Difference between revisions of "Rules for Tidal Thames"

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These rules apply to paddling on the tidal Thames.
+
'''Home Waters: Rules for the Tidal Thames'''
−
 
 
−
==Definitions==
 
−
The tidal Thames centred on the Shadwell Pierhead and covering the area from Greenwich Pier to Westminster Bridge
 
−
 
 
−
'''Downstream''' of the Shadwell Pierhead classified as '''moderate water''' under normal weather and tide conditions (at nil tide downstream includes the upstream section as far as the river police station)
 
−
 
 
−
'''Upstream''' of the Shadwell Pierhead classified as '''advanced water''' under normal weather and tide conditions
 
−
 
 
−
===Private trips===
 
−
Any trip not specifically covered by these rules or listed herein as a “private trip” is carried by members in their individual capacity and '''entirely at their own risk'''
 
−
 
 
−
Club accepts no liability for actions or failures of members on private trips
 
−
 
 
−
Private trips should be marked as such on website forum or other communication
 
−
 
 
−
No private trip may take place in home waters during “Tuesday Club” hours
 
−
 
 
  
 
==Port of London Authority Compliance==
 
==Port of London Authority Compliance==
−
The Tidal Thames is a navigable river under the control of the PLA
+
The Tidal Thames is a navigable river under the control of the '''Port of London Authority''' (PLA).
−
 
+
All paddling must be in compliance with all '''rules and directives''' issued by the PLA.
−
Any group paddling on Thames home waters must comply with rules and directives issued by the PLA  
+
All paddlers on the Tidal Thames should familiarise themselves with the most recent PLA paddling guidance found at http://www.boatingonthethames.co.uk/Paddling
−
 
 
−
All paddlers on Thames home waters should familiarise themselves with the most recent PLA paddling guidance found at http://www.boatingonthethames.co.uk/Paddling  
 
−
 
 
−
Paddlers must be aware of any current notices to mariners issued by the PLA at http://www.pla.co.uk/Safety/Regulations-and-Guidance/Notices-to-Mariners
 
−
 
 
−
An exceptional group of more than 30 paddlers (e.g. Christmas paddle) is classified as an event and require advance notice to the PLA
 
−
 
 
  
−
==Requirements for paddlers==
+
Paddlers must be aware of any current notices to mariners issued by the PLA at http://www.pla.co.uk/Safety/Regulations-and-Guidance/Notices-to-Mariners
−
To paddle on the tidal Thames, you must meet one of the following conditions:
 
−
* Hold BCU Three Star award
 
−
* Passed THCC’s ''Introduction to Paddling on the River Thames'' course (“Qualified Paddler”)
 
−
* Satisfied the requirements of a Qualified Paddler
 
  
−
===Thames Qualified Paddler===
+
An exceptional group of more than 30 paddlers (e.g. Christmas paddle) is classified as an event and requires advance notice to the PLA.
−
To paddle on the Thames, you must have a BCU Three Star award, or have passed THCC’s “Introduction to Paddling on the River Thames” course (“Qualified Paddler”).  
 
  
 +
==Requirements for Paddlers==
 +
To paddle on the Tidal Thames other than as part of a coached or led group, a paddler must meet both of the following conditions:
 +
* Hold the BC 3* Star award / BC Sea Kayak award and
 +
* Have completed the Club’s “Introduction to Paddling on the River Thames” course
 +
A visiting paddler (not intending to paddle regularly with the Club) who does not hold the relevant formal UK qualification must be assessed to the level of a “Thames Qualified Paddler” before being allowed to paddle on the Thames.
 
