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This section covers the coasts from Blakney in The Wash to The River Roach and approaches to the Thames Estuary. The sequence is from N to S.

Blakeney (52°57'N., 1°02'E.), situated 6 miles E of Wells, is approached through a shallow channel. The small harbour is formed by a creek. Small craft can enter but must take the ground at LW. The entrance fairway is marked by buoys and range beacons; these aids are frequently moved due to changes in the channel. A conspicuous church, 33m high, stands in the village and can be seen from every part of the coast between Hunstanton and Cromer; in clear weather, it has been reported visible from the vicinity of Dudgeon Shoal (53°16’N., 0°57’E.). A prominent windmill stands at Cley, 0.7 mile E of Blakeney.

Off-lying dangers...Blakeney Knock and Blakeney Overfalls (53°03'N., 0°57'E.) are the outermost of several shoal ridges which project E from the E end of Burnham Flats. They lie parallel with the coast about 5 miles offshore and have least depths of 2.1 to 2.7m.  Stiffkey Overfalls, lying about 3.8 miles NNW of High Cape, is a shallow tongue of shoal water connected to the coastal bank by Bridgirdle. Sheringham Shoal, with a least depth of 3.7m, lies about 8 miles NE of Blakeney. Pollard, with a least depth of 5.2m, lies 1.5 miles offshore, about 3.5 miles NE of Blakeney.  Blakeney Overfalls, Bridgirdle, and Sheringham Shoal are marked by buoys.

Tides...Currents...Near Scolt Head, the currents are reported to be weak, but increase gradually to the E attaining a spring velocity of 2 to 3 knots off Cromer. There may be ripples or overfalls in the vicinity of the above-mentioned shoals.

Caution...Several wrecks, some dangerous, lie in the vicinity of the off-lying shoals and may best be seen on the chart. 

Weybourne (52°57'N., 1°08'E.) is situated 5.5 miles ESE of the entrance to Blakeney. The coast between is low and sandy and fringed by a shingle beach. The coast then begins to rise and consists, for the most part, of moderately high cliffs.  Conspicuous marks include the tower of the church at Weybourne and three water tanks standing close W of it. Prominent marks include a church standing 2 miles WNW of Weybourne and a long low building, with a mast, standing near the beach, 1 mile NW of Weybourne.

Sheringham (52°57'N., 1°13'E.), situated 2.5 miles E of Weybourne, stands in a hollow between two prominent hills. A large hotel building stands on the cliff and is conspicuous. Prominent churches stand 0.5 mile and 0.7 mile ESE of the town.  Four high radio masts, marked by obstruction lights, stand 2.8 miles SSW of Sheringham. These lights are reported to be visible for at least 5 miles in clear visibility, but are obscured by the land when within 1.5 miles of the coast.

Cromer (52°56'N., 1°18'E.) stands on the edge of a cliff, 4 miles ESE of Sheringham. A light is shown from a conspicuous tower, 18m high, standing close SE of the town. The light is equipped with a racon and AIS. In addition, a searchlight, which exhibits a narrow beam for 10 minutes every hour to illuminate the cloudbase, is situated near the light tower.  A church, with its embattled tower, stands 0.7 mile NW of the light. Two prominent radio masts stand 1.2 miles SE of the light.  Foulness, a shoal with depths of less than 5.5m, extends up to 1 mile offshore in the vicinity of Cromer and is marked by a lighted buoy. This shoal flat is very uneven and can cause a high sea during gales.

Caution...Submarine cables extend seaward from the shore in the vicinity of Weybourne and may best be seen on the chart.

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Cromer to Great Yarmouth

The Would (52°52'N., 1°40'E.), a channel, leads 18 miles SE from abreast Cromer to a position NE of Winterton Ness. It leads into Haisborough Gat and Cockle Gatway , the former being the only channel suitable for vessels of deep draft at all times.

North Haisboro Lighted Buoy (53°00'N., 1°32'E.), equipped with a racon, is moored close NW of the N end of Haisborough Sand and marks the N entrance to The Would. The E limit of the channel is marked by lighted buoys moored at the W side and the S end of Haisborough Sand. There is a least depth of 16m in the channel, at its N end. The coast between Cromer and Happisburgh, 10 miles SE, consists of cliffs, which are subject to extensive landslips, and is fronted by a submarine forest. To the S of Happisburgh, the coast changes to sand hills.

Mundesley (52°53'N., 1°26'E.) is situated 5 miles SE of Cromer. A prominent water tower stands in the NW part of this village.  A conspicuous white radar dome, 68m high, is situated at Trimingham, 1.2 miles NW of Mundesley.

Bacton (52°51'N., 1°29'E.) is situated 2.4 miles SE of Mundesley. A prominent church stands in the village. Two conconspicuous radio masts and the conspicuous buildings of the gas terminal stand on the coast, close NW of the church. The gas terminal buildings are brightly illuminated at night.

Caution...Several submarine gas pipelines extend seaward from the shore adjacent to the gas terminal buildings at Bacton and cross The Would, passing to the NW and SE of Haisborough Sand.  Numerous wrecks, some dangerous, lie within The Would and off Cromer and may best be seen on the chart.

Happisburgh (52°49'N., 1°32'E.) is situated on a rounded hillock close to the coast, 2.4 miles SE of Bacton. A conspicuous church, with an embattled tower, stands on the NW side of the village. A prominent water tower stands 0.7 mile SW of the village. A light is shown from a prominent tower, 26m high, standing close SE of the church. Between Happisburgh and Winterton Ness, 7.5 miles SE, several churches stand along the coast and can be seen from seaward.

Haisborough Sand (52°57'N., 1°40'E.), marked by lighted buoys, lies parallel with the coast and about 8 miles offshore. It has least depths of awash to 0.3m and is steep-to, especially on its NE side. The position of this shoal is indicated, except at slack water, by tidal eddies and even a moderate sea or slight swell breaks over its shallowest part. Haisborough Tail, with a least depth of 4.2m, lies parallel with and about 2.5 miles E of the S part of Haisborough Sand.

Haisborough Gat (52°49'N., 1°56'E.), with depths of 18 to 40m, is the passage which continues SE of The Would. This channel lies with Haisborough Sand, Haisborough Tail, and Hammond Knoll on its N side; Winterton Ridge and Hearty Knoll on its E side; and Newarp Banks and Winterton Shoal on its SW side.

Newarp Lighted Buoy (52°48'N., 1°56'E.), equipped with a racon, is moored about 5 miles SE of the SE end of Haisborough Sand and marks the channel through Haisborough Gat.  Generally, vessels proceeding S pass SW of Newarp Lighted Buoy and those proceeding N pass NE of it.

Hammond Knoll (52°52'N., 1°55'E.), with a least depth of 1.6m, lies about 2 miles E of Haisborough Tail and is marked by a lighted buoy on its E side and at its S end.

