• 250 Sheltered and secure pontoon berths
• 24 hour staffing
• Better than 50% tidal access
• Gasoil (red diesel - not for road use) and unleaded petrol available on the fuel pontoon
• Toilets, showers, laundry and telephones are all available in the Control Building and in temporary facilities in the boatyard.
• Water and electricity (240 volts) is available on all pontoons.
• A full boatyard service is provided. Trained, qualified staff operate our 35T mobile hoist.
• Storage facilities are available in the boatyard.
• Chandlery, boat sales, boat and engine repair and rigging services are provided on site. Two cafés are also available.
• Car parking is available on site.

By Road
Portishead Quays Marina is conveniently located three miles from Junction 19 of the M5.

Rail
Mainline train services are available from Bristol Temple Meads and Bristol Parkway Stations.

Buses
Bus services to Central Bristol are available from Portishead Town Centre. Timetables are available from the Marina Office.

Air Travel
Bristol International Airport offers flights to a wide range of destinations and is 20 minutes away by car.

Tidal Access

Under normal conditions, for a moderate drafted vessel (1.5m.) the lock will give access 3.5 hours either side of High Water. It is essential that vessels arrive within this tidal window as there are no holding facilities outside the marina entrance.
If in doubt, please phone the Marina Office prior to setting out.

Arriving by Sea

It is essential that all vessels navigating in this part of the Bristol Channel are aware of the hazards that exist, particularly the large tidal range and associated flows, and the shipping to and from the Avonmouth and Portbury docks.

You should consult Admiralty charts 1176 and 1859 or their equivalents, and pilot books where available. You will also require tide tables which can be accessed on this website or in the marina handbooks.

As you approach the Marina entrance from the Northeast, you will see the pier on your starboard side, if you are approaching in darkness, you will be able to see the isophase green at the end of the pier, this is a navigational signal for the Portbury Dock. At the entrance to the lock, port and starboard lights are displayed. Also on the port side of the lock you should see the traffic control signal. This conforms to the IALA standard, and should be observed by all vessels using the lock.

As you navigate the Bristol Channel in this area you should keep a listening watch on VHF Ch 12, to learn the whereabouts and actions of other vessels, as you approach Portishead Quays, you should contact the Marina on VHF Ch 80, call sign "Portishead Quays Marina". You will be advised on the next available lock, and should follow any instructions given by the Berthing Master, there may be vessels leaving the lock.

Radio Procedure for small vessel traffic around Avonmouth

• Callsign "BRISTOL VTS"
• Working frequency VHF Channel 12
• Report own craft when passing the reporting points
• Monitor Channel 12 to learn whereabouts and intentions of other vessels
• The waters as shown on the above chartlet are controlled by Bristol VTS, and their instructions must be adhered to.

Keep Clear of Large Vessels

• Avoid deep water channel as defined by 10 metre contour marked by buoys seaward of Portishead
• Avoid the Pilot Boarding area close North of Breaksea light float
• Crossing channel to be done as near as possible at right angles
• On passages to or from South Wales, optimum positions for crossing are:-
  a. English and Welsh light buoy if bound for Portishead
  b. Cockburn light buoy if bound for River Avon
• From Blacknore Light House other inbound traffic should keep to the Southern side of the channel.
• The waters as shown on the above chartlet are controlled by Bristol VTS, and their instructions must be adhered to.

For additional information about the planned marina please contact:
Portishead Quays Marina
Harbour Road
Portishead
North Somerset
BS20 7DF

Marina Manager: Keith Berry
Tel: 01275 841941
Fax: 01275 841942
e-mail: portisheadmarin@aquaymarinas.com

1. The above standard rates exclude hardstanding charges for your vessel and currently reflect the developing nature of the site.
2. Berthing invoices will be issued February 2008 and the full payment or the completed direct debit mandate should be received at the marina by 31st March 2008 at the latest.
3. A minimum charge equivalent to 5.5m boat length will be applied to all contracts.
4. Discounts of 5% are offered on contracts of 6 months and more, if paid in full before the contract term.

Second mast @ 50%

Masthead gear (eg wind vanes, anemometers & VHF aerials etc.) should be removed prior to stepping or unstepping masts. Where such equipment is not removed, Quay Marinas Ltd will not accept liability for any loss or damage that may result. Boat owners should make their own arrangements for going aloft for the removal & re-fixing of masthead equipment.

All prices including VAT @ 17.5%

Please request a marina handbook for further information and the full tariff.

Discount Cruising Offers are available at our other marinas and marinas operated by Premier Marinas on a reciprocal arrangement.

The marina is located in the historic old dock, which lies at the northern end of the town of Portishead. Leisure facilities currently include a large Leisure Centre adjacent to the dock and numerous established pubs, restaurants and local shops within a few minutes walk of the marina.