A Thames Qualified Paddler is a Club-specific designation and applies to a paddler who has:
 
A Thames Qualified Paddler is a Club-specific designation and applies to a paddler who has:
−
* been assessed by both an L2 holding Moderate Water Endorsement and a 4* Sea Kayak award holder  
+
* been assessed by both an L2 Coach holding Moderate Water Endorsement and a 4* Sea Kayak award holder / Moderate Water Sea Leader
−
* demonstrates sufficient awareness of the hazards and protocols
+
* demonstrated sufficient awareness of the hazards and protocols
−
* demonstrates an adequate ability to handle themselves in a safe manner on the Tidal Thames home waters  
+
* demonstrated an adequate ability to handle themselves in a safe manner on the Tidal Thames home waters
−
 
+
Broadly speaking a Thames Qualified Paddler would be expected to demonstrate minimum skills and awareness comparable to those of the 3* Sea award.
−
The Club will maintain a list of Thames Qualified Paddlers for the avoidance of doubt.
+
−
 
+
The Club will maintain a list of Thames Qualified Paddlers.
−
=== Non Thames Qualified Paddler ===
 
−
A paddler who has a BCU Two Star award may join a group of Qualified Paddlers on a one to one buddy system, provided that there are at least three Qualified Paddlers.
 
−
 
 
−
A paddler joining THCC for regular paddling on the Thames with significant relevant experience but without the above qualifications or an equivalent BCU recognised foreign qualification may be granted Qualified Paddler status subject to he/she demonstrating his/her skills in a brief basin assessment. In addition, he/she should join the “Introduction to Paddling on the River Thames” course, when it is run.
 
  
−
A visiting paddler (i.e. a non THCC member not intending to paddle regularly on the Thames) may be permitted to join a Thames group by the Qualified Paddlers of that group, subject to equipment availability and capacity constraints. THCC is not obliged to accommodate the request of any visiting paddler.  The visiting paddler must satisfy the requirements of a Qualified Paddler before being allowed to participate on a river paddle.
+
A Thames Qualified Paddler may be permitted to join a Thames group, subject to equipment availability and capacity constraints. The Club is not obliged to accommodate the request of any visiting paddler.
  
−
==Group co-ordination==
+
==Group Composition and Co-ordination==
−
Each group must have a leader or, if no leader, then a co-ordinator  
+
Each group must either a '''leader''' or a '''co-ordinator'''. A group without a leader must appoint one of its number to act as co-ordinator.
−
A group without a leader must appoint one of its number to act as co-ordinator
+
Where possible and sensible, a group should not exceed ten paddlers.
  
−
===Nominate a trip co-ordinator===
+
===Role of the '''co-ordinator'''===
−
Each group should nominate one of their number to be its co-ordinator. Each member of the group is responsible for his/her own safety, and must also take all reasonable measures to ensure the safety of the group generally. As THCC is a not for profit activity club and as the co-ordinator is an unpaid volunteer, the coordinator assumes no legal responsibility for the safety of the group. One of his/her roles is to co-ordinate, with the support and assistance of the rest of the group, the recovery of a capsize, the management of an accident or other safety issue.
+
The co-ordinator should
−
 
+
* Agree with the group the direction of travel and any resting points, taking into account the predicted tide at the time of paddle
−
===Role of the co-ordinator===
+
* Were the group is unable to agree any of these topics, the '''co-ordinator’s decision is final'''.
−
Hold a trip briefing before departure and agree with the group:
+
* Ensure the group is familiar with the '''PLA rules''' and current '''PLA notices'''
−
* the direction of travel
+
* Ensure the group meets the '''minimum experience''' to paddle on the Thames  
−
* any resting points, taking into account the predicted tide at the time of paddle
+
* Ensure the group has the necessary '''safety and lighting equipment''' with them  
−
* crossing points and general safety for that trip
+
* Ensure a '''trip briefing''' is held before departure
−
Where the group is unable to agree any of these topics, the co-ordinator’s decision is final.
+
* Ensure '''London VTS is notified''' of the group size and direction of travel before the group leaves, and is notified when the group returns.
−
 
+
* Ensure all group members have '''signed the trip log''' and any '''incidents''' are '''recorded''' on the log  
−
Ensure London VTS is informed of the group size and direction of travel before the group leaves, and is notified when the group returns.
+
The co-ordinator is '''not responsible for leading the group'''.
−
 
 
−
Ensure that the appropriate safety kit is carried by the group.
 
