NAVIGATION ON THE RIVER THAMES

Navigation rules for rowing boats on the river Thames are not consistent along its length. The current arrangement on the Tideway allows rowers to "work the slacks" to minimise some of the hazards of rowing on what can be a fast flowing tidal river, with bridges, moorings and sandbanks.

Those of you who are both familiar with the Upper Thames and Tideway, or are new or visiting are urged to familairise yourselves with the current navigation arrangements.

Tideway Code of Practice

The new Code of Practice for Rowing on the Tideway was launched on 6th October 2006. Whilst the basic navigation of the river has not changed, the rules will now be more tightly enforced.

Those boating on the Tideway should not assume that they "know" what the real rules are, as some previously widespread practices and short cuts, will no longer be tolerated.

The PLA, in conjunction with the Thames Regional Rowing Council produced the code in booklet form and a detailed map in A0 size, and delivered one copy of each to each club in the Thames Region. An electronic copy of these can be downloaded below:

The link to the Tideway Code of Practice above is a sizable PDF file, so to aid download on slower internet connections, we have broken it down into more manageable sections which are lined to below

Navigation Links

The River Thames above Teddington Lock (the Non-Tidal Thames)

The Environment Agency is the regulator for the Thames above Teddington Lock.

 

The River Thames below Teddington Lock (the Tidal Thames)

Port of London Authority is responsible for the management of navigational safety on the tidal River Thames between Teddington and the outer port limits.

The River Thames between Putney Pier Crossing and Syon Crossing (the Tideway)

Between Putney Bridge and Syon Crossing, special rules for rowing boats apply.

Tower Bridge to the Thames Barrier (ARA South East (River) Region)