The City of Bristol is within 15 minutes by car and is home to many attractions, such as Brunel's Clifton Suspension Bridge and S.S. Great Britain, the world famous Bristol Zoo and the vibrant harbourside area. The historic harbour is also accessible by boat via the River Avon with visitor berthing available in the heart of the city.

Penarth Marina &Cardiff Bay - 18 NM

Lying just 18 NM from Portishead, Cardiff Bay makes a great destination, offering all tide access to small craft. Within a few hours sailing, the tranquil waters are an appealing destination to many boat owners. As you exit the Barrage locks, Penarth Marina is clearly visible off your port side. The Marina offers a warm welcome, friendly service and great facilities, berthing is available for visitors in attractive surroundings close to Penarth and Cardiff. All Annual Berth Holders at Portishead will benefit from a 50% reduction on their visitor fees, when staying at Penarth.

For more information and access to the Marina contact the Harbour Master's Office on VHF Channel 80.
Tel: 02920 705021.

For access through the Barrage call Barrage Control on VHF Channel 18.
Tel: 02920 700234.

Admiralty Chart No.'s 1182 - Approaches to Cardiff, 1179 - Bristol Channel.

Bristol - 8.5 NM

Bristol's Historic Harbour is situated 7 miles up stream of the mouth of the river Avon. It is a locked harbour at the heart of the city which gives easy access to shops, restaurants, theatres, cafes, bars and all the entertainment a city has to offer. Visitor moorings are available in either the Floating Harbour or Bristol Marina and it is advisable to arrange a berth prior to arrival. You should plan your passage to arrive at the Cumberland Basin locks from 2.5 hours before HW to 15 minutes before HW. Call City Docks Radio, low power, on Channel 14 for locking instructions. Bristol Harbour affords a unique waterside environment and during the main boating season there are a variety of exciting water activities and competitions taking place culminating in the renowned Bristol Harbour Regatta. Detailed pilotage notes may be obtained from the Harbour Master's Office.
Tel: 0117 9031484.
Admiralty Chart No. 1859 - Port of Bristol

Watchet - 30 NM

The Somerset port of Watchet has been revitalised with the opening of the new Marina in July 2001. The old harbour which was infrequently visited, now boasts a 240 berth marina accessed via a tidal flap gate 2.5 hours either side of HW. The marina is situated in the heart of Watchet and makes an ideal place for visiting yachts and motor boats. The broad Esplanade runs along the length of the Marina and gives way to the pretty, narrow streets of the town. Visitor moorings are available, contact the marina office for more information.
Tel: 01984 631264.
Admiralty Chart No.'s 1179 - Bristol Channel, 1160 - Plans of Ports of Somerset.

Minehead - 34 NM

Minehead offers a small sheltered retreat along the beautiful Somerset coastline. The drying harbour can be accessed 2 hours either side of HW and offers good shelter, although the Harbour does get crowded throughout the holiday season. Larger vessels can anchor off just outside and row ashore.
Admiralty Chart No's 1179 - Bristol Channel, 1160 - Plans of Ports of Somerset.

Porlock Weir - 36 NM

Porlock Weir is one of the many small harbours on the South shore of the Bristol Channel. Access to this picturesque little harbour is 1.5 hours either side of high water. The drying harbour is entered via gates (usually open) and offers good shelter for vessels able to take the ground. Smaller vessels unable to take the ground can lie afloat in a small pool (1m) outside the dock entrance. Porlock Weir is a beautiful and interesting place to visit, with a few nice hostelries in which to sit and watch the world go by.
Admiralty Chart No.'s 1179 - Bristol Channel, 1160 - Plans of Ports of Somerset.

Ilfracombe - 57 NM

Lying on the South side of Lantern Hill and hidden from the sea, Ilfracombe is a beautiful seaside resort with a small harbour which can be identified by the prominent white houses and the Promenade Pier. The harbour, which consists of an inner and an outer harbour is accessible in almost any weather from 2 - 3 hours either side of HW. The inner harbour dries and is suitable for vessels able to take the ground or there are a few visitor moorings in the outer harbour, which is normally accessible, except at LW springs. Ilfracombe has a good selection of shops, cafes and pubs to entertain you and the town and harbour get busy throughout the holiday season. The yacht club has showers and a bar and the town boasts a chandlers and marine engineers.
Admiralty Chart No.'s 1179 - Bristol Channel, 1160 - Plans of Ports of Somerset.

Lundy Island - 75 NM

Located off the North Devon coast, Lundy is the largest island in the Bristol Channel and is a must for anyone cruising in the Channel. The main anchorage is located in the bay at the South East of the island and provides good shelter in winds from the West and South West. Lundy itself is a fascinating place and well worth the trip ashore and climb up the hill to explore the island and sample the delights of the Marisco Tavern.
Admiralty Chart No. 1179 - Bristol Channel.

