Stranraer Harbour safety bulletin
There are three safety bulletins in place for Stranraer Harbour.
Commercial Vessel Berthing
An incident occurred where a commercial vessel departing the quay at Stranraer Harbour struck an adjacent vessel, causing significant damage and parted the back spring, nearly injuring a crewmember. It was low water, with no wind.
It was noted that the draft of the vessel was equivalent to the depth of water and this may have influenced the manoeuvrability of the vessel.
It was also noted that the back spring was very short which would have negated most of its effect.
The spring was secured to the vessel and the shore and so could not be let go at the shore end by the crew, who were all on the vessel.
The crew were unable to release the spring from the vessel bollards quickly enough as the vessel went ahead off the berth, causing the spring to part and the crew to be placed at significant risk of injury. Masters must ensure they have sufficient depth water to proceed to sea.
Master must ensure all crew are properly briefed as to the departure plan and they have a good means of communication with the crew during departure.
Storm Warning 24 and 25 January 2025
Strong winds are expected on 24-25 January 2025. You are advised to check your mooring lines and fendering, before lunchtime on Friday 24 January, to ensure your boat is secure.
It is advised to put out additional mooring lines and fenders for this period. Harbours staff can advise where additional lines can be placed outside of normal berthing arrangements.
It is advised not to access the pontoon and quayside areas during periods where the sustained wind is above 45 miles per hour.
Safe use of the area behind the breakwater