A busy weekend preventing ‘Oh Ship!’ moments for Harbourmaster patrols
Skippers of a launch, a yacht, two dinghies, and a kayak had to be reminded of the rules associated with keeping clear of large ships in the Tauranga Harbour this weekend.
Under the Navigation Safety Bylaw, anyone in command of a vessel must ensure they do not get in the way of large ships of 500 gross tonnes or more such as a large container or cruise ship. This is particularly the case for anyone anchored in the shipping lanes when a commercial ship is leaving or entering the port.
Bay of Plenty Harbourmaster Jon Jon Peters says that despite being New Zealand’s busiest cargo port, there is enough space for everyone – as long as everyone follows the rules.
“It’s about keeping everyone safe. Large container vessels can be over 280m long so have very little ability to alter course or stop quickly, particularly within the confines of a harbour.
“It doesn’t matter how impressive a potential catch might be, it’s not worth the safety of yourself and others by failing to be aware of your surroundings or not moving well in advance of any ships approaching.”
This weekend’s incidents included vessels anchoring or not giving large ships enough space in the shipping channels near Mauao/ Mount Maunganui and getting too close to berthing and departing port facilities.
For any skipper unsure of the give way rules that apply on the water and the role of a ship’s horn signals in communicating navigational intentions, all the information can be found on the Regional Council website
Relevant Bay of Plenty Navigation Safety Bylaw provisions:
- Clause 3.13.1 – Navigating a vessel so as to impede a vessel of 500GT or more
- Clause 3.14.3 – Navigation within a Moving Prohibited Zone
