This feature provides a direct route for the Harbour Master to communicate with Harbour Stakeholders. ‘CHANNEL 71’ will address current safety-related concerns, provide navigational advice and highlight local examples of ‘Best Practice’ wherever possible.
‘Listening Watch’!
Mariners must monitor VHF Channel 71 when within harbour limits. This channel is used for Local Port Service broadcasts that inform users of the following:
- Safety Notifications: VHF Channel 71 provides a voice for critical safety information, including weather updates, navigational hazards, and emergency alerts. Keeping a ‘Listening Watch’ will help harbour users remain aware of potential dangers that could affect their journey.
- Communication with Other Vessels: Monitoring VHF Channel 71 allows harbour users to communicate with other boats, facilitating safe navigation specifically in restricted areas of the harbour.
- Port / Harbour Instructions: We use VHF Channel 71 to provide essential operational announcements, such as changes in channel conditions, mooring instructions, or closures due to commercial vessel movements. Maintaining a ‘Listening Watch’ will help harbour users comply with local regulations and ensure safe entry and exit.
- Emergency Assistance: VHF Channel 71 is not designated for distress calls, however within the harbour, mariners can quickly request assistance from ‘Littlehampton Harbour’ should they get into difficulty. If there is an immediate risk to life, VHF Channel 16 should be used or call 999. If you are ever in doubt call!
- Regulatory Compliance: When within the harbour limits (from the sea all the way to the old Queen’s Street road bridge at Arundel), all vessels must maintain a ‘Listening Watch’ on VHF Channel 71 in accordance with the Littlehampton Harbour General Directions. Adhering to these regulations fosters a safer and more organized maritime environment.
Please Note – Failing to comply with a General Direction is an offence, punishable by a fine not exceeding Level 4 on the standard scale (currently £2,500).
A comprehensive list of all harbour regulations can be found on our website www.littlehampton.org.uk.
Thank you for your current and ongoing understanding and cooperation with this set of safety critical guidelines.
Mike Hayes
Harbour Master
24/04/2025
