SEVERN BORE – IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR POWER BOAT OPERATORS

 Publicity from media organisations and the Environment Agency has seen a significant rise in the number of people drawn to the Severn when large Bores are predicted. 

Many people line the banks at popular viewing spots to see the spectacle and large numbers of surfers and kayakers come to test their skill at riding the wave.  

However, increasing numbers of powered craft are also joining the ride and the behaviour of a minority of inconsiderate motor boat operators is giving cause for concern because they spoil the spectacle for those on the bank and can endanger surfers.  

These boats ride in or on, or in the immediate vicinity of the Bore wave.  This is an unsafe practice when other vulnerable users, such as a surfer who has fallen from a board, are sharing the same water.  It is not always possible to see people in the water between or ahead of waves. 

The Gloucester Harbour Trustees, as the navigation authority for this part of the Severn, has Byelaws which are designed to protect the safety and well-being of both river users and people on-shore.  These impose a 12 knot speed limit and require vessels to be navigated with care and caution and not cause danger to other vessels and those in the water, nor give grounds for annoyance to spectators on the banks of the river. 

Power boats should stay at least 200m behind the Bore waves and not exceed the 12 knot speed limit.  They should also ensure the safety of people in the water and not cause the break-up of waves near popular viewing spots.Guidance notes written for your safety by fellow surfers and boat users may be viewed and downloaded here