Harbour Master's Directions
for users of Wells Harbour

These directions are generally enforceable under the Wells Harbour Revision Order of 1994 which contains details of penalties for non-compliance.

Navigation

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1. All vessels should comply with Collision Regulations but sailing and small draft vessels do not have automatic right of way due to depth limitations of the channel.
2. Speed Limits must be observed. A speed limit of 8 knots is in force for all navigable water from No. 6 Buoy to the No. 19 Buoy and 5 knots from No.19 Buoy to the East End. However, vessels must always navigate with consideration for other harbour users particularly as regards wash created by your vessel.
3. JetSki (Personal watercraft) and hovercraft type craft are not permitted in the harbour
4. High speed craft (other than members of Wells Waterski Club) intending to operate at more than 15 knots are not allowed to use the harbour except for entry and exit unless specifically authorised by the Harbour Master.
5. Vessels must be kept clear of navigation marks
6. Power vessels over 4.57m (15ft) must carry third party insurance to a minimum specified by the Commissioners.
7. Collisions, strandings, vessels adrift or any obstructions to the channel must be reported to the Harbour Master. Incidents may be enterd in the report book in the Harbour Office.
8. Persons under 16 years of age may not operate powered boats capable of more than 8 knots
9. Vessels proceeding to sea should be properly and safely fitted out and be open to the Harbour Master's inspection.
10. Masters of visiting vessels must complete a Visitors Registration Form and, if from foreign ports, must ensure they obtain Customs clearance and have the correct documentation for any animals.
11. 'Swimmers' not to use pontoons, moored boats at quayside or to climb on navigation marks.

Moorings

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1. No vessel may be launched or brought into the Harbour without the prior consent of the Harbour Master and payment of dues. Permit discs must be displayed.
2. No moorings may be laid or ownership transferred without prior approval of the Harbour Master who must be given notice of intent if a mooring is to be vacated for more than 7 days.
3. Boats must be kept properly moored at all times and rigging muffled on overwintering boats
4. Boats' names should be displayed and moorings marked as directed by the Harbour Master
5. Visiting vessels will be charged at the 'Visitor's Rate' as determined on the current list of charges.
6. Masters are responsible for their vessels during shipping movements and must allow access to the quays to vessels wishing to load or unload cargo or passengers.
7. Vessels with Quay berths may be required to double berth and access must be allowed to the outside vessel. Masters are responsible for properly mooring and fendering their own vessels.

General

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1. No Oil, Bait, Rubbish, Sewage or any other substance may be allowed to enter the Harbour and any accidental discharge must be reported to the Harbour Master immediately. Vessels with direct discharge toilets should seal off exit ports. Persons causing pollution are liable to substantial fines.
2. Public landing and launching places must not be obstructed.
3. Vessels who need information on entry to the port please contact the Harbour Master. Prior notice of entry if possible.

Commercial and Shipping

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1. The Harbour Master must be given at least 8 hours prior notice of the arrival of ships and his clearance obtained before entry or movement within the Harbour.
2. Movements must be under the supervision of the Harbour Master and masters must ensure sufficient crew are available at all times to ensure the safety of the vessel.
3. Ships engines are not to be run except when manoeuvering and there must be no pumping of bilges or other discharge within the harbour.
4. Safe and proper access to ships must be maintained at all times
5. Declaration of draft, tonnage, particulars of cargo and ports of call must be given to the Harbour Master
6. Passenger carrying vessels must be properly licensed.

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Definition
The Harbour is all navigable water inside Nos. 1 and 2 buoys.

The Harbour Master is Mr R G Smith.

Wells Harbour Commissioners
Harbour Office Old Lifeboat House
West Quay
Wells-next-the-Sea
Norfolk
NR23 1AT

Tel (01328) 711646
Fax (01328) 710623

Revised 1 January 2006

Copies of these directions are available at the Harbour Office

By Order R G Smith
Harbour Master

Please see Terms and Conditions for more information about mooring agreements with Wells Harbour Commissioners.