Winterton Ridge (52°50'N., 2°01'E.), marked by a lighted buoy at the S end, lies with its N end located about 2 miles E of Hammond Knoll. It has a least depth of 5.6m; however, less water than charted was reported to lie over this shoal ridge. Hearty Knoll lies with its N end located about 1.5 miles NE of the S end of Winterton Ridge. It extends SSE for about 6 miles and has a least depth of 9.8m.  The area lying between Winterton Ridge and Smiths Knoll to the E is known as Middle Ground.

Winterton Ness (52°44'N., 1°41'E.) is situated 7.5 miles SE of Happisburgh. The village of Winterton stands behind the sand hills, 1.2 miles S of Winterton Ness. A church, with a conspicuous high tower, stands in the village and a prominent disused light tower, 21m high and surmounting a building, is situated on an eminence, 0.3 mile SE of it. A racon is situated at the church tower.  It is reported (2003) that a number of prominent wind generators, 60m high, stand in an area centered about 0.5 mile WSW of the church at Winterton.

Caution...Several submarine cables, some disused, extend seaward from the shore in the vicinity of Winterton Ness and may best be seen on the chart.

Caister Point (52°39'N., 1°43'E.) is located 5.7 miles SSE of Winterton Ness. A very conspicuous water tower, with a prominent radio mast located close N of it, stands 1 mile NNW of the point.

Newarp Banks (52°46'N., 1°54'E.), two detached shoals over which the sea breaks in stormy weather, lies about 8 miles ENE of Winterton Ness. The W shoal has a least depth of 9.4m and the E shoal a least depth of 7.6m. Depths of less than 11m also extend up to about 2 miles SSE from the E shoal.  Winterton Shoal, with a least depth of 10.7m, lies about 5 miles NE of Winterton Ness. Eddies form over this shoal in any strength of tidal current.

Scroby Shoals (52°39'N., 1°47'E.), consisting of North, Middle, and South Scroby, lie parallel to the coast and may best be seen on the chart. They extend N for about 7 miles from a position located 2 miles NE of the entrance to Great Yarmouth Haven. Tide rips occur in the vicinity of these shoals. The shoals dry in places and are continuously changing and must not be approached without local knowledge.

Scroby Wind Monitoring Mast (52°40.2'N., 1°47.2'E.) stands on North Scroby Shoal, about 2.2 miles NE of Caister Point. It is 50m high, lighted, and conspicuous.

Scroby Sands Wind Farm is situated on the shoal, about 2 miles E of Caister Point. It consists of 30 wind generators, each 61m high. Submarine cables extend between the SW corner of the wind farm and the mainland.

Corton Shoal (52°35'N., 1°48'E.), which dries in places, lies centered about 2.2 miles E of the entrance to Great Yarmouth Haven, near the S end of Scroby Shoals.

Cross Sand (52°40'N., 1°52'E.), an extensive sandy bank, lies about 5 miles offshore and is constantly changing. It consists of three shallow areas, North Cross, Middle Cross, and South Cross, which may best be seen on the chart. This bank extends in a SSW direction for about 12 miles between the S end of Newarp Banks and the SE end of Corton Bank. It forms the outermost off-lying danger in this area.

Cross Sand Lighted Buoy (52°37'N., 1°59'E.), equipped with a racon, is moored to the E of the off-lying shoals, about 9.3 miles ENE of Great Yarmouth Haven and about 11.5 miles Caister water tower SSE of Newarp Lighted Buoy.

Directions...Vessels proceeding through The Would and Haisborough Gat may then steer SE and then S, staying to seaward of the coastal shoals, into the S part of the North Sea. Alternatively, vessels leaving Haisborough Gat may steer SSW to a position E of Holm Channel , the principal approach fairway leading to Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft.

Great Yarmouth (52°37'N., 1°44'E.)

Full small craft approach and entry directions are provided in the following coverage:

Great Yarmouth (River Yare)

Great Yarmouth stands on a low narrow strip of land between the E bank of the River Yare and the sea. Gorleston, a suburb, is situated on the W bank of the river. Great Yarmouth Haven, the port, is formed in the lower reaches of the river, between its mouth and the entrance to Breydon Water, 2.5 miles N. This port provides access to over 120 miles of the inland waterway system.  An extensive series of shoals, with approach channels between them, forms the roadstead for the port. These shoals, which front the entire coast from nearly abreast Winterton Ness to Benacre Ness, 20 miles S, consist of numerous sand banks lying from 0.5 to 5 miles offshore. This series of shoals forms a barrier and acts as a breakwater against the heavy seas which, during gales from the E, would otherwise reach the low coast. The depths on this natural barrier vary, but are subject to frequent changes; during some years, the shoals of previous years disappear, while the deeper parts become shallower.

Tides...Currents...Tides rise about 2.4m at springs and 2.1m at neaps.  The tidal currents in the river are affected by the large expanse of Breydon Water, which is tidal. They tend to run inward when the sea level is higher than the water in Breydon Water and outward when the sea level is lower. The ebb current may attain a velocity up to 4  knots, but the flood current does not normally exceed a velocity of 2 knots, except in the vicinity of Haven Bridge, where it can attain a rate of 3 knots.  Both the duration and velocity of the ebb current are increased during and after heavy rain; the flood current is correspondingly reduced. Under these circumstances, the flood current may attain a velocity of 6 knots off Brush Quay, close within the S side of the river entrance.  Off the entrance, the flood current corresponds approximately with the S current and the ebb current with the N current. The S current flows past the N breakwater and forms an eddy close S of it which sets into the harbour. The ebb current flows past the N breakwater and turns N with the N current.  During the flood, great care is necessary when passing the head of South Pier. An eddy sets almost directly from South Pier to North Pier. A vessel may experience this set on the port bow when her stern is still affected by the S tidal current and be deflected towards the North Pier. During the ebb, the tidal current flows out between the piers and, on this account, the N current does not set as squarely across the entrance as the eddy on the flood. Hence, entry during the flood is made more difficult. During both currents, the sharp bend at the river entrance requires caution.

Depths...Limitations...At the river mouth, the entrance to the port is protected by two breakwaters. A fairway channel, which is about 70m wide, leads in a W direction for about 0.3 mile between the breakwaters. It has minimum depths of 4.3m at LWS and 6.1m at HWS. The river then turns sharply N and extends for 2 miles to Haven Bridge. It has a general uniform width of about 80m with a least depth of 4.3m. Haven Bridge has a lifting portion 26.8m wide

Caution..

A new outer harbour is under construction within a prohibited area situated on the N side of the approach to the port entrance. The prohibited area is encumbered by rock structures, buoys, anchors, and moorings. Construction vessels and barges entering and leaving this prohibited area may be encountered in the approaches.  See charts, photos, and harbour coverage.

Aspect...To the N of the harbour entrance, the coast is low and sandy. To the S of the entrance, the coast consists of cliffs, up to 17m high, which are composed of sand, gravel, and red loam. They stretch as far as the village of Corton, 3.5 miles S. Then to Lowestoft, the coast is low and fringed with a sandy beach. A church with a conspicuous tower stands at Corton.
 