−
 
 
−
Ensure the group:
 
−
* is familiar with the PLA rules and current notices  
 
−
* meets the minimum experience to paddle on the Thames  
 
−
* has the necessary safety and lighting equipment with them  
 
−
* members have signed the trip log and any incidents are recorded on the log  
 
−
 
 
−
The co-ordinator is '''not''' responsible for leading the group  
 
  
 
===Role of the leader===
 
===Role of the leader===
−
The same points as the co-ordinator
+
The same points as the co-ordinator, plus:
−
Leading the group on the water  
+
* '''Leading''' the group on the water  
  
−
===Buddy up===
+
===Role of the individual paddler===
−
A one to one buddy system should be organised so that paddlers are monitoring each other, particularly at tricky parts of the Thames.
+
Each paddler must:
 +
* '''Comply''' with these rules.
 +
* '''Assist''' the co-ordinator.
 +
* In addition to meeting the Club’s criteria for paddling on the Thames, satisfy him/herself that he/she has the '''necessary skills and experience''' for paddling on the Thames in the conditions prevailing at the time.
 +
* Ensure that he/she uses appropriate '''footwear''', a '''buoyancy aid''' and, if required, '''lights'''.
  
−
A buddy should paddle close enough to know where the other is
+
===Buddy system===
 +
* A '''one-to-one''' buddy up system should operate
 +
* A buddy should paddle close enough to know where the other is
 +
* A buddy should summon help if the other gets into difficulty
  
−
A buddy should summon help if the other gets into difficulty
+
==Group Preparation==
−
 
+
===Log participants===
−
===Notify London VTS===
+
Before going on the Thames, each paddler must write his/her name on the whiteboard in their paddling groups. The group co-ordinator should be highlighted on the board.
−
Inform London VTS by VHF on Channel 14 (alternatively by phone on 020 8855 0315) of group size and direction prior to departure, and inform them of the group’s safe return.
+
===Carry required safety equipment===
−
 
+
Each '''group''' should carry a safety pack containing:
−
It is best practice to inform London VTS when crossing over to the other bank  
+
* A '''VHF radio''' or '''mobile phone'''
−
 
+
* At least '''2 towlines'''
−
The group should monitor VHF Channel 14 for any broadcasts while under way  
+
* A set of '''splits'''
−
 
+
* A '''pump'''
−
===Have at least three Qualified Paddlers===
+
* A '''first aid kit'''
−
Paddlers must paddle in a group consisting of at least three Qualified Paddlers. Where possible and sensible, a group should not exceed ten paddlers.
+
'''Individual paddlers''' must have with them:
−
 
+
* A '''buoyancy aid'''
−
===Group paddling formation===
+
* When any part of the paddle occurs in the hours of darkness, paddlers must have adequate '''lights''' as specified by the PLA
−
Paddlers within a group must paddle together within a distance (not to exceed 50 metres, from the paddler at the front to the one at the back) that allows for easy communication between all group members and to allow each member to be able to respond on a timely basis to incidents. The formation should be appropriate to the immediate environment; e.g. long train through constricted hazards; in a tight group when crossing the fairway
+
* PLA lights guidance can be found at www.boatingonthethames.co.uk/Paddling
 +
Individual paddlers should have with them:
 +
* A '''whistle'''
 +
* Appropriate '''clothing'''
 +
===Notifying London VTS===  
 +
The group should inform London VTS (port authority) preferably by VHF Channel 14 to advise:
 +
* group size
 +
* paddle direction
 +
* departure time
 +
* safe return  
 +
It is best practice to inform London VTS when crossing over to the other bank.
 +
The group should monitor VHF Channel 14 for any broadcasts while under way.  
  
 +
==Under Way==
 +
===Paddle area===
 +
The group should paddle within an area that allows for '''easy communication between all group members''' and allows any member to respond to incidents on a timely basis.
 +
The formation should be '''appropriate''' to the '''immediate environment'''; e.g. long train through constricted hazards; in a tight group when crossing the fairway
 +
Paddlers should '''avoid paddling in the centre of the fairway'''
 +
* The main fairway is used for shipping.
 +
* Paddlers who paddle in the fairway for navigational reasons must be aware of Rule 9 of the Collision Regulations of the International Regulations for the Prevention of Accidents at Sea, which “requires vessels to keep as near as possible to the outer limit of the channel lying on their starboard side as is practicable” (i.e. powered vessels are obliged to be as close as possible to the river bank – this means a canoeist also has to be as close as possible to the river bank, especially when a powered vessel passes by).
 +
Paddlers should keep as safe as possible to the '''outer edge of the channel''', on the '''right-hand side''' of the fairway in the direction of travel.
 +
Canoes and kayaks must '''keep well clear of vessels''' such as tugs and tows, passenger vessels and commuter craft.
 
