approach to Thames

[DutchDan]

Hi all, thanks for previous answers.

Where can I look up the tides (thames estuarium) on internet?
And their are so many approaches, what's the best to go up to the Thames (to London).

Best.

Dan

 

[vandy]

Either go to PLA website

http://www.pla.co.uk/display_fixedpage.cfm/id/11

or use bbc:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/weather/coast_and_sea/tide_tables/

Compare both and then decide.

 

[vandy]

PM me, and I will send you a map,

do you have a chart plotter?

 

[Andrew_Fanner]

Once inside the estuary proper you should still follow the buoys but can stay on the land side in most reaches unless you are very deep draught. That will keep you out of the way of the big ships that still go up and down. Once past Tilbury and the Queen Elizabeth Bridge you won't often ter anything very large barring a Cobelfret ferry, and they stop just upstream of the bridge, but tend to have only two speeds,on and off

Have an almanac/pilot book to hand and check your VHF frequencies, you will need to be on 14 to request permission to transit the Barrier but closer to the sea the channel changes. Ride the rising tide and watch out for floating rubbish. Its a great way to go to London.

 

[vandy]

try this website, it does have loads of information on different approaches and full of charts and useful stuff.

http://www.visitmyharbour.com/harbours/thames-estuary/thames-estuary/charts.asp?cattype=5

http://www.visitmyharbour.com/harbours/thames-estuary/thames-estuary/expanded.asp

 

[DutchDan]

Hi Vandy, thanks. I do have a plotter!

 

[vandy]

You are fine then! As long as you have the charts you are fine when approaching. In the website I mentioned, you will find good information regarding the estuary currents. That's one thing you need to be aware of.

If you were too early to get into St. Katharine Dock then carry on cruising towards Richmond (pass the tower Bridge and come upstream). You can then spend sometime seeing the famous buildings and take a few pictures until the tide is high enough to get into St. Katharine Dock.

Enjoy your journey!