News
Leisure boat-owners advised on how best to safely enjoy The Tall Ships Races in Waterford
Those planning to take to the water in and around Waterford during the port’s hosting of The Tall Ships Races from June 30-July 3 have been urged to put safety first and to take a cautious and sensible approach during what will be a busy period on the Suir river and estuary.
Capt Darren Doyle, Harbourmaster, Port of Waterford, said safety is a huge focus for the host port team with personnel from the Marine Survey Office at the Dept of Transport, Tourism & Sport; Irish Coast Guard; An Garda Síochána Water Support Unit; RNLI; Irish Water Safety and Irish Naval Service all working to help ensure safety on water.
“The Tall Ships Races is a terrific event and huge work has gone in to delivering it successfully in Waterford six years on from our previous hosting of the international fleet and crews. We want to accommodate those keen to enjoy the spectacle on water but to do so safely. Given this, we have a ‘traffic plan’ in place that requires crafts to keep to the starboard side of the channel and follow other sensible precautions.
“Owners and operators of power boats should also be aware that excessive speed or navigating without due care and attention will endanger themselves and others. This is something that will not be tolerated and anyone who behaves recklessly on water will be liable to prosecution and a range of penalties. Jet skis will not be allowed in the inner port above Cheekpoint from June 27-July 4.
“Those in control of vessels must be trained and qualified for the type of craft involved and keep themselves aware of river conditions. It’s also important not to overload vessels beyond safe capacity and lifejackets must be worn by everyone on board throughout. The Suir Estuary can have strong currents and we would urge particular caution while turning at Rice Bridge.”
Capt Doyle said that the usual advice to mariners about checking their safety and emergency response equipment before setting out would be particularly important at such a busy time on the water. “Visitors should also be aware that fuelling and provisioning facilities will not be available in the inner port where there will also be no berthing or drop-off points on the city quays. It will also be necessary to restrict access to the event area completely at particular times while the visiting Tall Ships are arriving and departing so that they can be safely berthed. We would urge all boat users to comply with any advice or direction they receive on water from those policing the event.”
Meanwhile, Gardaí have advised boat-owners that it will not be possible to transport boats by road to harbours and villages along the Suir Estuary between Waterford and Dunmore East on Sunday, July 3. Garda Sgt Gavin Hegarty said: “With huge crowds expected to view the Parade of Sail from various villages and vantage points during that morning, traffic congestion is anticipated on routes along both sides of the estuary so it will not be possible to facilitate vehicles towing boats. Boat owners should plan accordingly so that their craft are on the water prior to that Sunday morning.”
Ends - June 10, 2011