===Show required lights===
 
===Show required lights===
−
If paddling after sunset, each paddler must have at least one non flashing white light switched on, on his/her boat/person. Each group should also have at least one all round white light switched on. Paddlers must be aware of dangers from behind and the group should ensure that 50% of the lights are facing backwards.
+
If paddling after '''sunset''', each paddler must have at least one non flashing white light switched on, on his/her boat/person. Each group should also have at least one all round white light switched on. Paddlers must be aware of dangers from behind and the group should ensure that 50% of the lights are facing backwards.
−
 
+
===Crossing the fairway===
−
===Carry required safety equipment===
+
Paddlers must
−
====Group equipment====
+
* cross the fairway only when it is '''clear of other moving vessels'''
−
Each group should carry a safety pack containing:
+
The group should:
−
* VHF radio (or mobile phone)
+
* cross as a '''tight group''' rather than a single file
−
* Two-person emergency shelter
+
* cross the Thames at '''right angles'''
−
* At least two towlines
+
The strength of the tide may require the group to paddle a diagonal course using a ferry glide. Wait until the Thames is clear of traffic and ensure the group stays together when crossing. Paddle so as to minimise the time spent in the fairway during the crossing
−
* Set of splits
+
It is best practice to notify London VTS before crossing.
−
* Pump
 
−
* A first aid kit
 
−
 
 
−
====Individual equipment====
 
−
Each paddler should have:
 
−
* A buoyancy aid
 
−
* When any part of the paddle occurs in the hours of darkness, paddlers must have adequate lights as specified by the Port of London Authority (PLA) guidance found at http://www.boatingonthethames.co.uk/Paddling
 
−
* A Whistle
 
−
* Appropriate clothing
 
−
 
 
−
 
 
−
These packs will be stored in the club cupboard/office.
 
−
 
 
−
===Stay out of the Fairway===
 
−
You should avoid paddling in the main fairway of the Thames whenever possible. The main fairway is used for shipping. Canoeists who paddle in the fairway for navigational reasons must be aware of Rule 9 of the [[IRPCS|Collision Regulations]] of the International Regulations for the Prevention of Accidents at Sea, which “requires vessels to keep as near as possible to the outer limit of the channel lying on their starboard side as is practicable” (i.e. powered vessels are obliged to be as close as possible to the river bank – this means a canoeist also has to be as close as possible to the river bank, especially when a powered vessel passes by).
 
−
 
 
−
===Cross at right angles===
 
−
Cross the Thames at right angles. The strength of the tide may require you to paddle a diagonal course using a ferry glide. Wait until the Thames is clear of traffic and ensure the group stays together when crossing. Paddle so as to minimise the time spent in the fairway during the crossing. It is best practice to notify London VTS before crossing.
 
−
 
 
−
===Log participants===
 
−
Before going on the Thames, each paddler must write his/her name on the whiteboard in their paddling groups. Group co-ordinator should be highlighted on the board.
 
−
 
 
−
''For large club events such as the Christmas paddle, appropriate safety arrangements will be made for that individual event, following the above rules as closely as possible.''
 
−
 
 
−
==Co-ordinator’s role==
 
−
 
 
−
#Ensure that London VTS is informed of the group size and direction of travel before the group leaves, and is notified when the group returns.
 
−
#Ensure that the appropriate safety kit is carried by the group.
 
−
#Agree with the rest of the group, the course, distance, resting places, crossing points and general safety for that trip. Where the group is unable to agree any of these topics, the co-ordinator’s decision is final.
 
−
#See [[#Nominate a trip co-ordinator]] above.  
 
  
−
==Each paddler’s role==
+
==Special Events==
 +
Large club events such as the Christmas paddle, require appropriate safety arrangements, in consultation with the PLA, while following the above rules as closely as possible.
  
−
#Comply with the River rules above.
 
−
#Assist the co-ordinator.
 
