1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN jointly by the Queen's Harbour Master Portsmouth and the Harbour Master Portsmouth International Port that on Thursday 9 November 2017 a pyrotechnic display will take place from two barges (Uncle Bill and Voe III) located approximately 250 metres west and southwest of the outer pontoon of Gunwharf Quays. It is expected that the firework display will last approximately 16 minutes.
2. Mariners are advised that for safety reasons, the Harbour will be closed during the display from 1915 to 1940 with an exclusion zone of 300 metres established around the position of the barges, the exact position being determined by the weather conditions on the day.
3. The perimeter of the exclusion zone will be patrolled by three launches from Onboard Ribs. These craft will be marked by amber flashing lights in addition to normal navigation lights and marshals wearing high visibility jackets. Their role will be to ensure the exclusion zone is clear of all vessels not directly involved in the fireworks operation. Other harbour users are to obey their directions and leave the exclusion zone when requested to do so. All patrol craft will monitor VHF Channel 11 and 13. Call signs for the craft are ‘Safety Boat 1’, ‘Safety Boat 2’ and ‘Safety Boat 3’.
4. The Gosport Ferry will be allowed to continue operations but is to transit well to the north and clear of the exclusion zone during the Harbour closure period.
5. The barges (Uncle Bill and Voe III) serving as the launch platforms for the firework display, will initially be alongside at Outer Berth Jetty (OBJ) Gunwharf Quays and will be manoeuvred into position at approximately 1845. The barges will return to either the OBJ or Town Camber dependent upon traffic at approximately 1945. QHM will control and authorise any movements of the barges on VHF Channel 11.
6. Mariners are advised to remain clear of this activity and be aware of the impact of pyrotechnics on their night vision and hearing. A broadcast will be made by QHM on VHF Channel 11 advising mariners of the harbour closure and opening times, prior to and on completion of the event.
7. Cancel this Local Notice to Mariners 11 November 2017.
S O Hopper
Queen'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.