The harbour entrance is protected by two breakwaters. A light is shown from a prominent building standing near the head of the S breakwater. The upper half of the building is red brick; the lower half is painted white and illuminated to assist mariners at night and during reduced visibility.  A power station chimney, 42m high, stands 0.7 mile N of the harbour entrance and is conspicuous. Nelson’s Monument, also conspicuous, stands 0.3 mile N of the chimney.  Britannia Pier fronts the shore about 2 miles N of the harbour entrance and is lighted at night. The large pavilion building standing on its inner end is prominent.  A prominent disused brick lighthouse, 21m high, is situated on the W bank of the river where the channel turns N. A directional sector light, indicating the entrance channel, is shown from a lattice tower standing close E of the disused lighthouse.

Cross Sand Lighted Buoy (52°37'N., 1°59'E.), equipped with a racon, is moored to the E of the off-lying shoals, about 9.3 miles ENE of Great Yarmouth Haven.

Directions...From the N, the approach may be made through Cockle Gatway, Barley Picle, and Hemsby Hole. From the E and S, the approach may be made through Holm Channel or Lowestoft North Road and Corton Road. Vessels from the N may also proceed through the main route in Haisborough Gat and then steer accordingly in order to pass through Holm Channel.  Barley Picle, the outermost of the N approach channels, lies between Cross Sand and Scroby Sand. There are depths of over 40m at its N end and less than 10m at the S end. This channel is not buoyed and due to the changing sands should not be used.

Hemsby Hole, which narrows to a width of 0.2 mile at its S end, lies between Cockle Shoal and Caister Shoal, on its E side, and the coast, on its W side. This channel leads into Caister Road and passes over a spur with a least depth of 2.1m. Vessels without local knowledge are recommended not to enter this channel.

Cockle Gatway (52°43'N., 1°45'E.) lies between Winterton Overfalls and Scroby Shoals, on its E side, and Caister Shoal, on its W side. This channel passes over Cockle Shoal and leads into Caister Roads and Yarmouth Roads. The fairway is about 0.4 mile wide and has least depths of 4 to 5m. It is indicated by the lighted buoys which mark the adjacent shoals.  In Cockle Gatway, it is necessary to watch the tidal currents, as although they appear to run through the channel near the NE side of Cockle Shoal, elsewhere they set across the channel. The S current generally sets on to Scroby Sand and the N current sets on to Cockle and Caister Shoals.  The passage through Lowestoft North Road and Corton Road provides a shorter and more sheltered route for coastal vessels, but requires local knowledge.

Holm Channel (52°33'N., 1°48'E.), the main approach channel to Great Yarmouth, lies between the N side of Holm Sand (See Lowestoft.) and the S side of Corton Sand. It extends 3 miles NW from the outer entrance which is marked by Corton Lighted Buoy, moored 5.4 miles SE of Great Yarmouth Haven. The fairway is marked by lighted buoys which are frequently moved to indicate the changing depths and shoals. Depths in the fairway vary between 6.5m and 8m.  After passing through Holm Channel into Gorleston Road, a lighted range indicates the approach fairway through the river entrance.

Hewett Channel, lying between Middle Scroby and Corton Sand, and Corton Channel, located on the S side of Corton Sand, are former entrance channels which are no longer marked by aids.

Vessels, especially those of deep draft, are cautioned that changes in the banks and the passages between them are frequent and no channel should be used unless buoyed, even though the charted depths appear sufficient. Experience has shown that the changes in the unbuoyed channels are more frequent than elsewhere.  Because of the frequent depth changes it is often necessary to place or move buoys prior to the dissemination of a Notice to Mariners.  Numerous wrecks, some of which are marked by buoys, lie in the approaches to the port and may best be seen on the chart.  Numerous vessels in transit to and from the gas fields and production platforms in the North Sea may be encountered within the channels leading to the port, which is a base for such craft.

Cross Sand and Scroby Sand are continually altering, both in shape and position, and should not be approached on their unmarked sides without local knowledge. Temporary shoaling is liable to occur in the vicinity of the harbour entrance during strong E winds, when depths of 0.9m less than those charted may be expected.

 A submarine gas pipeline crosses the river about 0.3 mile above the entrance.  Several submarine power cables cross the river 1.2 miles above the entrance.  A ferry crosses the river 1.3 miles above the entrance.  Due to silting, depths alongside the river berths are subject to frequent change.  Light-draft vessels can enter at any time, but high or low slack water is recommended. Entry should be delayed when there is a heavy sea in the entrance, particularly during strong SE winds and an ebb current.

Lowestoft (52°29'N., 1°45'E.)

Full small craft approach and entry directions are provided in the following coverage:

Lowestoft Harbour

Lowestoft stands on the summit and slopes of a steep bank with many trees on it. The town extends both N and S of the harbour entrance and is prominent from seaward. The port, which is entirely artificial, is divided into Outer harbour and Inner harbour. It is approached through the extensive series of shoal banks which front this entire coast as far S as Benacre Ness. These shoals form a natural breakwater and afford protection to the roadstead and the harbour.

Winds...Weather...At Lowestoft, the sea level is greatly affected by winds. Strong N winds can raise the level by up to 0.9m; strong S winds have the opposite effect. At neaps, the sea level may rise continuously during the period of falling tide and at springs, the normal flood and ebb currents may be nearly canceled.  The sea level is depressed with winds from the ENE, through S, to SW; winds from other directions have the opposite effect. With force 3 to 4 ESE winds, the level can be depressed by up to 0.1m; with force 3 to 4 NW winds, the level can be raised by the same height. It is reported that strong winds and gales can depress or raise the level by up to 1.2m. Similar changes possibly occur at other places on this coast.  The sea level is also affected by seiches of considerable range. During strong N gales, the rising tide may be interrupted, at frequent intervals, by periods of fall; the falling tide may also be interrupted by periods of rise. The tidal currents in the entrance and harbour, under these circumstances, are similarly affected; they may change from flood to ebb and from ebb to flood at frequent intervals, attaining velocities up to 4 knots at the bridge.

Tides...Currents...Tides rise about 2.4m at springs and 2.1m at neaps.  In Newcome Channel, the tidal currents appear to be deflected to the E by the shoals in the vicinity; in Corton Road and Lowestoft North Road, the currents generally set in the direction of the coast.  In the narrow channel lying between the NW side of Lowestoft Bank and the harbour entrance, the currents attain a velocity of 4 knots at springs.  In the entrance of the harbour, the tidal currents are strong and complex.

After HW at Lowestoft, the N current produces a strong N set across the entrance which is met by the ebb current from the harbour. These two currents then run together in a NE direction along the North Pier extension. A vessel entering the harbour under these conditions will have the ebb current on its starboard bow, while the outside N current will be on the port quarter. This will result in the vessel tending to sheer towards the South Pier as the entrance is approached.

