WASH CONCERNS

Guernsey Harbour Master has published a report following an investigation into allegations of extreme wash at La Valette Bathing Pools, Havelet Bay.

At 1815 on 8 July 2017, police and medics were called to the bathing pools in St Peter Port due to reports that the high-speed Condor Liberation ferry had caused a swell, which, due to the height of tide washed into the open air pools and knocked swimmers into the walls.

Approximately six people were injured, suffering abrasions to the skin, ingesting seawater, an anxiety attack and the effects of the cold.

The report found that following traffic avoidance with the cruise ship Adonia, the Master of Condor Liberation had altered course to less than 325°T to regain track which is likely to have generated of a wave of approximately 60cm.

However this wave is unlikely to have been of the magnitude reported. The wash effect of Adonia is likely to have reached the pools at around the same time, compounded by both the Trident V approach to St Peter Port and a large motor yacht entering Havelet Bay at speed.

As a result of the incident and investigation, Condor has amended approach procedures, additional warning signage has been put in place and CCTV will be used to monitor the pools during the arrival and departure of high-speed craft.