SAILING THROUGH FOG IN SALCOMBE
Sailing into Thick Fog: A Guide for Novice Yachtsmen and Dinghy Sailors near Salcombe Harbour
Fog can transform the stunning coastline around Salcombe Harbour into a disorienting maze, even for experienced sailors. For novice yachtsmen and dinghy sailors, it’s crucial to know what steps to take to ensure a safe return when GPS navigation isn’t an option. This guide outlines practical measures and details the key marks and light beacons around Salcombe Harbour that can help guide you home.
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
Panic can lead to poor decision-making. If you encounter thick fog, slow down and take stock of your surroundings. Use this time to:
Check your position on a chart or note your last known location.
Listen for sounds such as waves breaking on shore, bells, or foghorns, which can provide clues about your proximity to land.
2. Sound Your Fog Signals
Fog signals are vital for alerting other vessels to your presence. Use your horn or bell to emit the appropriate signals:
Power-driven vessels underway: One prolonged blast every two minutes.
Sailing vessels underway: One prolonged blast followed by two short blasts every two minutes.
3. Monitor Your Compass
If visibility drops to near zero, your compass becomes your best friend. Maintain a steady heading and periodically cross-check it with your chart to ensure you’re on the correct course.
4. Use a Lead Line
In shallow waters, a lead line can help determine your depth and the type of seabed beneath you. This information can be matched with charted details to verify your position.
5. Keep a Sharp Lookout
Post a lookout to watch for navigation marks, other vessels, and hazards. Use binoculars if available, and be vigilant for:
Faint shapes of buoys.
Flashing lights or fixed beacons.
6. Marks and Light Beacons Near Salcombe Harbour
The coastline around Salcombe Harbour is well-marked with navigational aids. Here are the key ones to look for:
The Bar Beacon (Safe Water Mark): Located near the entrance to Salcombe Harbour, this beacon is your primary guide when approaching from the sea. It is a red-and-white vertically striped buoy that flashes a single white light every 10 seconds. Aim to keep this beacon to your port side as you enter the harbour.
Ledges Buoy: A green conical buoy located near Salcombe Bar, marking the shallow ledges. This buoy flashes a green light every 5 seconds. Keep it to starboard as you approach.
Crossways Buoy: A red can buoy marking the eastern side of the channel. It flashes a red light every 4 seconds. Pass this buoy on your port side when heading into the harbour.
Blackstone Point Light: Located on the cliffs to the west of the harbour entrance, this fixed white light is a critical landmark. Use it as a guide to align yourself with the channel.
Mill Bay Buoy: A starboard-hand buoy flashing a green light every 3 seconds. It is located further into the estuary near Mill Bay and guides you safely along the main channel.
7. Listen for the Salcombe Harbour Foghorn
Salcombe Harbour operates a foghorn that can assist you in locating the entrance. The sound is a vital clue if visibility is extremely poor.
8. Anchor if Necessary
If you’re unable to determine your position or feel unsafe continuing, drop anchor in a safe area away from traffic lanes. Use this time to reassess your situation, check your charts, and wait for the fog to clear.
9. Communicate
If equipped with a VHF radio, tune in to Channel 16 to listen for updates or alerts from the Salcombe Harbour Master. You can also call for assistance if you feel unable to proceed safely.
10. Plan Ahead
Before setting out, always:
Familiarize yourself with local navigation marks and their light characteristics.
Carry a paper chart of the area.
Check the weather forecast, including warnings for fog.
Equip your vessel with a horn, compass, lead line, and other essential gear.
Conclusion
Thick fog doesn’t have to spell disaster if you’re prepared and follow these steps. By staying calm, using the navigational aids around Salcombe Harbour, and prioritizing safety, you can confidently sail through low visibility conditions. Remember, preparation and vigilance are your best tools for navigating fog. Safe sailing!