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BJ Marine has confirmed a massive Beneteau display at boot Düsseldorf which takes place 20-28 January 2024.

On the power stand will be a combination of the Swift Trawler, Gran Truismo, Antares and Flyer ranges.

The Grand Trawler 62 will be a star of the whole show, and BJ Marine is particularly excited to have the Antares 12 and Gran Truismo 41 on display.

The Grand Trawler 62 is expected to be the star of boot Düsseldorf 2024The Grand Trawler 62 is expected to be the star of boot Düsseldorf 2024

On the sailing stand, interest will be huge in the new Oceanis 37.1 as well as both of the Oceanis yachts, the 54 and 60. Also on display will be the much acclaimed First 36 as well as the First 44.

With daily flights and the show only 15 minutes from the airport, boot Düsseldorf remains the must-see event of the winter boat show season.

The much acclaimed First 36 will also be on displayThe much acclaimed First 36 will also be on display

If you are attending and would like some time aboard the Beneteau range, contact James Kirwan on 087 771 2223 or [email protected] to set up an appointment. Some of the display models are available for sale, with deals available from now, so do not hesitate to get in touch.

BJ Marine is the exclusive Beneteau dealer for Ireland, Northern Ireland and Wales.

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BJ Marine are delighted to confirm exciting line-ups of Beneteau sailboats for both the Cannes and Southampton boat shows this autumn.

First up is the Cannes Yachting Festival from 12-17 September where there Beneteau will have six boats on display.

Of particular interest will be the world premiere of the new Oceanis 37.1, while the First 44 will also be on the water after making its world debut ashore at boot Düsseldorf earlier this year.

Others on show in Cannes include the Oceanis 51.1, Oceanis Yacht 54, Oceanis Yacht 60 and First 53.

Cannes is always an incredibly busy show, so it’s best to make appointments to view the boats. James Kirwan will be in attendance for the duration so please contact him on 087 771 2223 or [email protected].

The First 44 will be on the water in Cannes and will also be on show in Southampton next month after making its world debut ashore at boot Düsseldorf earlier this year | Credit: BeneteauThe First 44 will be on the water in Cannes and will also be on show in Southampton next month after making its world debut ashore at boot Düsseldorf earlier this year | Credit: Beneteau

Next up is the Southampton International Boat Show from 15-24 September and again, a stunning line-up awaits those who travel.

The full BJ Marine team will be in attendance from our Greystones, Bangor, Cardiff and Pwllheli offices. Get in touch at [email protected] if you’re paying a visit and we will make it easier for you to get on the boats.

Southampton’s scheduled line-up includes the Oceanis 30.1, 34.1, 40.1 and 46.1 alongside the First 44 and First 36 — which was put through its paces in the Fastnet Race last month.

If you can’t travel to a show but are interested in a new sailboat, please let us know and we will look at other options to get you aboard! We have excellent trade in opportunities for orders this autumn.

Published in BJ Marine

We are delighted to finally be in a position to talk about the new Gran Turismo 45 from Beneteau writes Irish agent James Kirwan of BJ Marine 

We have had great success with the Gran Turismo range, in particular with the GT40, and this new 45 is ideally suited for our waters. An incredibly comfortable boat to drive with superb visibility and the option of either Volvo Z-drives or IPS, she lends herself to exploring our stunning coastline and travelling further afield. 

At low speed, the boat can be steered easily using the joystick and the optional bow thruster giving you fingertip control over in-harbour manoeuvres and berthing operations At low speed, the boat can be steered easily using the joystick and the optional bow thruster giving you fingertip control over in-harbour manoeuvres and berthing operations 

The cockpit has been cleverly designed, maximising space and minimising clutter. The Hydraulic Platform option will be very popular as it makes launching a tender effortless. The Glazed Cockpit doors also are ideal for our climate, enabling owners to seal the boat from the elements.

The Gran Turismo 45 hard-top has been completely redesigned to include much larger side windows that provide fabulous views of the open sea The Gran Turismo 45 hard-top has been completely redesigned to include much larger side windows that provide fabulous views of the open sea 

Essentially this is a boat that has been designed to be used, and as we have more people valuing what being afloat has to offer, we look forward to introducing this boat to all interested parties, whether they have been boating for years or if they are just getting started.

