River Hamble Harbour Authority

Notice to River Users 26 of 2008

Harbour Dues

The public right of navigation is subject to the payment of appropriate Harbour Dues.   There are a number of craft using the harbour which are not displaying their Harbour Dues stickers to indicate that Harbour Dues have been paid.

Harbour Dues contribute towards the cost of the Harbour providing the following benefits

• The River remains safe, eliminating conflict between vessels large and small, power and sail.
• Speeding vessels and vessels making excessive wash are slowed and dealt with.
• The River remains environmentally clean and safe with minimum pollution.
• Advance notice of dinghy events is published to all marinas and boatyards to help reduce conflict between dinghies and larger vessels and therefore making the harbour safer.
• Harbour Patrols police major events keeping them safe.
• Event organisers receive advice and assistance with safety management.
• Patrols are stationed upstream and downstream during dinghy racing starts to help keep the area safe for dinghies and removing conflict between dinghies and larger vessels.
• Channel marks are maintained helping to remove larger boats out of dinghy sailing areas.
• Spits and shallow areas are properly marked wherever possible for the safety of small craft.
• The Harbour Authority coordinate rescue operations and provide assistance to small craft who find themselves in difficulties.

It is the vessel owner’s responsibility to ensure that the appropriate dues are paid.

Vessels who have not paid the appropriate dues are advised to do so as soon as possible.   Vessels failing to displaying the current sticker will be stopped and if Harbour Dues have not been paid the owner will be given one warning.   If payment is not forthcoming the Harbour Authority may seize the boat or consider to invoke small claims court proceedings.

Any queries should be directed to the Harbour Master on 01489 576387.

Harbour Masters Directio

AG Clatworthy
Harbour Master
River Hamble

20 June 2008