When a S current runs outside the harbour during the flood, the resulting current will flow SW along the North Pier extension and into the harbour or across South Pier. Under these conditions, a vessel will tend to be swept onto South Pier as the entrance is approached.

Depths...Limitations...The entrance to the harbour, between North Pier and South Pier, is 46m wide and has depths of 7.1m at HWS and 5.2m at LWS. The Outer harbour consists of Hamilton Dock, Waveney Dock, and Trawl Dock, on the N side, and Yacht Basin, on the S side. The docks on the N side have depths alongside of up to 5.5m at HWS and 3.6m at LWS and are mainly used by fishing vessels and vessels connected with the North Sea oil and gas fields. In addition, oil platform module construction is carried out in Waveney Dock.  The Outer harbour and the Inner harbour are connected by a channel, 22.7m wide, which is spanned by a bascule bridge. This channel is maintained by dredging and has depths of 7.1m at HWS and 5.2m at LWS.

Aspect...Lowestoft Ness, located 0.6 mile N of the harbour entrance, is the easternmost point of England. It is low, rounded, and sandy.  A light is shown from a prominent tower, 16m high, standing 1 mile N of the harbour entrance.  Prominent landmarks to the N of the entrance include the tower of the church at Corton, 2.1 miles NNW of the light, and the narrow spire of the church standing 0.5 mile W of the light. Conspicuous landmarks include a large apartment building standing 0.4 mile S of the light and a silo, 49m high, standing on the N side of the Inner harbour. A conspicuous wind generator, 80m high, stands on the seafront, 0.5 mile NNE of the harbour entrance.

Conspicuous landmarks to the S of the entrance include the southmost of two water towers standing 1.7 miles SSW of the harbour entrance; the tower of the church at Kessingland, 2 miles S of the water tower; and Claremont Pier, now partly derelict, located 0.5 mile SSW of the harbour entrance.

Signals...The harbour control light, a white quick flashing light, is shown below the light at the head of South Pier. When the light is flashing, vessels may proceed to sea but shall not enter. At all other times, vessels may enter the harbour but shall not proceed to sea.

Vessels shall not approach to within 137m of the bascule bridge, at the entrance to the Inner harbour, until a green light is shown on the N wall of the entrance. When this light is shown, vessels may enter or leave the Inner harbour.

Directions...Holm Sand lies with its N end located about 3.5 miles SE of the entrance to Great Yarmouth Haven. This shoal forms the S side of Holm Channel and extends about 3 miles S to join the E arm of Newcome Sand. Part of Holm Sand dries and the sea breaks over it in all but the calmest weather.  Newcome Sand is a Y-shaped shallow shoal. From a position 3 miles SSE of the entrance to Lowestoft, its W arm extends N to a position about 0.7 mile E of the entrance; the thinner E arm extends NNE to a position about 1.8 miles ENE of the entrance and joins the S end of Holm Sand. The Ridge, with a least depth of 4.2m, extends ESE for about 0.3 mile from a point on the coast, 0.5 mile NNE of the harbour entrance. Lowestoft Bank, with a least depth of 1m, extends S from The Ridge and joins the W arm of Newcome Sand. The inner edge of this bank connects with the coastal bank, about 1 mile SSW of the harbour entrance. Barnard, an irregular-shaped shoal with a least depth of 2.1m, extends up to 1.3 miles offshore in the vicinity of Benacre Ness, 4 miles S of the harbour entrance.

From the N, the port can be approached either through Holm Channel or Yarmouth Road, then through Corton and Lowestoft North Roads. This approach is marked by lighted buoys.

From the S, a buoyed channel, which is entered between Barnard Shoal and the S end of Newcome Sand, leads to Pakefield Road, 1.5 miles S of the harbour entrance. From Pakefield Road, an approach channel leads W of Lowstoft Bank and through Lowestoft South Road to the entrance. This approach necessitates a tight turn into the harbour entrance; therefore, large vessels are recommended to pass the harbour entrance, turn in Lowstoft North Roads, and make their entry from the N.  Vessels can also approach the port from the E by using Stanford Channel. This channel, which leads between Holm Sand and Newcome Sand, is marked by lighted buoys. It is entered about 1.7 miles SE of the harbour and leads 1.5 miles NNW to join the route from the N in the vicinity of the S part of Lowestoft North Roads.

Vessels are advised to enter the harbour on the flood and leave on the ebb tide. When approaching from N or S, vessels are advised to proceed as slowly as possible until about 100m off the entrance when speed should be increased for entry into the harbour.

Caution...Due to the continually changing nature of the shoals and channels in the approaches to the port, local knowledge is essential and pilotage is recommended for all vessels.  A spoil ground area is centered about 1 mile E of the harbour entrance and may best be seen on the chart.  A measured distance, marked by beacons, is situated on the W side of Lowestoft North Roads and may best be seen on the chart. An outfall pipeline, which may best be seen on the chart, extends about 0.6 mile seaward from Lowestoft Ness. A submarine cable, which may best be seen on the chart, extends E from the shore, about 0.7 mile N of the harbour entrance, in the vicinity of Lowestoft Ness.  Numerous wrecks and obstructions lie within the approaches to the port and may best be seen on the chart.  Numerous groynes, some marked by beacons, extend from the shores in the vicinity of the port and are a danger to small craft navigating inshore.

Numerous vessels in transit to and from the gas fields and production platforms in the North Sea may be encountered within the channels leading to the port, which is a base for such craft.  A submarine power cable crosses the harbour channel close E of the bascule bridge.  It has been reported that when the bascule bridge is opened
on demand from the pilot, it is only opened when the vessel is quite close to the bridge.  Due to silting, depths within the harbour may be less than charted at times.  It is reported (2005) that depths up to 1m less than charted exist within the harbour, outside the dredged areas.

Lowestoft to Orford Ness

Benacre Ness (52°24'N., 1°44'E.), a low and indefinite point, is located 5 miles S of Lowestoft. There are no conspicuous objects in this vicinity, except for a thick, compact grove of trees standing close to the coast, SW of the point. To the N of this point the offshore shoals merge with the coastal bank. A prominent church and two conspicuous water towers stand at Pakefield, about 3 miles N of the point. A conspicuous church tower is situated at Kessingland, about 1.2 miles N of the point.

The coast to the S of Benacre Ness consists of low cliffs fringed by beaches. In places within 2 miles of the point, the coast is eroding and after HWS or storms, debris such as tree trunks may be encountered offshore. A prominent church stands at Covehithe, about 1.5 miles SSW of the point.

Southwold (52°20'N., 1°41'E.), a small resort town, stands on a hill of moderate elevation, 4.6 miles SSW of Benacre Ness. A church standing on the NW side of the town and a water tower standing close W of it are conspicuous. A light is shown from a prominent tower, 31m high, standing in the middle of the town.