An elegant interior with grey walnut and white lacquered joinery An elegant interior with grey walnut and white lacquered joinery 

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Beneteau has launched the seventh generation of its First range small sailing cruisers and dayboats under the strapline: "Big boats bring the glory, but small boats make the sailors".

The First 24 and 27 are exciting sports cruisers, while First 14 is an innovative dinghy that brings fun and exciting sailing to everyone.

"We are delighted with the constant evolution and versatility of the First range", Irish Beneteau agent James Kirwan of BJ Marine told Afloat. "BJ Marine has sold more of the current First line up than any dealer in the UK/Ireland and it is definitely reflected in our passion for these boats", he said. 

In addition, a new product line of First SE – Seascape Edition, consisting of four models: 14SE, 18SE, 24SE and 27SE, was created. First SE is building on the legacy of Seascape boats and has the mission to bring modern one-design racing and adventure sailing in every sailor's hands.

The ability to specify these boats now for cruising or racing, or a healthy mix of both, makes them ideal for Irish waters and Irish owners as we look to maximise our time afloat and the value we get from our boats, Kirwan told Afloat. 

"We see the First 24 and 27 in particular as extremely relevant to domestic racing fleets and we are putting attractive “on the water” packages together for both. We can deliver new boats in time for this season which is fantastic", he said.

Back in the eighties, Beneteau brought the second generation of Firsts to life and with it a wide range of sailing experiences to every kind of sailors. The First range of cruiser-racers answered the needs of those looking to escape to the sea for family holidays or go racing with friends over the weekend. First Class one-design racers offered racing on a level playing field. And on top of that, Wizz, an innovative dinghy designed by studio Finot, opened the door to sailing for everyone.  

Forty years later Beneteau and Seascape's joined forces to reinvent the First for the new sailing era defined by accelerated innovation and progress. Focusing on the sailor and the sailing experience, Beneteau and Seascape created two distinct lines, First and First SE – Seascape Edition, to answer the needs of two distinct kinds of sailors.

FIRST 24: THE PERFECT FAMILY DAYSAILER

The new First 24 from BJ Marine: a fun day-sailorThe new First 24 from BJ Marine: a fun day-sailor

A smart pocket cruiser, fun day-sailor or an exciting club racer all-in-one, she is keeping the First promise of modern performance sailing. She can easily sleep up to 4 persons but at the same time still delivers fun, planning sailing experience. A completely retractable keel gives you access to cruising spots you missed so far and a possibility to launch and recover your 24 on an ordinary slipway, opening new opportunities.

Light and stable hull together with the aluminium rig, classic backstay and Dacron sails make it an ideal weekender and holiday cruiser. The open-space interior is based on huge sleeping surfaces and offers innovative solutions for the toilette, storage, and living space transformation. Winch operated deep composite/lead retractable keel, and removable rudder blades give you access to as little as 30cm of water while keeping the boat fast and stable while sailing. 

FIRST 27: AN EIGHT-METER CRUISER FOR THE NEW ERA

First 27 - A family day sailorFirst 27 - A family day sailor

She is the fastest and safest cruiser of her size. First 27 delivers fun and modern planing sailing thanks to modern design and building technologies. Families and couples will love taking her cruising, she will transform a light or strong wind day into a great sailing experience, and she will win trophies on the club races.

Being true to her pocket Yacht description, the 27 offers inboard Yanmar engine, separated Marine toilet, galley, fridge and up to 6 berths. Coachroof and hull windows together with big deck hatches bring a generous amount of light into the saloon while cockpit benches and removable table make living outdoors comfortable. Aluminium rig with classic backstay and dacron sails simplify life with the 27.  On the other hand, her striking performance is balanced by a number of safety features, including the deep, 1.7-meter lead fixed keel, twin rudders, and "insubmersibility" volumes, as the French manufacturers describe the new vessel's liability to flooding.

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Irish Beneteau agents BJ Marine has announced the launch of its Grand Trawler 62.

The Trawler 62 builds on the already established and market-leading range of Swift Trawlers, with boats from 30ft-50ft.

The new Grand Trawler 62 offers incredible interior living space with either 3 or 4 cabin configurations, finished and detailed to a remarkably luxurious standard. She has the ability to do true long-distance cruising, with a range of 900 nautical miles. Ideal for exploring the Irish coast or enjoying the best of what the Mediterranean has to offer.

2020 has again seen the continued popularity Beneteau's Swift Trawler range in Irish waters. BJ Marine handed over the first Swift Trawler 47 sold in the UK/Ireland in August and also had a new Swift Trawler 44 arrive in Greystones.