−
#In addition to meeting THCC criteria for paddling on the Thames, satisfy him/herself that he/she has the necessary skills and experience for paddling on the Thames in the conditions prevailing at the time.
 
−
#Ensure that he/she uses appropriate footwear, buoyancy aid and light(s).
 
  
−
==Group size and ratios==
+
==Group Size and Ratios==
  
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
Line 157: Line 113:
 
! Coached Session
 
! Coached Session
 
! Uncoached Session
 
! Uncoached Session
−
! New BCU Awards
+
! 2019 BC Awards
 
|-
 
|-
 
| style="text-align: center; width:100px"|'''Downstream'''
 
| style="text-align: center; width:100px"|'''Downstream'''
  
 
under normal conditions
 
under normal conditions
−
|style="vertical-align: middle; text-align: center;"|1 x L2 Moderate Water Endorsement : 4 x 1* students
+
|style="vertical-align: middle; text-align: center;"|1 x L2 MWE : 4 x 1* students
  
 
PLUS
 
PLUS
  
−
For each 1 x 4* Sea : another 2 x 1*
+
For each 1 x 4* Sea : another 2 x 1* can go
−
Must include 1 x VHF operator
 
  
 +
Group must include 1 x VHF operator
  
−
Max group size: 8
+
Maximum group size: 8
  
 
|style="vertical-align: middle; text-align: center;"|1 x 4* Sea : 4 x paddlers 1* or 2*
 
|style="vertical-align: middle; text-align: center;"|1 x 4* Sea : 4 x paddlers 1* or 2*
Line 176: Line 132:
 
PLUS
 
PLUS
  
−
For another 4* : 4 x 2* can go
+
For each additional 4* : 4 x 2* can go
  
 +
For each additional 3* : 1 x 2* can go
  
  
Line 183: Line 140:
  
  
−
3 x 3* Sea
+
3 x 3* Sea / Sea Kayak Award / Thames Qualified Paddler
−
 
 
−
+ 1 x group co-ordinator + VHF
 
  
 
PLUS
 
PLUS
  
−
1 x 2* for each 3*
+
For each additional 3* : 1 x 2* can go
  
  
−
Recommended group size: 10
+
Group must include 1 x Co-ordinator + 1 x VHF operator
 +
Recommended maximum group size: 10
  
 
|'''Minimum Coach: '''
 
|'''Minimum Coach: '''
  
−
Sea Kayak Coach (Moderate Water Endorsement)
+
Sea Kayak Coach (Moderate Water)
  
 
Performance Coach Sea
 
Performance Coach Sea
Line 203: Line 159:
 
'''Minimum Leader:'''
 
'''Minimum Leader:'''
  
−
Sea Kayak Leader  
+
Sea Kayak Leader (Moderate Water)
  
 +
OR
  
−
'''Minimum independent peer group paddler: '''
+
White Water Leader + Coastal Sea Award + knowledge of Thames paddling
  
−
Sea Kayak Award
 
  
  
 
'''Minimum for Thames paddling:'''
 
'''Minimum for Thames paddling:'''
  
−
Paddle Explore Kayak
+
Explore Award (enclosed kayak)
  
 
|-
 
|-
Line 228: Line 184:
 
|style="vertical-align: middle; text-align: center;"|1 x 4* Sea : 4 x 2* paddlers
 
|style="vertical-align: middle; text-align: center;"|1 x 4* Sea : 4 x 2* paddlers
  
 +
OR
  
−
OR
+
1 x 4* Sea + 1 x 3* Sea : 6 x 2* paddlers
 +
 
 +
PLUS
  
 +
For each additional 3*: 1 x 2* can go
  
−
1 x 4* Sea + 1 x 3* Sea : 6 x 2* paddlers
 
  
−
3 x 3* Sea including
+
OR
  
−
1 x group co-ordinator + VHF
 
  
−
PLUS
+
3 x 3* Sea
−
1 x 4* : another 2* can join
 
  
−
1 x 3* : another 2* can join
 
  
 +
Group must include 1 x Co-ordinator + 1 x VHF operator
  
−
Recommended group size: 10
+
Recommended maximum group size: 10
  
 
|style="width:350px;"|'''Minimum Leader:'''
 
|style="width:350px;"|'''Minimum Leader:'''
Line 253: Line 210:
  