Full small craft approach and entry directions are provided in the following coverage:

Southwold Harbour

The harbour, located 0.5 mile S of the town, lies in the lower reaches of the River Blyth and is used by small fishing boats and pleasure craft. There are depths up to 2.1m in the entrance, 1.1 to 1.3m over the bar, and 1.7 to 2.8m alongside the berths. Most craft berth alongside pontoons moored upstream. Vessels should keep to the N side of the river as shoal water extends N from the S pier. The depths and extent of the sand over the bar change frequently. Pilotage is unavailable, but instructions for entering the harbour are given by VHF on request.

Caution...Several submarine cables, some disused, extend seaward from the coast between Lowestoft and the vicinity of Benacre Ness and may best be seen on the chart.

Dunwich Cliffs (52°16'N., 1°38'E.), 17m high, are located 4 miles SSW of Southwold Light. They rise abruptly and are a prominent light color. A conspicuous church stands in the town of Walberswick, 0.7 mile W of the entrance to Southwold.

Thorpe Ness (52°11'N., 1°37'E.), a rounded point with an elevation of 12m, is located 4.7 mile S of Dunwich Cliff. Several white cottages, prominent in the morning light, stand on the cliffs in the vicinity of Minsmere Sluice, 4 miles N of Thorpe Ness.  The village of Thorpeness stands on the coast, 0.5 mile SSW of Thorpe Ness. A conspicuous water tower stands in the village. Another water tower, which has the appearance of a dovecot, stands near a windmill, about 0.2 mile WNW of the village. A prominent radio mast, 91m high, stands 1 mile W the village and a prominent television mast stands 1.8 miles inland.

Sizewell Nuclear Power Station (52°13'N., 1°37'E.) is located near the village of the same name, 1.4 miles N of Thorpe Ness. The power station consists of conspicuous large building, 71m high, with another building surmounted by a white dome, 75m high, standing close N of it.  Aldeburgh (52°09'N., 1°36'E.), a small resort town, stands behind a low shingle beach, 2.2 miles SSW of Thorpe Ness. A church, with a conspicuous tower, stands in the town, but the water tower situated close SW of it is usually hidden by trees. The Benjamin Britten Monument stands on the beach about 0.3 mile N of the church and consists of a prominent steel scalloped shell, 4m high.  A low shingle beach extends S between the town and Orford Ness. The River Alde approaches close to the sea at a position about 0.8 mile S of the town and a conspicuous martello tower stands in this vicinity

Orford Ness (52°05'N., 1°35'E.), located 4.4 miles SSW of Aldeburgh,

Caution...Careful attention must be paid to the tidal currents in the vicinity of Orford Ness.  Off-lying dangers...Dunwich Bank and Sizewell Bank, with least depths of 3.3m, lie parallel with the coast 1 to 1.5 miles offshore, adjacent to Dunwich Cliffs and Sizewell. Aldeburgh Napes, with a least depth of 10.1m, is a detached shoal which lies about 4 miles E of Aldeburgh.  Aldeburgh Ridge, with a least depth of 1.3m, lies about 0.7 mile off the coast, 1.5 miles NE of Orford Ness; the S and shallowest part of this shoal is named Onion.

Caution...Submarine pipelines extend up to 0.4 mile seaward from the shore in the vicinity of the nuclear power station at Sizewell.  Several submarine cables, some disused, extend seaward from the coast in the vicinity of Aldeburgh and may best be seen on the chart.  An oufall pipeline, which may best be seen on the chart, extends about 0.8 mile SE from the S part of Aldeburg and is marked by a buoy.  It is reported that transfer of liquid cargo between tankers takes place, occasionally, in a position about 11 miles ESE of Southwold. Vessels engaged in this task may be at anchor or otherwise unable to maneuver.  A disused explosives dumping ground area, the limits of which are shown on the chart, lies centered about 12 miles E of Orford Ness.  Numerous wrecks, some dangerous, lie off this stretch of coast and may be best seen on the chart.

Numerous lobster pots are laid, in the summer, off the coastal banks on this area.

Orford Ness to Harwich

Orford Ness (52°05'N., 1°35'E.), the N entrance point of the Thames Estuary, is low and rounded. A light is shown from a conspicuous tower, 30m high, standing on the point. The light is equipped with a racon and AIS.

The prominent tower of a church stands at Hollesley, 1.3 miles WNW of the entrance; a conspicuous martello tower stands close S of the village of Shingle Street.

Bawdsey Cliff (52°00'N., 1°25'E.), centered 2.5 miles SW of Orford Haven, is 12 to 15m high, reddish in color, and about 1 mile long. A very conspicuous lattice radio tower, 113m high, stands at the SW end of the cliff. A prominent martello tower stands close NE of the N end of the cliff.

Woodbridge Haven (51°59'N., 1°24'E.), formed by the outlet of the River Deben, is located close SW of the S end of Bawdsey Cliff. The river flows into the sea through shifting banks of shingle and is navigable as far as Woodbridge, 8.5 miles above its entrance. The town stands on the W bank of the river, but is not visible from seaward.
Two prominent martello towers stand on the W side of the entrance. A ferry crosses the river close inside the mouth. The haven is only used by yachts, but vessels, with drafts up to 3.5m at springs and 2.7m at neaps, can reach the town.

Full small craft approach and entry directions are provided in the following coverage:

Ore and Alde, Rivers

An approach buoy is moored 0.4 mile SE of the entrance bar. As the entrance channel over the bar constantly varies in depth and position, the buoys and range beacons, which mark the fairway, are moved as necessary. Local knowledge is required; the harbourmaster at the ferry terminal can be contacted on VHF and will act as a pilot.

Landguard Point (51°56'N., 1°19'E.), the E entrance point of Harwich harbour, is located 3.8 miles SW of the entrance to Woodbridge Haven. Approaches to Harwich Rough Channel (51°56'N., 1°25'E.) is centered about 4.5 miles E of Landguard Point. Bawdsey Bank, Cutler, Felixstowe Ledge, Cork Knolls, Wadgate Ledge, Platters, and Andrews Spit lie on its N side; Rough Shoals, Cork Ledge, Cork Sand, and Ridge lie on its S side. The dredged entrance fairways leading to the port lie within this channel.

Threshold (51°54'N., 1°32'E.), a detached shoal ridge of broken ground, has a least depth of 6.8m. It lies 8 miles ESE of Landguard Point and about 1.5 miles WNW of the S end of Shipwash. Several other patches, with depths of less than 11m, lie within 0.5 mile of the N end of this ridge.

A wreck, with a swept depth of 9.6m, lies off the E side of this shoal ridge. A wreck, with a swept depth of 3.5m, lies about 0.3 mile SE of the SE end of this ridge and is marked by lighted buoys moored E and W of it.

Rough Shoals (51°54'N., 1°28'E.), with general depths of less than 11m and a least depth of 4m, lie from 4.5 to 7.5 miles ESE of Landguard Point. They are scattered over an irregular area, about 3 miles in extent; the SW limit of these shoals is known as the Southwest Tail of Rough. Upper Rough and Lower Rough, near the middle of the area, both have depths of less than 5.5m.