New Beneteau Swift Trawler 47 and Beneteau Swift Trawler 44 in IrelandBJ Marine handed over the first Swift Trawler 47 sold in the UK/Ireland in August and also had a new Swift Trawler 44 arrive in Greystones Marina

This builds on an existing fleet for the ’30s, '34s, '35s, '42s and 44s in Ireland. The Swift Trawlers have always been designed for owners to spend extended periods on board and The Grand Trawler 62 takes that to another level, becoming the flagship of the Beneteau powerboat offering.

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Beneteau’s parent group has followed its recent management shakeup with a new strategic plan aimed at scaling back production capacity and cutting costs worldwide.

The brand anticipates a contracting market for sailing and inboard motorboats in the wake of this year’s coronavirus restrictions, on a similar level to that of the 2008 economic crisis.

As a result, it says it “needs to significantly scale back its production capacity over the coming months, while simplifying its organisation and reducing all of its fixed costs”.

Measures being considered for the boat division’s 16 active moulding and assembly sites include the closure, sell-off or temporary shutdown of four locations — one in the US, one in Slovenia, and four in France where it currently operated 10 sites.

Also proposed is the scaling down of operations at three sites, in Italy, France and Poland respectively, while job cuts among production staff globally would also be in the offing — seeing between 300 and 840 people laid off.

Layoffs of up to 460 among indirect production, product development and support services staff worldwide are also being considered.

However, Beneteau says redundancies among staff based in France may be avoided if the affected employees accept proposed redeployments.

Despite the market turbulence, Group Beneteau says its net cash position as of the end of August was better than forecast.

An EGM held on 28 August approved a change of the group’s financial year-end date, which has been put back to 31 December of each year.

Further financial elements will be published on October 27, 2020, including information on the end of the summer season.

Beneteau — whose Irish agents are BJ Marine — said it can already confirm that business for the period from 1 September 2019 to 31 August 2020 “came in slightly better than the forecast” announced in July, particularly in the last quarter.

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It will come as no surprise that Beneteau are leading the way in terms of new models for 2021 — and the new Gran Turismo 36, the latest and hugely exciting addition to the Gran Turismo range, is no exception.

With powerful looks and bold lines, the GT36 is the first in her class to combine the kind of handling you would normally expect with a pure sports boat in combination with comfortable cruising and space for leisure.

Features to make the most of open-air boating include an aerodynamic hardtop with sliding roof, and a semi-recessed sunpad protected by a generous awning on the foredeck.

Beneteau GT36 exterior

The interior is bathed in natural light thanks to large hull windows and deck hatches, making for a bright canvas on which to put your individual stamp.

Beneteau GT36 interior

But what is particularly special about this 37ft model is that you can choose between inboard diesel or outboard propulsion, both of which will offer exceptional performance and ease of handling, like all GT models.

This follows the huge increase in outboard engines as the propulsion of choice in the Irish market, as observed by Beneteau’s Irish dealer BJ Marine.

Like the GT40 — of which BJ Marine have a new stock boat ready immediately — the GT36 will have a huge cockpit, ideal for days afloat with family and friends. And the interior lends itself to trips further afield and overnighting aboard.

“We have crossed the Irish Sea between our Greystones and Pwllheli offices many times in the GT models that we have sold to date, and look forward to doing so in this new model,” says BJ Marine group manager James Kirwan.

“This boat was designed to be used and boating has never been such a suitable and safe pastime.”

The Beneteau website has more details on the Gran Turismo 36, including a virtual tour. Contact BJ Marine at +353 1 287 8334 (or +44 1758-612686 in the UK) to book a test sail.

Published in BJ Marine

Continuing its new strategy in response to the coronavirus crisis hitting the global boating industry, French boatbuilder Beneteau has announced the reorganisation of the key management structure of its boat division.

As reported by International Boat Industry, company veteran Jean-Paul Chapeleau will now assume the duties of deputy CEO in charge of the recently formed unified industrial operations and development department.

Chapeleau was general manager of the Prestige brand until April this year and before that was GM of Jeanneau for over 10 years.

With these changes, CFO Bruno Thivoyon joins Groupe Beneteau’s board of directors, and deputy CEO of operational excellence and former CFO Christophe Caudrelier has departed the company.