 
''Sea Kayak Award''
 
''Sea Kayak Award''
−
 
−
 
−
'''QP status:'''
 
  
  
 
'''Minimum for Thames paddling:'''
 
'''Minimum for Thames paddling:'''
  
−
Paddle Explore Kayak
+
Explore Award (enclosed kayak)
  
 
|-
 
|-

Latest revision as of 21:56, 31 October 2021

Home Waters: Rules for the Tidal Thames

Port of London Authority Compliance

The Tidal Thames is a navigable river under the control of the Port of London Authority (PLA). All paddling must be in compliance with all rules and directives issued by the PLA. All paddlers on the Tidal Thames should familiarise themselves with the most recent PLA paddling guidance found at http://www.boatingonthethames.co.uk/Paddling

Paddlers must be aware of any current notices to mariners issued by the PLA at http://www.pla.co.uk/Safety/Regulations-and-Guidance/Notices-to-Mariners

An exceptional group of more than 30 paddlers (e.g. Christmas paddle) is classified as an event and requires advance notice to the PLA.

Requirements for Paddlers

To paddle on the Tidal Thames other than as part of a coached or led group, a paddler must meet both of the following conditions:

  • Hold the BC 3* Star award / BC Sea Kayak award and
  • Have completed the Club’s “Introduction to Paddling on the River Thames” course

A visiting paddler (not intending to paddle regularly with the Club) who does not hold the relevant formal UK qualification must be assessed to the level of a “Thames Qualified Paddler” before being allowed to paddle on the Thames. A Thames Qualified Paddler is a Club-specific designation and applies to a paddler who has:

  • been assessed by both an L2 Coach holding Moderate Water Endorsement and a 4* Sea Kayak award holder / Moderate Water Sea Leader
  • demonstrated sufficient awareness of the hazards and protocols
  • demonstrated an adequate ability to handle themselves in a safe manner on the Tidal Thames home waters

Broadly speaking a Thames Qualified Paddler would be expected to demonstrate minimum skills and awareness comparable to those of the 3* Sea award.

The Club will maintain a list of Thames Qualified Paddlers.

A Thames Qualified Paddler may be permitted to join a Thames group, subject to equipment availability and capacity constraints. The Club is not obliged to accommodate the request of any visiting paddler.

Group Composition and Co-ordination

Each group must either a leader or a co-ordinator. A group without a leader must appoint one of its number to act as co-ordinator. Where possible and sensible, a group should not exceed ten paddlers.

Role of the co-ordinator

The co-ordinator should

  • Agree with the group the direction of travel and any resting points, taking into account the predicted tide at the time of paddle
  • Were the group is unable to agree any of these topics, the co-ordinator’s decision is final.
  • Ensure the group is familiar with the PLA rules and current PLA notices
  • Ensure the group meets the minimum experience to paddle on the Thames
  • Ensure the group has the necessary safety and lighting equipment with them
  • Ensure a trip briefing is held before departure
  • Ensure London VTS is notified of the group size and direction of travel before the group leaves, and is notified when the group returns.
  • Ensure all group members have signed the trip log and any incidents are recorded on the log

The co-ordinator is not responsible for leading the group.

Role of the leader

The same points as the co-ordinator, plus:

  • Leading the group on the water

Role of the individual paddler

Each paddler must:

  • Comply with these rules.
  • Assist the co-ordinator.
  • In addition to meeting the Club’s criteria for paddling on the Thames, satisfy him/herself that he/she has the necessary skills and experience for paddling on the Thames in the conditions prevailing at the time.
  • Ensure that he/she uses appropriate footwear, a buoyancy aid and, if required, lights.

Buddy system

  • A one-to-one buddy up system should operate
  • A buddy should paddle close enough to know where the other is
  • A buddy should summon help if the other gets into difficulty

Group Preparation

Log participants

Before going on the Thames, each paddler must write his/her name on the whiteboard in their paddling groups. The group co-ordinator should be highlighted on the board.

