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Displaying items by tag: Dun Laoghaire Marina

Plans for additional bus layover spaces at Dun Laoghaire DART Station have have drawn criticism from the harbour’s 800-plus-berth marina.

In a letter to berth holders, Dun Laoghaire Marina says the proposed change, which would see a number of car parking spots on Harbour Road re-designated for bus use, “will mean a further loss of car parking within the harbour and one which directly impacts marina visitors”.

The marina company has already made a submission to the Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council under the open public consultation “as we are greatly concerned with the 55% reduction in car parking around the marina over the last decade”.

It added: “While we support any additional public transport connections within the harbour (or locally), the continued reduction in car parking spaces which serve an 820-berth marina cannot go unchallenged.”

Full details on the new bus stand layout are available on the DLRCoCo website and submissions are open until to Friday 12 January 2024.

Published in Dun Laoghaire Marina

Dun Laoghaire Marina on Dublin Bay currently has a vacancy for the position of Marina Supervisor.

This is a full-time position working in an outdoor environment on a four-on-two-off rota pattern.

To summarise the main responsibilities of this position: 

  • Have enthusiasm for and direct knowledge of boats and boating.
  • Be physically fit and well-presented, able to work unsupervised and under pressure in a customer-related industry.
  • Familiar with general maintenance projects
  • Dispense fuel to boats.
  • Complying fully with all regulations relating to Health & Safety, employee conduct, environmental policy, fire precautions and emergency procedures.

The successful applicant will have:

  • Excellent customer service skills
  • Excellent organisational skills and the ability to work on their own initiative.
  • An excellent level of English (both written and oral) is essential
  • At least basic computer literacy
  • VHF licence and familiarity with the use of VHF procedures
  • National Powerboat Certificate (or equivalent)

Above all else, we require a reliable, sensible and professional team member who is willing to commit to our high levels of customer service and help maintain the 5 Gold
Anchor standard of Dun Laoghaire Marina.

This is a permanent position, and successful candidates will receive on-site training and familiarisation prior to commencement.

This is an established position, and if you feel that you can meet the required criteria, please contact (by mail or email):

Mr Paal Janson,
General Manager,
Dun Laoghaire Marina,
Harbour Road,
Dun Laoghaire,
Co. Dublin.
Email: [email protected]

Published in Dun Laoghaire Marina
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French and Scandinavian yachts are the summer's most popular visitors to Dun Laoghaire Marina as Ireland's marine leisure capital sees a significant increase in visiting yachts since COVID-19 restrictions were lifted.

The visitors included one of the world's biggest 'leisure boats', the Cook Islands-flagged forty-metre Phoenix in May, continuing a pre-COVID trend of superyacht visits to the south Dublin town. 

"French yachts, in particular, are arriving in record numbers, as are the Scandinavians", according to the marina's General Manager Paal Janson.

The 40-metre superyacht Phoenix arrived in Dun Laoghaire Marina in May, one of the first such visitors to Ireland's largest marina this seasonThe brand new 40-metre Italian superyacht Phoenix arrived in Dun Laoghaire Marina in May, one of the first such visitors to Ireland's largest marina this season

Built in 2001, the Marina on Dublin Bay is industry rated as a 'Five Gold Anchor' marina and is Ireland's largest marina facility, with 800 berths for both local and visiting craft.

French yachts into the harbour have increased by 82%, from 62 in 2019 to 113 this season.

Dun Laoghaire Marina is proving a popular destination for international yachting visitors with its local attractions and transport linksDun Laoghaire Marina is a popular destination for international yachting visitors with its local attractions and transport links Photo: Peter Barrow

The early visitor figures – a crucial indicator of Ireland's high-spending marine leisure tourism – also show a drop so far in UK boats, even though, as Janson notes, 'British sailors can avail of Common Travel Area freedoms for hassle-free entry to Ireland'.

UK visits were 219 in 2019 and are 198 to date. There were no Finnish visitors at all in 2019, but four have arrived this summer so far. 

Paal Janson, General Manager of Dun Laoghaire MarinaPaal Janson, General Manager of Dun Laoghaire Marina Photo: Afloat

"These visitors stay local and spend in the shops and restaurants of Dun Laoghaire town, adding further importance and value to the local community," he said.

A comparison between 2022 and 2019 visitors (pre and post-covid) reveals some buoyant increases. 

What's more, the data for 2019 is over six months while 2022 is over 4.5 months; therefore, the positive figures continue to increase with 1.5 months of the 2022 season left.

Published in Dun Laoghaire Marina
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Spinal Injuries Ireland and Dun Laoghaire Marina on Dublin Bay have announced the installation of a new Oxford Dipper Hoist to allow wheelchair users to easily access boats.