Beneteau — whose Irish agents are BJ Marine — will present a “comprehensive” new strategy to investors on Saturday 11 July. International Boat Industry has more on the story HERE.

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Irish Beneteau agents BJ Marine are the people to see for spare and replacements parts ahead of the next week’s limited return to boating.

Whether it’s a replacement canvas, a cutlass bearing, a stanchion or just a locker catch — whatever it is, get in touch with [email protected] for pricing and availability and they will do the rest.

Published in BJ Marine

It’ll pay to act fast on this new cruising-spec Beneteau Oceanis 51.1 ready for delivery in June from BJ Marine.

The popular Oceanis 51.1 is sold out until later this year so this may be the last chance for a while to get your hands on a next-generation cruising yacht with three cabins (2 has) finished with Alpi brushed oak.

Other features include electric genoa winches, mainsail arch, thruster, coastal and offshore electronic packs, wood decks and much more besides.

The ticket price is €399,000 but trade-in is possible if you’re looking for a luxury upgrade to make the most of summer — once coronavirus restrictions allow.

For further details contact James Kirwan at BJ Marine at [email protected] or call +353877712223.

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General Information on using Waterways Ireland inland navigations

Safety on the Water

All users of the navigations are strongly recommended to make themselves aware of safety on the water for whatever activity they are involved in and to read the advice offered by the various governing bodies and by:

The Dept. of Transport, Ireland: www.gov.ie/transport and The Maritime and Coastguard Agency, UK, The RNLI – Water Safety Ireland for information in terms of drowning prevention and water safety.

Registration of Vessels

All vessels using the Shannon Navigation, which includes the Shannon-Erne Waterways and the Erne System must be registered with Waterways Ireland. Only open undecked boats with an engine of 15 horsepower or less on the Shannon Navigation, and vessels of 10 horsepower or less on the Erne System, are exempt. Registration is free of charge.

Craft registration should be completed online at: https://www.waterwaysireland.org/online-services/craft-registration

Permits for use of the Grand and Royal Canals and the Barrow Navigation

All vessels using the Grand and Royal Canals and the Barrow Navigation must display appropriate valid Permit(s) i.e A Combined Mooring and Passage Permit (€126) and if not intending to move every five days, an Extended Mooring Permit (€152).

Permit applications should be completed online at: https://www.waterwaysireland.org/online-services/canal-permits

Passage on the Royal and Grand Canals – Dublin Area

For boat passage through the locks east of Lock 12 into / out of Dublin on either the Royal or Grand Canals, Masters are requested to contact the Waterways Ireland Eastern Regional Office (M-F 9.30am-4.30pm) on tel: +353(0)1 868 0148 or email [email protected] prior to making passage in order to plan the necessary lock-keeping assistance arrangements.

On the Grand Canal a minimum of two days notice prior to the planned passage should be given, masters should note that with the exception of pre-arranged events, a maximum of 2 boats per day will be taken through the locks, travelling either east or west.

Movements in or out of the city will be organised by prior arrangement to take place as a single movement in one day. Boaters will be facilitated to travel the system if their passage is considered to be safe by Waterways Ireland and they have the valid permit(s) for mooring and passage.

Newcomen Lifting Bridge

On the Royal Canal two weeks’ notice of bridge passage (Newcomen Lifting Bridge) is required for the pre-set lift date, and lock assistance will then also be arranged. A minimum of 2 boats is required for a bridge lift to go ahead.

Waterways Ireland Eastern Regional Office (Tel: +353(0)1 868 0148 or [email protected] ) is the point of contact for the bridge lift.

A maximum number of boats passing will be implemented to keep to the times given above for the planned lifts (16 for the Sat / Sun lifts & 8 for the weekday lifts). Priority will be given on a first come first served basis.

On day of lift, boaters and passengers must follow guidance from Waterways Ireland staff about sequence of passage under bridge & through Lock 1, and must remain within signed and designated areas.

Events Held on the Waterways

All organised events taking place on the waterways must have the prior approval of Waterways Ireland. This is a twelve week process and application forms must be accompanied with the appropriate insurance, signed indemnity and risk assessment. The application should be completed on the Waterways Ireland events page at :

https://www.waterwaysireland.org/online-services/event-approval

Time Limits on Mooring in Public Harbours

On the Shannon Navigation and the Shannon-Erne Waterway craft may berth in public harbours for five consecutive days or a total of seven days in any one month.