Roughs Tower (51°54'N., 1°29'E.), a conspicuous twin concrete structure, 20m high, stands about 6.5 miles ESE of Landguard Point and is marked by lighted buoys moored close SE and NW of it. It is reported (2002) that a light is shown from Roughs Tower. However, this light is not intended to be a navigational aid and must not be relied upon.

The NE part of Rough Shoals is marked by a lighted buoy moored 2.5 miles NE of the tower.

For historical information, it should be noted that Roughs Tower was constructed as an offshore fortress during WWII. A British subject occupied the abandoned structure in 1967 and declared it to be the Principality of Sealand, an independent micronation. This unofficial principality has not been recognized by any government and its legal status is still in debate.

Cork Knolls (51°56'N., 1°26'E), with a least depth of 6.4m, lie about 4 miles E of Landguard Point.

Cork Sand (51°54'N., 1°24'E.), marked by a lighted beacon, is located with its N extremity lying about 4 miles ESE of Landguard Point. It extends SSW for about 4 miles and has patches which dry up to 1.3m. Cork Ledge, a rocky patch, lies 1 mile W of the N extremity of Cork Sand and has a least depth of 4.3m.

Cork Hole (51°54'N., 1°25'E.), lying between Cork Sand and Rough Shoals, has depths of 11 to 19m.

Caution...Experimental lighted buoys, which have no navigational significance, may sometimes be moored at the S end of Cork Hole.

Felixstowe Ledge (51°57'N., 1°23'E.), with depths of less than 5m, extends about 1.3 miles SE from a point on the coast, 2.5 miles NE of Landguard Point.

Wadgate Ledge (51°56'N., 1°22'E.), a patch of uneven ground formed by sand and stones, is located about 1.6 miles ENE of Landguard Point. A wreck, with a swept depth of 0.5m, lies on this shallow ledge.

Platters (51°56'N., 1°21'E.) is a tongue, with a least depth of 1.6m, which extends about 1.5 miles E from Languard Point. Andrews Spit, part of the same shoal, extends 0.5 mile E and ESE of Landguard Point and is marked by a beacon.

Shipway (51°58'N., 1°35'E.), a main approach channel from the N, lies between Shipwash and Bawdsey Bank and is marked by lighted buoys. It is 10 miles long, from 1.5 to 2.5 miles wide, and has depths of 11.2 to 21m. Detached sand wave patches, which extend from the N end of Bawdsey Bank, lie in the N part of the entrance.  The tidal currents follow the direction of this channel and at springs set SW up to 1.8 knots and NE up to 2.2 knots.

Bawdsey Bank (52°00'N., 1°33'E.) extends about 6.5 miles SW from a position 3.2 miles SSE of Orford Ness. Its N end is known as Bawd Head. A ridge, near the middle of the bank, has a least depth of 1.4m and the sea breaks heavily over it during E swells and gales. The S part of this bank has detached patches with depths of 4.3 to 5.5m. Kettle Bottom, with a least depth of 6.8m, is a narrow tongue which extends about 2 miles N from the SW end of Bawdsey Bank.

Sledway (52°00'N., 1°30'E.) lies between Bawdsey Bank and Kettle Bottom, on its E side, and Whiting Bank and Cutler, on its W side. This channel is about 1.5 miles wide and has depths of 6.1 to 17m. The tidal currents follow the direction of this channel, and at springs set SW up to 1.7 knots and NE up to 2 knots.

Whiting Bank (52°03'N., 1°33'E.) extends about 4.5 miles SSW from a position 1.3 miles SSW of Orford Ness and is marked by lighted buoys. A least depth of 0.7m lies on a narrow ridge near the center of this shoal bank. Flagstone is the name given to the area lying close W of the S part of this bank. There are overfalls, during the ebb currents, in an area lying between the N end of this bank and Orford Ness.

Cutler (51°59'N., 1°27'E.), with a least depth of 1.5m, is a rocky shoal which lies about 2.3 miles E of the entrance to Woodbridge Haven and is marked by a buoy.

Hollesley Bay Channel (52°02'N., 1°30'E.) leads between Whiting Bank and the coast, from abreast Orford Ness to Orford Haven. It is 5 miles long, about 1 mile wide, and has depths of 6 to 12m. Tidal currents in this channel attain rates, in each direction, of up to 2 knots at springs.

Medusa Channel (51°53'N., 1°19'E.), with a least depth of 2.4m, is only used by small craft approaching from the S. Stone Banks and Ridge are located 3 miles S and 1 mile SSE, respectively, of Languard Point and lie on the E side of the channel. Halliday Rock Flats and Sunken Pye, located 1.4 miles SW of Landguard Point, lie on its W side. The channel passes over Naze Ledge, which is marked by a buoy, and should only be used by craft with local knowledge.

Directions...The principal approach to Harwich is via the Harwich Deep Water Channel, which is entered close W of South Shipwash Lighted Buoy (two buoys) (51°52.7'N., 1°34.2'E.). This deep-water channel extends 4.5 miles N, NNW, and NW to a position close S of Harwich Approach (HA) Lighted Buoy (51°56.7'N., 1°30.7'E.).  It then leads 7.5 miles W to a position S of Landguard Point. A harbour entrance channel rounds the point and leads N from the inner end of the deep-water channel toward the berths.

Yachts and pleasure craft are recommended to use a route, which is indicated on the chart, lying close S of the outbound traffic lane. They are advised, in the interest of safety, to avoid the deep-water channel and the traffic lanes, (see harbour coverage.)

Entry into the Harwich Deep-Water Channel is restricted from the E between South Shipwash Lighted Buoy (51° 52.7'N., 1°34.2'E.) and Walker Lighted Buoy, moored about 1 mile N. It is restricted from the S between Cross Lighted Buoy (51°56.2'N., 1°30.6'E.) and Harwich Channel No. 2 Lighted Buoy, moored about 2 miles W.

Caution...Precautionary Areas and associated TSSs, which may best be seen on the chart, have been established in the vicinity of Sunk Centre Light Vessel in order to minimize the risk of collision.

Harwich (Felixstowe) (51°57'N., 1°17'E.)

Full small craft approach and entry directions are provided in the following coverage:

Harwich (Haven Port)

Harwich, stands on the N part of a peninsula which is formed between the coast and the SW side of the entrance to the River Stour. The city and Parkeston, a suburb, extend W from this peninsula along the S side of the river. The town of Felixstowe extends along the NE side of the entrance and the River Orwell flows into the N side of the harbour.

Harwich Harbour is the only landlocked harbour between the River Humber and the River Thames which affords complete shelter from all winds. In addition to The Port of Felixstowe, situated on its NE side, the harbour provides access to Mistley and Manningtree, on the River Stour, and Ipswich, on the River Orwell.

Tides...Currents

Tides rise about 4m at springs and 3.4m at neaps. Within the harbour, the tidal currents generally run in near the direction of the fairway channel. The currents to and from the River Stour and the River Orwell separate or meet NE of Harwich. In mid -channel between Harwich and Shotley Point, the flood current attains a velocity of 1 knot at springs and the ebb current a velocity of 2.2 knots. In the fairway W of Felixstowe Dock, the ebb current sets SSE with a velocity of 1.2 knots at springs; the flood current sets NNW with a velocity of 1 knot.

