1. NOTICE IS HERBY GIVEN by the King’s Harbour Master Portsmouth that Autonomous Surface Vessel trials will be conducted within No. 2 Basin of HM Naval Base Portsmouth over the period 25 - 28 March 2024.
2. A NavyX APAC Autonomous Surface Vessel (ASV) will be carrying out sea trials during daylight hours only with a safety vessel in attendance. The APAC is an 8 metre, grey coloured RHIB (see Figure 1 below) and will be controlled during the trial from the PATRICK BLACKETT, berthed alongside in 2 Basin at 3BII. PATRICK BLACKETT sea boat (See Figure 2) has been nominated to act as a Safety and Support Boat during the period of the Trials, call sign PATRICK BLACKET SEA BOAT, and will be monitoring VHF Ch 11, and 16.
Figure 1. NavyX APAC
Figure 2. Patrick Blackett Sea Boat
3. Designated trials periods, of no more then three hours in every 24, will take place between 0900 – 1600 daily, deconflicted from other traffic and harbour activity by KHM Harbour Control, and will include the APAC operating in Remote/Autonomous Mode. Trials will be constrained to the confines of 2 Basin (See Figure 3) at speeds of less than 10 knots.
Figure 3. No. 2 Basin HMNB(P) (Chart not to be used for navigation)
4. The APAC is not authorised to exit the Basin in Remote/Autonomous Mode and if required by KHM Harbour Control re-secured alongside PATRICK BLACKETT.
5. All trials vessels will conform to the International Rules for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS) and Portsmouth Harbour Regulations, including speed limits at all times.
6. Cancel this LNTM 28 March 2024.
Wednesday 20 Mar 2024
G W BISHOP
King's Harbour Master
Owners, Agents, Charterers, Marinas, Yacht Clubs and Recreational Sailing Organisations should ensure that the contents of this Notice are made known to the masters or persons in charge of their vessels or craft.
