The information has been produced specifically for people who enjoy recreational activities afloat.

The guide urges yachtsmen to keep in mind the number of large commercial ships servicing the Port of Southampton while the number of recreational craft afloat in local waters is increasing. It is essential that close quarters situations are minimised.

The guide points out that all ships have a UK pilot on board, monitoring VHF Channel 12, and gives advice, amongst other things, on how quickly a ship is likely to be upon a yacht from the first time it can be seen several miles away.

A printed copy of the guide may be obtainable from the crew of the Harbour Master’s patrol launches, or you can request one by post. Please send an A4 sized stamped addressed the envelope to:-

Marine Administration (Yachtsman’s Guide),

Vessel Traffic Services Centre,

37 Berth,

Eastern Docks,

Southampton

SO14 3GG.

Report from www.sailworld.com