On the Erne System, revised Bye Laws state that: No master or owner shall permit a vessel, boat or any floating or sunken object to remain moored at or in the vicinity of any public mooring, including mooring at any other public mooring within 3 kilometres of that location, for more than 3 consecutive days and shall not moor at that same mooring or any other public mooring within 3 kilometres of that location within the following 3 consecutive days without prior permission by an authorised official.

Winter Mooring on the Shannon Navigation and Shannon Erne Waterway

Winter mooring may be availed of by owners during the period 1 Nov to 31 Mar by prior arrangement and payment of a charge of €63.50 per craft. Craft not availing of Winter Mooring must continue to comply with the “5 Day Rule”. Winter Mooring applications should be completed online at : https://www.waterwaysireland.org/online-services/winter-moorings-booking

Owners should be aware that electricity supply and water supply to public moorings is disconnected for the winter months. This is to protect against frost damage, to reduce running costs and to minimise maintenance requirements during the winter months.

Vessel owners are advised that advance purchasing of electricity on the power bollards leading up to the disconnection date should be minimal. Electricity credit existing on the bollards will not be recoverable after the winter decommissioning date. Both services will be reinstated prior to the commencement of the next boating season.

Smart Cards

Waterways Ireland smart cards are used to operate locks on the Shannon Erne Waterway, to access the service blocks, to use the pump-outs along the navigations, to avail of electrical power at Waterways Ireland jetties.

Berthing in Public Harbours

Masters are reminded of the following:

  • Equip their vessel with mooring lines of appropriate length and strength and only secure their craft to mooring bollards and cleats provided for this purpose.
  • Ensure the available berth is suitable to the length of your vessel, do not overhang the mooring especially on finger moorings on floating pontoon moorings.
  • Ensure mooring lines, electric cables and fresh water hoses do not create a trip hazard on public jetties for others users.
  • Carry sufficient fenders to prevent damage to your own vessel, other vessels and WI property.
  • Allow sufficient space between your vessel and the vessel ahead /astern (c.1m) for fire safety purposes and /or to recover somebody from the water.
  • Do not berth more than two vessels side by side and ensure there is safe access/egress at all times between vessels and onto the harbour itself.
  • Do not berth in such a way to prevent use of harbour safety ladders, slipways or pump-outs.
  • Do not allow the bow of your vessel to overhang the walkway of a floating mooring thus creating a hazard for others with an overhanging anchor or bow fendering.
  • Animals are not allowed to be loose or stray at any time.
  • Harbour and jetty infrastructure such as railings, power pedestals, fresh water taps, electric light poles, safety bollards, ladders etc are not designed for the purpose of mooring craft , they will not bear the strain of a vessel and will be damaged.
  • At Carrybridge on the Erne System, Masters of vessels are not permitted to use stern on mooring. Masters of vessels must use the mooring fingers for mooring of vessels and for embarkation / disembarkation from vessels.

Passenger Vessel Berths

Masters of vessels should not berth on passenger vessel berths where it is indicated that an arrival is imminent. Passenger vessels plying the navigations generally only occupy the berths to embark and disembark passengers and rarely remain on the berths for extended periods or overnight.

Lock Lead-in Jetties

Lead-in jetties adjacent to the upstream and downstream gates at lock chambers are solely for the purpose of craft waiting to use the lock and should not be used for long term berthing.

Vessel Wake

Vessel wake, that is, the wave generated by the passage of the boat through the water, can sometimes be large, powerful and destructive depending on the hull shape and engine power of the vessel. This wake can be detrimental to other users of the navigation when it strikes their craft or inundates the shoreline or riverbank. Masters are requested to frequently look behind and check the effect of their wake / wash particularly when passing moored vessels, on entering harbours and approaching jetties and to be aware of people pursuing other activities such as fishing on the riverbank.

Speed Restriction

A vessel or boat shall not be navigated on the Shannon Navigation at a speed in excess of 5 kph when within 200 metres of a bridge, quay, jetty or wharf, when in a harbour or canal or when passing within 100 metres of a moored vessel or boat.

Vessels navigating the Shannon-Erne Waterway should observe the general 5 kph speed limit which applies along the waterway. This is necessary in order to prevent damage to the banks caused by excessive wash from vessels.

Vessels navigating the Erne System should observe the statutory 5kt / 6mph / 10kph speed limit areas.

