The Tidal Thames
The following notes and links are more relevant to the tidal section of the Thames, that is the section below Teddington lock. These are a summary provided for information only.
  • Each skipper must ensure their vessel is in good working order, be sufficiently knowledgeable of the rules of the tideway, be responsible for the safety of their crew, their vessel and ensure they do not impede or endanger any other vessel on the tideway.
At a minimum each skipper should:
  • Check the weather conditions.
  • Check for any applicable Notices to Mariners, issued by the PLA
  • Know the state of tide for the planned passage
  • Document their Passage Plan and ensure their crew understand it
  • Ensure your VHF radio is operational, and that you have a valid licence and list of the appropriate channels
  • Monitor VHF Channel 14 when between Teddington, through central London to Dagenham (Crayfordness). Channel 68 until Southend Pier the Channel 69 then takes over.
  • Ensure all crew have and wear lifejackets.
  • Observe speed limits on the tidal Thames:
    Do not to exceed a speed of 8 knots above Wandsworth Bridge. There is a strict 12 knot speed limit throughout central London. This limit applies between Wandsworth Bridge and Margaretness (which is located near Barking Creek.
  • Be aware of applicable Thames Bylaws
  • In any event be aware of wash their vessel is creating.
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But most of all enjoy their passage through London - it's a fabulous sight!
HW London Bridge (Tower Pier) typically occurs 53 minutes (+/- 19 min) before HW at Richmond Lock [i.e. Can range from 72 minutes before to 34 minutes before the same tide.