Carry required safety equipment

Each group should carry a safety pack containing:

  • A VHF radio or mobile phone
  • At least 2 towlines
  • A set of splits
  • A pump
  • A first aid kit

Individual paddlers must have with them:

  • A buoyancy aid
  • When any part of the paddle occurs in the hours of darkness, paddlers must have adequate lights as specified by the PLA
  • PLA lights guidance can be found at www.boatingonthethames.co.uk/Paddling

Individual paddlers should have with them:

  • A whistle
  • Appropriate clothing

Notifying London VTS

The group should inform London VTS (port authority) preferably by VHF Channel 14 to advise:

  • group size
  • paddle direction
  • departure time
  • safe return

It is best practice to inform London VTS when crossing over to the other bank. The group should monitor VHF Channel 14 for any broadcasts while under way.

Under Way

Paddle area

The group should paddle within an area that allows for easy communication between all group members and allows any member to respond to incidents on a timely basis. The formation should be appropriate to the immediate environment; e.g. long train through constricted hazards; in a tight group when crossing the fairway Paddlers should avoid paddling in the centre of the fairway

  • The main fairway is used for shipping.
  • Paddlers who paddle in the fairway for navigational reasons must be aware of Rule 9 of the Collision Regulations of the International Regulations for the Prevention of Accidents at Sea, which “requires vessels to keep as near as possible to the outer limit of the channel lying on their starboard side as is practicable” (i.e. powered vessels are obliged to be as close as possible to the river bank – this means a canoeist also has to be as close as possible to the river bank, especially when a powered vessel passes by).

Paddlers should keep as safe as possible to the outer edge of the channel, on the right-hand side of the fairway in the direction of travel. Canoes and kayaks must keep well clear of vessels such as tugs and tows, passenger vessels and commuter craft.

Show required lights

If paddling after sunset, each paddler must have at least one non flashing white light switched on, on his/her boat/person. Each group should also have at least one all round white light switched on. Paddlers must be aware of dangers from behind and the group should ensure that 50% of the lights are facing backwards.

Crossing the fairway

Paddlers must

  • cross the fairway only when it is clear of other moving vessels

The group should:

  • cross as a tight group rather than a single file
  • cross the Thames at right angles

The strength of the tide may require the group to paddle a diagonal course using a ferry glide. Wait until the Thames is clear of traffic and ensure the group stays together when crossing. Paddle so as to minimise the time spent in the fairway during the crossing It is best practice to notify London VTS before crossing.

Special Events

Large club events such as the Christmas paddle, require appropriate safety arrangements, in consultation with the PLA, while following the above rules as closely as possible.


Group Size and Ratios

Environment Coached Session Uncoached Session 2019 BC Awards
Downstream

under normal conditions

1 x L2 MWE : 4 x 1* students

PLUS

For each 1 x 4* Sea : another 2 x 1* can go

Group must include 1 x VHF operator

Maximum group size: 8

1 x 4* Sea : 4 x paddlers 1* or 2*

PLUS

For each additional 4* : 4 x 2* can go

For each additional 3* : 1 x 2* can go


OR


3 x 3* Sea / Sea Kayak Award / Thames Qualified Paddler

PLUS

For each additional 3* : 1 x 2* can go


Group must include 1 x Co-ordinator + 1 x VHF operator Recommended maximum group size: 10

Minimum Coach:

Sea Kayak Coach (Moderate Water)

Performance Coach Sea


Minimum Leader:

Sea Kayak Leader (Moderate Water)

OR

White Water Leader + Coastal Sea Award + knowledge of Thames paddling


Minimum for Thames paddling:

Explore Award (enclosed kayak)

Upstream

under normal conditions


Downstream

under adverse conditions

No coached sessions in this environment 1 x 4* Sea : 4 x 2* paddlers

OR

1 x 4* Sea + 1 x 3* Sea : 6 x 2* paddlers

PLUS

For each additional 3*: 1 x 2* can go


OR


3 x 3* Sea


Group must include 1 x Co-ordinator + 1 x VHF operator

Recommended maximum group size: 10

Minimum Leader:

Sea Kayak Leader


Minimum buddy:

Sea Kayak Award


Minimum for Thames paddling:

Explore Award (enclosed kayak)

Advanced water No club trips - private trips only
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