A craft on the Royal and Grand canals shall not be navigated at a speed in excess of 6km per hour.

A craft on the Barrow Navigation shall not be navigated at a speed in excess of 11km per hour except as necessary for safe navigation in conditions of fast flow.

Bank Erosion

Narrow sections of all the navigations are particularly prone to bank erosion due to the large wash generated by some craft. Masters are requested to be vigilant and to slow down to a speed sufficient to maintain steerage when they observe the wash of their craft inundating the river banks.

Unusual Waterborne Activity

Unusual waterborne vessels may be encountered from time to time, such as, hovercraft or amphibious aircraft / seaplanes. Masters of such craft are reminded to apply the normal “Rule of the Road” when they meet conventional craft on the water and to allow extra room to manoeuvre in the interest of safety.

Sailing Activity

Mariners will encounter large numbers of sailing dinghies from late June to August in the vicinity of Lough Derg, Lough Ree and Lower Lough Erne. Sailing courses are marked by yellow buoys to suit weather conditions on the day. Vessels should proceed at slow speed and with due caution and observe the rules of navigation when passing these fleets, as many of the participants are junior sailors under training.

Rowing

Mariners should expect to meet canoes and vessels under oars on any part of the navigations, but more so in the vicinity of Athlone, Carrick-on-Shannon, Coleraine, Enniskillen and Limerick. Masters are reminded to proceed at slow speed and especially to reduce their wash to a minimum when passing these craft as they can be easily upset and swamped due to their very low freeboard and always be prepared to give way in any given traffic situation.

Canoeing

Canoeing is an adventure sport and participants are strongly recommended to seek the advice of the sport’s governing bodies i.e Canoeing Ireland and the Canoe Association of Northern Ireland, before venturing onto the navigations.

Persons in charge of canoes are reminded of the inherent danger to these craft associated with operating close to weirs, sluice gates, locks and other infrastructure particularly when rivers are in flood and large volumes of water are moving through the navigations due to general flood conditions or very heavy localised precipitation e.g. turbulent and broken water, stopper waves. Shooting weirs is prohibited without prior permission of Waterways Ireland.

Canoeists should check with lockkeepers prior entering a lock to ensure passage is done in a safe manner. Portage is required at all unmanned locks.

Canoe Trail Network – "Blueways"

Masters of powered craft are reminded that a canoe trail network is being developed across all navigations and to expect more organised canoeing along these trails necessitating slow speed and minimum wash when encountering canoeists, rowing boats etc

Rockingham and Drummans Island Canals – Lough Key

It is expected that work on Rockingham and Drummans Island Canals on Lough Key will be completed in 2021. Access to these canals will be for non-powered craft only, eg canoes, kayaks, rowing boats.

Fast Powerboats and Personal Watercraft (Jet Skis)

Masters of Fast Powerboats (speed greater than 17kts) and Personal Watercraft (i.e.Jet Skis) are reminded of the inherent dangers associated with high speed on the water and especially in the confines of small bays and narrow sections of the navigations. Keeping a proper look-out, making early alterations to course and /or reducing speed will avoid conflict with slower vessels using the navigation. Personal Watercraft are not permitted to be used on the canals.

Towing Waterskiers, Wakeboarders, Doughnuts etc

Masters of vessels engaged in any of these activities are reminded of the manoeuvring constraints imposed upon their vessel by the tow and of the added responsibilities that they have to the person(s) being towed. These activities should be conducted in areas which are clear of conflicting traffic. It is highly recommended that a person additional to the master be carried to act as a “look-out” to keep the tow under observation at all times.

Prohibition on Swimming

Swimming in the navigable channel, particularly at bridges, is dangerous and is prohibited due to the risk of being run over by a vessel underway in the navigation.

Age Restrictions on operating of powered craft

In the Republic of Ireland, Statutory Instrument 921 of 2005 provides the legal requirements regarding the minimum age for operating of powered craft. The Statutory Instrument contains the following requirements:

- The master or owner of a personal watercraft or a fast power craft shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that a person who has not attained the age of 16 years does not operate or control the craft

- The master or owner of a pleasure craft powered by an engine with a rating of more than 5 horse power or 3.7 kilowatts shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that a person who has not attained the age of 12 years does not operate or control the craft.

Lifejackets and Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

Lifejackets and PFD’s are the single most important items of personal protective equipment to be used on a vessel and should be worn especially when the vessel is being manoeuvred such as entering / departing a lock, anchoring, coming alongside or departing a jetty or quayside.