Wheelchair user, Jenny Needham, is the Administration Manager at the Marina and she welcomes the hoist as “it is bringing accessibility to the harbour”. The marina also has a fully accessible self-contained lavatory and shower which is immediately accessible from the forecourt.

Paal Janson, General Manager of Dun Laoghaire Marina says “promoting and facilitating accessible boating has long been an important cause for Dun Laoghaire Marina. Disability shouldn’t be a barrier to getting out on the water and we are keen to facilitate that ambition. We are pleased to work with Spinal Injuries Ireland to make access for all a reality.”

Spinal Injuries Ireland have a RIB, Niamh, berthed in the marina and this is a popular element of their Let’s Go Activity Programme. People who have suffered a spinal cord injury can take a trip up the Liffey with family or friends and maybe a spin around Dalkey Island, weather and tide permitting, before enjoying tasty fish and chips from the East Pier. This type of experience can show someone who has experienced such a life-changing injury that there is fun to be had and give them confidence to take on new challenges and set new goals.

Fiona Bolger, CEO of SII, states “SII’s powerboat trips in Dublin Bay are one of our most popular activities. Often the trip in Dublin Bay is the first time a newly injured person and their family go on an excursion together and the feedback is very positive. We could not provide this service if it was not for Dun Laoghaire Marina, MGM Boats and our team of loyal volunteers.’

The purchase of the new hoist was partly funded by HSE National Lottery Grant, a Community Activity Grant from Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council and funding from Dun Laoghaire Marina.

Spinal Injuries Ireland would also like to thank Paal Janson and the team at Dun Laoghaire Marina for supporting the programme and Gerry Salmon of MGM Boats for his generous sponsorship of the fuel.

Dun Laoghaire Marina is seeking experienced candidates for the role of Bookkeeper / Administration.

This is a key position within the marina administration team.

The role requires someone who is highly organised, customer-focused and enjoys working in a financial and administrative support position.

As Bookkeeper / Administration, you will be responsible for the day-to-day accounts function of the company and backup for the front of office administration.

Accounts Responsibilities:

  • Thorough understanding of customer account maintenance e.g. allocations, raising invoices, posting payments, dealing with invoice queries etc.
  • Provide accurate, timely and regular financial information.
  • Reconciling company bank accounts.
  • Management of financial processes relating to marina berthing, fuel sales and front of house income.
  • ROS Returns.
  • Timely and effective collection of all debts and customers payments.
  • Assist with the preparation of monthly management accounts, variance analysis and weekly key metrics reporting. The role assists the external accountant with preparing accounts.
  • Credit control and managing debtors.

Administrative Responsibilities:

  • Ensure the smooth and adequate flow of information within the company to facilitate other business operations.
  • Ability to deal with customer enquiries regarding marina business.
  • General administration duties in support of Administration Manager.

Requirements:

  • Minimum 3+ years’ experience working as an Accounts Assistant / Book-keeper.
  • IT literate, with advanced Excel skills.
  • Efficiency in data processing, and great attention to detail
  • Ability to work on own initiative, with the support of colleagues.
  • Previous experience in a customer facing role.
  • Strong organisation and communication skills, both written and verbal.
  • The ability to work with multiple distractions in a fast-paced office is essential.
  • An interest or experience with boating is not essential, but would be helpful.

The role will report to the General Manager. It is a full-time role and is based in our Dun Laoghaire Marina office.

Application Process:

E-mail a Curriculum Vitae and Covering Letter outlining relevant experience, skills and qualifications to: [email protected]

Published in Jobs
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The 40-metre superyacht Phoenix arrived in Dun Laoghaire Marina on Monday, one of the first such visitors to Ireland's largest marina this season. 

The brand new motor yacht was built in Italy by Benetti and delivered to her owners in 2021. She is one of 18 Oasis 40M models.

Phoenix is in the top 30% by length overall in the world according to industry statistics. She is one of 549 motor yachts in the 40-45m size range and certainly she dwarfs the local boats (typically between 7 and 12 metres) at Dun Laoghaire Harbour.

Her top speed is 17.0 kn, her cruising speed is 16.0 kn, and she boasts a maximum cruising range of 4000.0 nm at 11.0 kn, with power coming from two MAN diesel engines. She can accommodate up to 10 guests in 5 staterooms, with 7 crew members. She has a gross tonnage of 385.0 GT and a 8.5 m beam.

Phoenix is currently sailing under the Cook Islands flag (along with a total of other 107 yachts).

