Cowes Floating Bridge

[bignick]

I came into Poole Harbour on the Barfleur last night and was watching the chain ferry as we approached, thinking, "That thing may have priority, but if she goes now, it's going to end in tears". She didn't, but left as soon as we were out of the way. A bit of common sense works wonders. OTOH, I have wondered of a bunch of WAFIs isn't considered good sport, at Sandbanks and Cowes

FYI

CHAIN FERRY BYELAW
Priority between chain ferry and other vessels. All vessels navigating in the Harbour which are not subject to compulsory pilotage shall give way to the chain ferry

From Poole Harbour Commissioners website:
Byelaw / GD'S | Regulations | Poole Habour Commissioners

 

[Stemar]

FYI

CHAIN FERRY BYELAW
Priority between chain ferry and other vessels. All vessels navigating in the Harbour which are not subject to compulsory pilotage shall give way to the chain ferry

From Poole Harbour Commissioners website:
Byelaw / GD'S | Regulations | Poole Habour Commissioners

Sensible rule.

Since I'm a bit small to need a pilot, I have to dodge.

 

[Boathook]

I came into Poole Harbour on the Barfleur last night and was watching the chain ferry as we approached, thinking, "That thing may have priority, but if she goes now, it's going to end in tears". She didn't, but left as soon as we were out of the way. A bit of common sense works wonders. OTOH, I have wondered of a bunch of WAFIs isn't considered good sport, at Sandbanks and Cowes

Poole vts operates on channel 14 I think. Chain ferry agrees with larger vessels as to which side it will be on as the ships enter. Seems to leave a decent time safety margin for ships heading towards it but as soon as they are past it is hauling on the chains.