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Rivercraft tips for canal boats

In summer, many canal and narrowboats venture onto the River Severn.   They can be crewed by experienced inland canal boaters or newbie holiday makers   -   you may notice little difference if either is on a major river for the first time !


Don't forget the current

river canal boat speeds Boaters used to the inland canal system should remember that there is always a current on the river.

It is obvious, but often forgotten (!) that you will be travelling at more than the normal speed of your boat when going downstream. Even with your engine stopped you may still be moving!

Conversely, your progress against the current will be slower.

For that reason, it is usually safer to turn into the current when you are about to moor. Then you will have greater control and can ease your craft alongside the mooring.


Rules of Navigation

You may meet commercial vessels and Skippers' should know the basic rules of navigation

Always keep a good look out on the River and do not forget to look astern from time to time. A large vessel may about to overtake you.

In general, keep to the right.

If you meet a boat going in the opposite direction, you should move to the right (pass port to port).

It you intend to overtake a slower boat, then wait until the path ahead is clear, then overtake, leaving the boat you are overtaking to the right. Remember when going upstream the current is against you and overtaking may take longer than you expect.

Motor boats (most narrowboats) must give way to sailing boats and all unpowered craft.
 rules of river

Safety


Do not underestimate the power of a river. You craft should be properly equiped.

Carry an anchor, with an adequate length of chain and warp, attached to the boat and ready for immediate use.

If your engine breaks down, you may not drift into the bank but be carried over or swept against the next weir.  Tragically, it happens almost every year.

Remember that river depths, clearance under bridges and the strength of the current will vary according to the present and recent weather.

The YouTube video* emphasies, the potential dangers, even in summer, of river boating.


Index River Severn Sharpness Canal Severn Estuary Bristol Channel Tides Skipper's Reference Ports of Call Canal Boats Severn Links

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* Video from YouTube by user moggyjo.