Within the harbour, the height of tide may be affected by meteorological conditions. Winds between the SE and SW, or a high barometer, cause a decrease in height and winds between NW and NE, or a low barometer, cause an increase. The increase or decrease may, under exceptional conditions, be up to 0.6 to 0.9m above or below the predicted height.

Caution
Precautionary Areas and associated TSSs, which may best be seen on the chart, are situated in the vicinity of Sunk Centre Light Vessel (51°50'N., 1°46'E.).
Numerous unlit mooring buoys are situated close to the fairway in the rivers.
The harbour is accessible under all weather conditions, but deep-draft vessels may be restricted as to the time of entry by tidal considerations.

High speed craft operate in the approaches to Harwich.

The River Stour provides access to Mistley and Manningtree, which are situated about 8 miles above Harwich. The depths in the river decrease rapidly to the W of Parkeston. Small vessels, with drafts up to 2m, can reach Manningtee at HW.

Full small craft approach and entry directions are provided in the following coverage:

Stour, River

Mistley (51°56.7'N., 1°04.8'E.) is located on the S bank of the river and provides five berths. Baltic Wharf, the main berth,river are available. At Cattawade, 0.5 mile above  Manningtree, the river is closed by a barrage.

Ipswich (52°03'N., 1°10'E.)

Ipswich stands on the banks of the River Orwell, about 7.5 miles above its entrance, which is located E of Shotley Point. The harbour consists of a wet dock and several riverside quays.

Tides...Currents...Tides rise about 4.2m at springs and 3.4m at neaps.
Close within the entrance to the river, the tidal currents set NNW and SSE with spring velocities of up to 1.5 knots

Full small craft approach and entry directions are provided in the following coverage:

Orwell, River, Felixstowe to Ipswich

Harwich to Shoebury Ness

The Naze (51°52'N., 1°17'E.), located 4 miles SSW of Landguard Point, is a cliff similar to Bawdsey Cliff. A conspicuous brick tower, 49m high, stands on a summit, close within the edge of the cliff.

Hamford Water, a narrow creek, is entered between Blackman’s Head and The Naze.
It is approached by crossing Halliday Rock Flats, which have a least depth of 1.2m. The depths increase within the entrance of the creek, but the entire area within 4 miles W of The Naze is broken up by islands, mud flats, and creeks, which dry.

Full small craft approach and entry directions are provided in the following coverage:

Walton Backwaters

The NW shore of the Thames Estuary between The Naze and Shoebury Ness, 28 miles SW, is broken by the entrances to the  River Colne, the River Blackwater, the River Crouch, and by several small creeks which are located S of the River Crouch.
The shore in the N part consists mainly of cliffs, up to 10m high, with many buildings standing on them. It is backed by higher land. The shore in the S part is low and fringed by extensive mud flats and sands.

A pier extends SE for 0.4 mile from the coast at Walton-onthe-Naze, a small resort town, situated 1.3 miles SSW of The Naze.

Frinton-on-Sea (51°50'N., 1°15'E.), a resort town, stands 2.7 miles SW of The Naze, at the SW end of a row of cliffs. The turret of a hotel, standing at the W end of the town, is conspicuous. The southwesternmost of two tall buildings, which stand 0.2 mile apart in front of the town, is prominent.

Holland-on-Sea, a small resort, is situated 2.5 miles SW of Frinton. A prominent radar mast, 60m high, stands at Holland Haven, at the NE end of the resort.
A prominent church, with a square tower, stands on the highest part of the background, 1.2 miles N of the haven, and can be seen through the trees from seaward.

Clacton-on-Sea (51°47'N., 1°09'E.), a resort town, is situated along the shore, 4 miles SW of Frinton. The coast in this vicinity is protected by groins, the seaward ends of some being marked by beacons. Several martello towers stand on the low coast between Clacton and Colne Point, 4 miles W. The town is fronted by a pier, 0.2 mile long, which small craft may berth alongside.

Caution...An area, in which obstructions lie, is located about 1 mile SSE of the pier at Clacton and may be best seen on the chart.

Several outfall pipelines, which extend up to about 0.4 mile seaward, are located along this stretch of coast and may best be seen on the chart.

The Wallet (51°46'N., 1°13'E.) is a coastal channel leading from The Naze to Colne Point. The shoals fringing the coast lie on its NW side and Gunfleet Sand lies on its SE side. The latter shoal was previously described with East Swin or King’s Channel. This channel, which is marked by lighted buoys, forms the approach to the River Colne and the River Blackwater, which discharge into its W end. Swire Hole is a pocket lying at the W end of The Wallet. Goldmer Gat, the N and main entrance into The Wallet is located 5.5 miles WSW of Sunk Light Vessel. (51°51'N., 1°35'E.). It lies between the NE extremity of Gunfleet Sand and West Rocks, 2 miles N. The greatest depths are found along the NW edge of Gunfleet Sand.

A wind farm is under construction here, see charts.

The shoals which fringe the coast have depths of less than 5.5m and extend up to 2 miles offshore. Tripod, a shingle patch, lies about 1 mile ESE of Clacton and has a least depth of 2.5m. Collier, a  shoal with a least depth of 1.5m, lies 1.3 miles SSW of Clacton. Priory Spit, with a  least depth of 1.8m, extends up to about 1.5 miles S from a point on the coast, 2 miles WSW of Clacton.

Buxey Sand, a shoal bank which dries, lies centered 5 miles S of Colne Point. Spitway, a channel for small craft, leads between the W end of Gunfleet Sand and the E end of Buxey Sand and has a least depth of 1.2m.

Caution...Numerous wrecks, some dangerous, lie in the vicinity of The Wallet and may best be seen on the chart.

The River Colne and The River Blackwater...The rivers are approached through a common estuary at the SW end of The Wallet. The entrance channels lie between the shoals which extend from both shores and are marked by buoys, beacons, and lighted buoys. The main fairway, with a least  depth of 4.3m, leads between Eagle and Knoll Shoals. The N fairway, with a least depth of 4.1m, leads N of Eagle Shoal and S of Priory Spit and Colne Bar; it should only be used by vessels with local knowledge.

Close W of Eagle Shoal, the entrance channels divide. The fairway leading into the River Colne extends NNE and passes between Colne Bar and Bench Head Shoal.
The fairway leading into the River Blackwater extends WNW and passes between Bench Head Shoal and Saint Peters Flats.

Colne Point (51°46'N., 1°03'E.), located on the E side of the entrance to the River Colne, is low and marshy and marked by two small beacons. Colne Bar, with depths of less than 1.8m, extends up to 1.5 miles S of the point. Eagle Shoal, with a least depth of 0.9m, lies about 2 miles SSE of Colne Point.

