Wind can adversely effect Sea State.
- INBOUND - Keep all Green Buoys and Marks to Starboard
- OUTBOUND - Keep all Red Buoys and Marks to Starboard
- Commercial vessels due to the nature of the Channel will not necessarily
proceed from Buoy to Buoy.
- Commercial vessels may be proceeding faster than you realise
Safety: -
- Ensure your craft is suitable and properly equipped for a passage on the
Estuary - in particular VHF and Radar Reflector
- You are advised to avail of the RNLI "sea-check" before transiting the
Estuary.
- Do not take alcohol before or during a transit of the Estuary.
- Understanding Sound Signals: -
In certain situations a Commercial Vessel may use sound signals which are
explained as follows
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1 Short blast |
Altering to Starboard |
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2 Short blasts |
Altering to Portside
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3 Short blasts
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Going Astern
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5 or more Short blasts
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Keep Clear
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This practical advice is offered to ensure your safety and enjoyment on the
Estuary.
In an emergency call "Shannon Coastguard" on Ch. 16
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