Dublin Bay Sailing Club (DBSC) has introduced three amendments to its 2026 Sailing Instructions, strengthening safety guidance around large vessels and updating race management procedures. The changes took effect from 3 July and apply across the club's racing programme.
The most significant amendment extends the requirement for competitors to keep clear of commercial shipping to include all large power-driven vessels.
The revised instruction now covers naval ships, Customs vessels, Irish Lights vessels, cruise ships and their tenders.
In guidance issued to competitors, DBSC notes that sailors should not assume a stationary vessel is anchored unless an anchor chain is visible.
"If a vessel is not anchored or moored, it is 'under way'," the club states.
Competitors are also warned not to sail across the bow or close ahead of any large vessel under way, even if it appears stationary, as it may be preparing to increase speed or alter course.
The guidance is particularly relevant in Dublin Bay, where Dun Laoghaire Harbour's Berth 3 is reserved for naval vessels and Scotsman's Bay is a recognised anchorage.
A second amendment affects all courses using a committee boat. It allows race officers to establish alternative start and finish lines if the committee vessel is unable to anchor in its normal position. The change updates Sailing Instruction Supplements B, C, D and G.
The third amendment applies only to dinghy racing and revises the relevant dinghy sailing instructions.
DBSC has urged all competitors to read the amended Sailing Instructions carefully and contact the club if they have any queries.
