Module 18 - Signals & Communications
Harbour and Traffic Signals
Harbour entrances, locks, bridges, and traffic-controlled channels may display lights, boards, flags, or VHF instructions. The exact system is local, so the skipper must check the almanac, sailing directions, harbour website, local notices, and VHF working channel before arrival.
Never assume that a green light alone makes an entrance safe. It may only mean permission to proceed subject to depth, traffic, weather, and local instructions. If a signal is unclear, hold clear in safe water and call harbour control.
Key points
- Check local traffic signals before arrival
- Use the harbour VHF working channel when required
- Hold clear if signals are unclear
- Do not enter a controlled harbour against a closed signal
- Traffic permission does not remove the skipper's responsibility for safety
Continue studying Signals & Communications
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