Sailing in fog

So, what to do and not to do in fog/mist: 

When fog is approaching or going out in fog. (Any further contributions to this check list will be appreciated. Please send it to [email protected])

  1. Check where you are by taking bearings
  2. Plot the ships position
  3. Lay a safe course
  4. Hoist the radar reflector
  5. Put on lifejackets and maybe tow the dinghy (in case you are run down)
  6. Post look-outs to listen and look (turn off engine occasionally)
  7. Try to keep out of shipping lanes by heading for shallow water
  8. Use foghorn every 2 minutes
    • (under sail :     one long two short))
    • (under power : one long)
  9. Use every electronic device you have to maintain good position on chart
  10. DO NOT RELY ON YOUR SENSES, TRUST YOUR INSTRUMENTS!!

 I also got the following information from Cape Town Port Control

  1. Port Control will not stop you from leaving the harbour, because they wil not override a ship’s captain’s decision to sail or not to sail.
  2. They will also assist you if you want to know of any boats’ movement in the harbour area and area which are covered by their radar.
  3. To avoid boats on anchor outside the harbour, you can also ask for the positions of those ships.
  4. Ships on anchor must make a sound when anchored outside the harbour and if not you can call Port Control to report them.
  5. Port Control are more than willing to give advice if you need any.

Pictures of my visit to Port Control on Saturday 30th May 2009

Radar Image Traffic separation scheme Cape Town
Radar Image Traffic separation scheme Saldanha
360 degrees view from Cape Town Port Control offices
Inside Port Control room  
Jolly Roger
Charter Boat   
Old instruments from the steam tugs White and RA Lee

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