In the Republic of Ireland, Statutory Instrument 921 of 2005 provides the legal requirements regarding the wearing of Personal Flotation Devices. The Statutory Instrument contains the following requirements:

- The master or owner of a pleasure craft (other than a personal watercraft) shall ensure, that there are, at all times on board the craft, sufficient suitable personal flotation devices for each person on board.

- A person on a pleasure craft (other than a personal watercraft) of less than 7 metres length overall shall wear a suitable personal flotation device while on board an open craft or while on the deck of decked craft, other than when the craft is made fast to the shore or at anchor.

- The master or owner of a pleasure craft (other than a personal watercraft) shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that a person who has not attained the age of 16 years complies with paragraph above.

- The master or owner of a pleasure craft (other than a personal watercraft), shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that a person who has not attained the age of 16 years wears a suitable personal flotation device while on board an open craft or while on the deck of a decked craft other than when it is made fast to the shore or at anchor.

- The master or owner of a pleasure craft (other than a personal watercraft) shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that a person wears a suitable personal flotation device, at all times while – (a) being towed by the craft, (b) on board a vessel or object of any kind which is being towed by the craft.

Further information is available at: http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/2005/si/921/made/en/print

Firing Range Danger Area – Lough Ree

The attention of mariners is drawn to the Irish Defence Forces Firing Range situated in the vicinity of buoys No’s 2 and 3, on Lough Ree on the Shannon Navigation. This range is used regularly for live firing exercises, throughout the year, all boats and vessels should stay clear of the area marked with yellow buoys showing a yellow "X" topmark and displaying the word "Danger".

Shannon Navigation, Portumna Swing Bridge Tolls

No attempt should be made by Masters’ of vessels to pay the bridge toll while making way through the bridge opening. Payment will only be taken by the Collector from Masters when they are secured alongside the jetties north and south of the bridge.

Navigating from Killaloe to Limerick on the Shannon Navigation

The navigation from Killaloe to Limerick involves passage through Ardnacrusha locks, the associated headrace and tailrace and the Abbey River into Limerick City. Careful passage planning is required to undertake this voyage. Considerations include: lock passage at Ardnacrusha, water flow in the navigation, airdraft under bridges on Abbey River in Limerick, state of tide in Limerick

Users are advised to contact the ESB Ardnacrusha hydroelectric power station (00353 (0)87 9970131) 48 hours in advance of commencing their journey to book passage through the locks at Ardnacrusha. It is NOT advised to undertake a voyage if more than one turbine is operating (20MW), due to the increased velocity of flow in the navigation channel, which can be dangerous. To ascertain automatically in real time how many turbines are running, users can phone +353 (0)87 6477229.

For safety reasons the ESB has advised that only powered craft with a capacity in excess of 5 knots are allowed to enter Ardnacrusha Headrace and Tailrace Canals.

Passage through Sarsfield Lock should be booked on +353-87-7972998, on the day prior to travel and it should be noted also that transit is not possible two hours either side of low water.

A Hydrographic survey in 2020 of the navigation channel revealed that the approach from Shannon Bridge to Sarsfield Lock and the Dock area has silted up. Masters of vessels and water users are advised to navigate to the Lock from Shannon bridge on a rising tide one or two hours before High Tide.

Lower Bann Navigation

The attention of all users is drawn to the “Users Code for the Lower Bann”, in particular to that section covering “Flow in the River” outlining the dangers for users both on the banks and in the navigation, associated with high flow rates when the river is in spate. Canoeists should consult and carry a copy of the “Lower Bann Canoe Trail” guide issued by the Canoe Association of Northern Ireland. Users should also contact the DfI Rivers Coleraine, who is responsible for regulating the flow rates on the river, for advisory information on the flow rates to be expected on any given day.

DfI Rivers Coleraine. Tel: 0044 28 7034 2357 Email: [email protected]

Lower Bann Navigation – Newferry – No wake zone

A No Wake Zone exists on the Lower Bann Navigation at Newferry. Masters of vessels are requested to proceed at a slow speed and create no wake while passing the jetties and slipways at Newferry.

Overhead Power Lines (OHPL) and Air draft

All Masters must be aware of the dangers associated with overhead power lines, in particular sailing vessels and workboats with cranes or large air drafts. Voyage planning is a necessity in order to identify the location of overhead lines crossing the navigation.

