Byelaw 48 of the Port of London River Byelaws 1978 (as amended) imposes a speed limit of 8 knots above Wandsworth Road Bridge. However, under section 1(b), a dispensation can be given to vessels engaged in escorting a rowing boat in training ("Rowing Coach Launches"). This Notice to Mariners lays down the criteria for this dispensation.
The following vessels may exceed the 8 knot speed limit between Wandsworth Road Bridge and Teddington:
1. Rowing Coaching Launches carrying one or two people in total
Provided that they are:
- displaying the appropriate Amateur Rowing Association (ARA) boat identification number;
- Registered as a club launch with the Thames Regional Rowing Council (TRRC); and
- engaged in bona fide rowing boat training or escorting an approved boat race or regatta (and for no other purpose).
2. Rowing Coaching Launches carrying more than two people in total
Provided that they are:
- registered by the Port of London Authority (PLA) and assessed as having acceptable wash characteristics;.
- displaying the appropriate ARA boat identification number;
- Registered as a club launch with the TRRC; and
- engaged in bona fide rowing boat training or escorting an approved boat race or regatta (and for no other purpose).
Note: Wash inspections can be arranged through the Harbour Master (Upper) Office. In order to establish the system quickly there will be no charge.
3. Commercial craft supporting rowing training or events
Provided that they are:
- licensed by the PLA and assessed as having acceptable wash characteristics;
- displaying the appropriate PLA registration markings; and
- engaged in bona fide rowing boat training or escorting an approved boat race or regatta (and for no other purpose).
Note: Wash inspections will be included in the vessel’s annual licensing inspection.
This Notice to Mariners is not a dispensation to generate excessive wash or to exceed the speed limit for any other purpose other than during bona fide rowing boat training or escorting an approved boat race or regatta.
Mariners’ attention is drawn to Section 108 of the Port of London Act (as amended) which provides:
A Master who navigates his vessel on the Thames:
(a) without due care and attention; or
(b) in a manner liable to injure or endanger persons, other vessels, the banks of the Thames whether above or below mean high water level) or any structure or installation in or beside the Thames;
shall be guilty of an offence and liable to a fine upon conviction.