Published in Superyachts

Normally found in the cold waters of the Arctic, North Atlantic, and North Pacific ocean, this unusual-looking lumpsucker fish was discovered on the dock at Dun Laoghaire Marina on Dublin Bay this morning.

"The Icelandic fish them for their eggs, as false caviar as the eggs are black", according to Dr Kevin Flannery of Mara Beo in Dingle County Kerry.

Lumpsuckers or lumpfish are mostly small scorpaeniform marine fish of the family Cyclopteridae.

While the greatest number of species are found in the North Pacific, Dr Flannery provides a clue as to how this one might have found its way into the capital's waters. "They are now growing half a million of them in Bantry, County Cork for fish farms as they eat the lice and so replace chemicals and give natural biological upgrades to salmon farms," he says.

Nevertheless, it left Dublin berth holders scratching their heads how it ended up on the dock at Ireland's biggest marina this morning but the most likely scenario is that it was discarded by local fishermen and seagulls had a go at moving it on but found this Lump a bit heavy to carry.

Published in Dun Laoghaire Marina

A 'Red Bull' tribute to Front Line COVID-19 pandemic staff took place over Dublin Bay this afternoon leaving massive heart shapes in the sky over Dun Laoghaire Harbour.

The Red Bull Flyover Project was originally planned for the Bay at 1 pm but instead took place three hours later at 4 pm in fine but cloudy weather.

Two Red Bull formation aircraft operated offshore, east of Poolbeg chimneys and south towards Dun Laoghaire Harbour, generating approx ten hearts.

Two safety RIBs were positioned offshore as well as a Dublin Port Pilot boat to provide support for the stunt.

Heartfelt: Red Bull stunt planes make shapes in the sky over Dublin as a tribute to COVID-19 front line staffHeartfelt: Red Bull stunt planes make shapes in the sky over Dublin as a tribute to COVID-19 front line staff

Published in Dun Laoghaire Marina

In line with government guidelines for Public sports amenities, Dun Laoghaire Marina will provide full access to its berth holders in ten days time.

While the country's biggest marina - with over 500 berths - has been open, manned and fully functioning throughout the lockdown period, government guidelines meant berth holders could not access their boats.

The facility closed to berth holders on Friday 27 March as more measures restricting movement to slow the spread of Covid-19 were implemented.

However, the new roadmap set out by the government now means the summer season can get underway in Dun Laoghaire harbour, even in a limited way to start off with. 

National bodies such as the Irish Marine Federation have also come out in support of May 18 as an opening of such facilities.

Dun Laoghaire Marina is asking that family-units only visit boats initially 'as boats do not readily allow physical distancing to be maintained', according to a notice to berth holders issued yesterday.

The Marina will keep toilets, changing rooms & laundry shut to avoid cross-contamination for the moment, subject to review. Pot-water hoses will be returned and reconnected in due course also. 'We want to ensure that all our berth holders, guests and staff can use the marina in a safe and responsible manner and that their health not be put at undue risk at any time', the notice says.

The fuel berth will reopen on May 18th and the marina asks that payments are made by card.

General Manager Paal Janson tells berth holders, 'We would reiterate that boating is a safe and responsible outdoor activity and there is now a clear pathway to getting back to normality. We would like you now to get full enjoyment from your boat and make 2020 a summer to remember, instead of a year to forget'.

Published in Dun Laoghaire Marina
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Dun Laoghaire Marina has been closed to berth-holders with immediate effect, following the Taoiseach’s announcement last night (Friday 27 March) of more measures restricting movement to slow the spread of Covid-19.

In a statement sent out following Leo Varadkar’s address to the nation, Dun Laoghaire Marina general manager Paal Janson confirmed that the facility is now “shut completely, as directed by the Government, for a period of 14 days” from midnight this morning, Saturday 28 March until Easter Sunday, 12 April.

He added: “There will be no access to berth holders, contractors or any visitors. Fuelling for boats will cease for this period also. The marina will maintain access for necessary state and emergency service vessels, etc.”

In addition, new travel restrictions have been extended to “the arrival of personal non-national maritime leisure vessels is banned (except to exceptions as ‘port in a storm’)”, according to the Government.

Janson continued: “Marina staff come under the category of essential workers and will be present at the marina throughout this period. Your boats will be checked daily and staff will deal with any issues that arise. We will be contactable throughout on [email protected] and 01 2020040.

“We are now about to sail into the worst of this storm and it’s time to heave-to and weather it as best we all can. We respectfully ask that you follow Government guidelines and stay at home.”

Prior to the Taoiseach’s address, the Royal Cork Yacht Club announced the cancellation of Cork Week this July and all planned Cork300 events from now until August, while the Department of Transport issued guidance to the maritime industry on measures in response to the virus.

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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