1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the Queen’s Harbour Master Portsmouth that the First Patrol Boat Squadron will be conducting combined exercises in the waters of the Dockyard Port of Portsmouth on 24 and 25 April 2019. This will involve thirteen P2000 20 metre patrol boats in close formation.
2. On Wednesday 24 April, all thirteen vessels will depart together, forming up independently from 1330 in one of the two holding areas indicated on the chartlet below, and will then conduct a coordinated departure of Portsmouth Harbour from 1400 to 1430. The vessels will return to harbour from 1630 – 1700. Associated channel closures will be promulgated on QHM Daily Movements.
3. On Thursday 25 April, all thirteen vessels will again depart together, forming up from 1015 and conducting a coordinated departure of Portsmouth Harbour from 1045 to 1115 and will return to harbour in smaller formations from 1230.
4. QHM will coordinate other traffic to ensure these groups of vessels have a clear passage in to and out of harbour. Vessels will be under control of a lead ship and will take action as required to avoid other traffic. Operations will be coordinated with QHM on VHF Channel 11.
5. Weather permitting, on both days, the units will exercise in the area indicated above. In inclement weather, reduced numbers of units may exercise in the eastern Solent.
6. Where possible, mariners are requested to keep clear of the formation. QHM and the Officer in Charge of the formation can be contacted on VHF Channel 11.
7. Cancel this notice to mariners 26 April 2019.
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.