Overhead power line heights on the River Shannon are maintained at 12.6metres (40 feet) from Normal Summer level for that section of navigation, masters of vessels with a large air draft should proceed with caution and make additional allowances when water levels are high.

If a vessel or its equipment comes into contact with an OHPL the operator should NOT attempt to move the vessel or equipment. The conductor may still be alive or re-energise automatically. Maintain a safe distance and prevent third parties from approaching due to risk of arcing. Contact the emergency services for assistance.

Anglers are also reminded that a minimum ground distance of 30 metres should be maintained from overhead power lines when using a rod and line.

Submarine Cables and Pipes

Masters of vessels are reminded not to anchor their vessels in the vicinity of submarine cables or pipes in case they foul their anchor or damage the cables or pipes. Look to the river banks for signage indicating their presence.

Water Levels - Precautions

Low Water Levels:

When water levels fall below normal summer levels masters should be aware of:

Navigation

To reduce the risk of grounding masters should navigate on or near the centreline of the channel, avoid short cutting in dog-legged channels and navigating too close to navigation markers.

Proceeding at a slow speed will also reduce “squat” effect i.e. where the vessel tends to sit lower in the water as a consequence of higher speed.

Slipways

Reduced slipway length available under the water surface and the possibility of launching trailers dropping off the end of the concrete apron.

More slipway surface susceptible to weed growth requiring care while engaged in launching boats, from slipping and sliding on the slope. Note also that launching vehicles may not be able to get sufficient traction on the slipway once the craft is launched to get up the incline.

Bank Erosion

Very dry riverbanks are more susceptible to erosion from vessel wash.

Lock Share

Maximising on the number of vessels in a lock will ensure that the total volume of water moving downstream is decreased. Lock cycles should be used for vessels travelling each way.

High Water Levels:

When water levels rise above normal summer level masters should be aware of:

Navigation

Navigation marks will have reduced height above the water level or may disappear underwater altogether making the navigable channel difficult to discern.

In narrow sections of the navigations water levels will tend to rise more quickly than in main streams and air draft at bridges will likewise be reduced.

There will also be increased flow rates particularly in the vicinity of navigation infrastructure such as bridges, weirs, locks etc where extra care in manoeuvring vessels will be required.

Harbours and Jetties

Due care is required in harbours and at slipways when levels are at or near the same level as the harbour walkways' as the edge will be difficult to discern especially in reduced light conditions. It is advised that Personal Flotation Devices be worn if tending to craft in a harbour in these conditions.

Slipways

Slipways should only be used for the purpose of launching and recovering of water craft or other objects from the water. Before using a slipway it should be examined to ensure that the surface has sufficient traction/grip for the intended purpose such as launching a craft from a trailer using a vehicle, that there is sufficient depth of water on the slipway to float the craft off the trailer before the concrete apron ends and that the wheels of the trailer do not drop off the edge of the slipway. That life-saving appliances are available in the vicinity, that the vehicle is roadworthy and capable of coping with the weight of the trailer and boat on the incline. It is recommended that slipway operations are conducted by two persons.

Caution to be Used in Reliance upon Aids to Navigation

The aids to navigation depicted on the navigation guides comprise a system of fixed and floating aids to navigation. Prudent mariners will not rely solely on any single aid to navigation, particularly a floating aid to navigation. With respect to buoys, the buoy symbol is used to indicate the approximate position of the buoy body and the ground tackle which secures it to the lake or river bed. The approximate position is used because of the practical limitations in positioning and maintaining buoys in precise geographical locations. These limitations include, but are not limited to, prevailing atmospheric and lake/river conditions, the slope of and the material making up the lake/river bed, the fact that the buoys are moored to varying lengths of chain, and the fact that the buoy body and/or ground tackle positions are not under continuous surveillance. Due to the forces of nature, the position of the buoy body can be expected to shift inside and outside the charted symbol.

Buoys and perches are also moved out of position or pulled over by those mariners who use them to moor up to instead of anchoring. To this end, mariners should always monitor their passage by relating buoy/perch positions with the published navigation guide. Furthermore, a vessel attempting to pass close by always risks collision with a yawing buoy or with the obstruction that the buoy or beacon/perch marks.

Masters of Vessels are requested to use the most up to date Navigation guides when navigating on the Inland Waterways.

Information taken from Special Marine Notice No 1 of 2023