Towage Guidelines

PORT OF NEATH – TOWAGE GUIDELINES

1.General

Towage within the Port of Neath is controlled by the Harbour Master to ensure safe navigation in the narrow, tidal River Neath channel. These guidelines apply to all vessels requiring tug assistance for berthing, unberthing, or manoeuvring within the ports limits.

2.When Towage May Be Required

Towage may be required for:

• Vessels over 100 m LOA
• Vessels with restricted manoeuvrability
• Vessels with limited propulsion or steering capability
• Vessels berthing at Neath Abbey Wharf in strong cross‑winds or tidal flow

Any vessel at the Harbour Master’s discretion 

3.Tidal & Environmental Constraints

• Movements normally restricted to flood tide with adequate under‑keel clearance.
• Towage may be suspended when:
• Wind exceeds 25 knots
• Visibility < 0.5 nm
• Significant swell at the river entrance
• Strong cross‑set on the upper river

Masters must consider the effect of 1.5 knots flood stream typical in the channel.

4.Tug Types & Suitability

• Only tugs approved by the Harbour Master may operate within the port.
• Tug power and configuration must be appropriate for:
• Vessel size and windage
• Manoeuvre type
• Berth location
• Tidal conditions

Workboats used as tugs must have certified bollard pull and appropriate fendering.

5.Tug Allocation (Guidance Only)

• < 100 m LOA: Normally no tug required unless conditions dictate.
• > 100 m LOA: 1 tug may be required for berthing/unberthing.
• Vessels with mechanical defects: Tug(s) required regardless of size.

Final tug allocation is determined by the Harbour Master.

6.Communications

• All towage operations must be coordinated on VHF Channel 77
• Tug and vessel must agree:
• Plan of approach
• Connection points
• Speed and tidal strategy
• Abort criteria

No movement may commence without Harbour Master clearance.

7.Safety Requirements

• Towlines must be fit for purpose and inspected before use.
• Safe working load (SWL) must not be exceeded.
• Crew must remain clear of snap‑back zones.
• Tugs must maintain safe distance from bridge piers, moorings, and shallow margins.

Abort manoeuvre if control is lost or conditions deteriorate.

8.Master’s Responsibility

The Master remains responsible for the vessel at all times. The tug Master is responsible for the safe operation of the tug. The Harbour Master may amend or suspend towage operations for safety.

9.Non‑Routine Towage Operations

Non‑routine towage includes any towage activity that falls outside normal port operations, presents elevated risk, or involves vessels or equipment not regularly used within the Port of Neath. These operations require prior assessment and formal approval by the Harbour Master.

Non‑routine towage includes, but is not limited to:

• Towage of unpowered or partially disabled vessels
• Towage of barges, pontoons, or floating plant

Any towage operation the Harbour Master considers to present non‑standard risk.

10.Non‑Routine Towage Form (Mandatory Submission)

Before any non‑routine towage operation is approved, the operator must submit a Non‑Routine Towage Form to the Harbour Master no less than 24 hours in advance, unless otherwise agreed.

The form must include:

• Details of the vessel(s) to be towed
• Tug(s) to be used, including certified bollard pull
• Tow configuration and connection points
• Passage plan and tidal window
• Crew qualifications and experience
• Risk assessment and method statement
• Weather and environmental considerations
• Emergency/abort procedures
• Contact details for the tow master and tug master

Approval will only be granted once the Harbour Master is satisfied that:

• Risks are controlled and ALARP
• Tug power and configuration are suitable
• Environmental conditions are acceptable
• Communications and contingency plans are clear
• The operation will not compromise the safety of the port or other users

No non‑routine towage may commence without written approval.