Sales Point (51°45'N., 0°56'E.), the S entrance point of the River Blackwater, is located 4 miles WSW of Colne Point and is low. A chapel stands 0.4 mile S of this point and is conspicuous. Several beacons, posts, and remains of targets stand near the shore, close S of Sales Point. Wavebreaks, formed by sunken barges, lie close N and SSE of the point and are marked by lighted beacons.

The conspicuous building of Bradwell Nuclear Power Station, 45m high, stands on the S bank of the River Blackwell, 1.5 miles W of Sales Point.

Saint Peters Flats, which dry up to 3.5m, extend 2.7 miles from the shore, S of Sales Point. Knoll and Batchelor Spit are shoal areas, with depths of less than 1.8m, which extend E from St. Peters Flats.

Mersea Island (51°47'N., 0°57'E.), which forms the N shore between the rivers, is low and wooded. The prominent towers of churches, standing near the E and W ends of the island, can be seen through the trees from seaward.

Bench Head, with depths of less than 1.8m, lies at the extremity of the shoals which extend up to 2.5 miles SE from Mersea Island. Cocum Hills and Mersea Flats front the S shore of the island.

Caution...Oyster beds occupy parts of the fairways within the rivers.

The River Colne (51°46'N., 1°02'E.) flows for 32 miles and enters the sea near Colne Point. Many obstructions exist within this river and the tidal influence is checked and retarded. In its lower part, the banks are broken up by several tributaries. Brightlingsea Creek and Alresford Creek are located on the E side; Pyefleet Channel and Geedon Creek are located on the W side. The fairway has a least depth of 3m as far as Brightlingsea.

Brightlingsea (51°48'N., 1°02'E.), a small port, stands on the N side of Brightlingsea Creek, which enters the river close N of the entrance. A quay, with 234m of total berthage, has a depth of 5.5m alongside at HWS. Vessels up to 3,600 dwt, 100m in length, and 5.2m draft can be accommodated. Vessels with bowthrusters up to 120m in length can be handled. The harbour can be contacted by VHF and is mostly used by coasters, yachts, and fishing vessels.

Full small craft approach and entry directions are provided in the following coverage:

Colne (River) inc. Brightlingsea and Pyefleet Creek

The River Blackwater (51°45'N., 0°55'E.), entered between Sales Point and the S side of Mersea Island, leads about 6 miles WSW to Osea Island, and then 4 miles NW to Maldon. There are depths of 5.5 to 20m in the entrance, but above Shinglehead Point, 2.2 miles NW of Sales Point, they become irregular. Depths of 2.3 to 3.5m lie in the fairway up to 4.5 miles above Shinglehead Point. At Maldon, the channel has a depth of 3.4m at HWS, but nearly dries out at LW. Several yacht marinas are situated along the river. A wharf at Maldon can handle small coasters up to 600 grt.

The banks of the river are broken by the entrances to numerous creeks and fringed by extensive mud flats. A detached breakwater, about 300m long, lies off the entrance to a creek, in the vicinity of the power station which stands 1.5 miles above the entrance to the river.

Full small craft approach and entry directions are provided in the following coverage:

Blackwater (River) inc Tollsebury, Bradwell and Maldon

The River Crouch (51°37'N., 0°56'E.), after flowing between low and embanked lands, empties into the Thames Estuary between Holliwell Point, 6.5 miles S of Sales Point, and Foulness Point, 1.1 miles SSE. The river may be approached through Ray Sand Channel or Whitaker Channel. The former leads from the SW end of The Wallet over a bar, which dries up to 1.7m, and should only be used by vessels of light draft with local knowledge. Whitaker Channel, which is marked by lighted buoys, leads from the W end of East Swin or King’s Channel to the river entrance.

Foulness Sand, which dries, extends up to 5.5 miles ENE from Foulness Point.
Whitaker Spit, with depths less than 1m, extends about 3 miles NE from the NE end of Foulness Sand. This spit connects to another shallow spit, which extends ENE from Buxey Sand and forms a bar between Whitaker Channel and East Swin or King’s Channel. It is reported (2000) that a buoyed channel, with a least depth of 3m, leads over this bar. It is also reported that this channel is no longer dredged.

Several marinas are situated within the river. A timber wharf is situated in the vicinity of Wallasea Island, 3 miles above the river entrance. It is 130m long and can handle small vessels up to 5.2m draft at HW.

Burnham (51°37'N., 0°50'E.), the principal yachting center of the SE part of England, is situated on the N shore, about 5 miles W of the river entrance. There are marinas and extensive facilities for boats and small craft.

Hullbridge is situated on the S side of the river, about 12 miles above Burnham and has a quay, which dries. Small vessels, with drafts up to 3.5m, can reach this quay at HWS.

Full small craft approach and entry directions are provided in the following coverage:

Crouch (River) inc Burnham and Fambridge

Roach (River)

Foulness Point (51°37'N., 0°57'E.), the S entrance point of the River Crouch and the NE extremity of Foulness Island, is low.

A conspicuous lattice radio tower stands 1 mile SW of the point. Another two conspicuous lattice radio towers, 76m high, stand 1.7 miles SW of the point.
The spire of the church at Churchend, 2.5 miles WSW of the point, is prominent from seaward.

Shoebury Ness (51°31'N., 0°47'E.), a low point, is located 8.7 miles SW of Foulness Point. The coast between consists of embanked marshland, broken only by the entrance to Havengore Creek, 3.2 miles NE of the point, which is used by yachts and small craft, to enter the River Roach. A radio mast and a gas-holder tank, both conspicuous, stand close W and 0.7 mile N, respectively, of the point. The church at Great Wakering, 2.3 miles NNE of the point, can sometimes be identified from seaward. The town of Shoebury stands 0.5 mile NE of the point.

Maplin Sands (51°35'N., 0°58'E.), of which Foulness Sands forms the NE part, extends up to about 3 miles from this stretch of coast and form the N limits of East Swin Channel, West Swin Channel, and The Warp.

Caution...Firing danger areas exist on Maplin Sands and Foulness Sands. Experimental firing is frequently carried out in all conditions of weather and tide.

Yachts and small craft proceeding to Havengore Creek must obtain permission from the Range Authorities prior to making the passage.

Obstructions to navigation, posts, and beacons of no navigational significance, some of which show lights, may be encountered throughout Maplin Sands.

Adjacent area coverage is available here:

Thames and Estuary

North East England (St Abbs Head to the Wash)

List of charts and publications covering the East Coast:

SC5607 THAMES ESTUARY - ESSEX COAST From £39.99 SC5607

SC5908 RIVERS & HARBOURS OF THE From £42.99 SC5908

Warning, much of the text on this page has been adapted from material intended mainly for big ship mariners (NGA Sailing Directions). It's suitability for small craft must be left in the hands of the individual skipper. As with everything else on this site, the information is not to be used for navigation purposes, but may be useful in the passage planning stages.

The coverage of individual harbours, including approach and entry, is specifically written for yachts and motorboats.