Crossing the channel
I was enjoying the magazine when a small alarm bell rang in my mind as I read James Stevens’ A Question of Seamanship (YM, January 2021).
As always, James is spot on with his conclusions, but he implies that the traffic lanes between the Dover Strait Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS) and the Casquets TSS are subject to Colregs Rule 10. Of course, they are not, and it would be folly to assume that vessels of less than 20m and sailing vessels are obliged to keep clear of – shall not impede – power-driven vessels which are following the lanes.
To quote from the article: ‘Roy has safely negotiated the shipping off Cherbourg, and is now in clear water, north of the TSS…’ Also: ‘Roy is correct in thinking that the coaster should keep clear outside of the TSS.’
Both of these indicate that there is a TSS between Cherbourg and the IOW. As we know, there isn’t! I think the Admiralty charts have a note advising vessels to cross the lanes at ‘about’ right angles, which makes good sense but is by no means obligatory.
Incidentally, this same situation arose south of Anvil Point when, many years ago, I was in command of HMS Alderney as we made a night passage up Channel. Having resorted to shining lights on the coaster and calling on VHF Ch16 – no reply! – I ordered a tight turn to starboard, and continued through 360° to pass astern of the coaster – which carried on regardless. Andy Du Port
James Stevens responds: I am sorry about your alarm bells. I wanted to emphasise that the situation occurred outside a TSS. Rule 10 doesn’t come into it, although on reflection, a Question of Seamanship where it does might be a good idea.