Sharpness &Gloucester - 20 NM

Cruising the upper reaches of the Severn estuary is challenging and both the vessel and the skipper should be well prepared. Plan your passage to arrive at Sharpness no earlier than 1 hour before HW and no later than HW at Sharpness. After passing through the lock, you enter the start of the Gloucester and Sharpness canal which can be navigated easily up into the heart of the historic Gloucester Docks.
Admiralty Chart No. 1166 - River Severn - Avonmouth to Sharpness.

Swansea - 61 NM

Wales' second largest city, situated on the North shore of the Bristol Channel, Swansea offers another interesting port of call for local sailors. The Marina provides sheltered and fully serviced visitor berths and with the city centre just a short walk from the Marina, there is plenty to entertain everyone. The Marina is reached via passage through the River Tawe Barrage Lock which operates on request 4.5 hours either side of HW. The marina is open from 0700-2200 BST and 0700-1900 GMT out of season. Contact the Marina for locking times.
Tel: 01792 470310.
For access through the barrage call the Tawe Lock on VHF Channel 18.
Tel: 01792 456014.
Admiralty Chart No. 1179 - Bristol Channel.

• Request passage through the lock on VHF Channel 80, callsign "Portishead Quays Marina" or Tel: 01275 841941.
• Prepare your vessel for locking using appropriate fenders and lines, you may be required to raft up alongside another vessel, so fenders and lines both sides of your boat would be beneficial.
• Brief your crew.
• Listen for an instruction for you to enter the lock. Do not enter the lock until the gates are fully open and the green, white, green lights are displayed. N.B. Vessels may be called into the lock in order of size and/or manoeuvrability.
• Enter the lock at a dead slow speed and moor as far forward as possible.
• Secure your vessel with bow and stern lines and springs.
• Do not exit the lock until the gates are fully open.
• Lock ladders are for emergency and staff use only.

Lights and Signals
All vessels must observe light signals as follows.
Three Vertical Red
Vessels shall not proceed and are requested to keep clear of the lock gates.
Green, white green
Vessels may proceed on instruction from Marina Control.

Lock Bookings
We ask all customers to book outward bound locks, you can do this for outward bound locks up to one week in advance. Outward bound locks will run on the hour and half past the hour with hourly intervals at the beginning and end of the tide. Inbound locks will run quarter to and quarter past the hour with hourly intervals at the beginning and end of the tide.

Lock Dimensions
Length 40m Width 9m Sill height Inner +7.0m CD Sill height Outer +3.0m CD

Tidal Access
Under normal conditions, for a moderate drafted vessel (1.5m) the lock will give access of H.W. +/- 4.5 hrs on mean neaps and H.W. +/- 3.5 hrs on mean springs.

We take our customers' safety very seriously. Please therefore read and follow the guidance notes below. You should familiarise yourself with the locations of safety equipment, and its operation. Customers should also ensure that their guests are aware of safety considerations.

General

• Take care on the pontoons, especially at night or in cold weather - do not run. Use the handrail on the access ramp
• Ensure that young children and non-swimmers wear life jackets when on the pontoons or afloat
• Please do not allow children to 'ride' in the marina trolleys
• Report any damaged or defective equipment immediately
• Barbecues are not permitted onboard or on the pontoons
• Keep pontoon walkways clear of equipment
• Allow pontoon water supply to run for 30 seconds before filling your tanks

SOS stations
These are positioned at intervals on the Marina's pontoons, the closest pile caps are marked in red and white with 'SOS station'. Each station houses a fire extinguisher, life ring and first aid kit, with a rescue ladder positioned nearby. It is very important that all Marina users familiarise themselves with their locations.

Falling in
There are fixed rescue ladders on each pontoon leg. Be sure you know where these ladders are situated. Life buoys are available at each SOS station.

Fire drill

• Raise the alarm
• Contact the Marina office. We will call the Fire Service if they have not already been called
• Clear the area of any people who may be in danger, particularly those down wind of the fire
• Tackle the fire only if it is safe to do so
• Leave the area in an orderly manner - do not run
• Gather at the assembly point in the Marina car park

Pontoon electrical outlets
When disconnecting your vessel from shore power, remove the power socket from the power outlet first to avoid a 'live end'. Do not leave 'live' cables on the pontoons. We undertake routine inspections of electrical equipment for your safety. Please report any damage to our equipment and periodically inspect your power leads for wear and tear.

Fuel berth &fuelling

1. No smoking or naked lights whilst on the fuel berth
2. Engines must not be used on the fuel berth
3. Mobile phones must not be used on the fuel berth
4. Fuel will only be served into appropriate containers
5. All refuelling must take place on the fuel berth and from our supply

Speed restrictions
Please observe the 'DEAD SLOW' limit in the marina and lock at all times and do not cause excessive wash. Take particular care when entering/leaving the lock.

Icy weather
Please take extra care during cold and icy conditions. The access ramps and adjacent areas are regularly salted during frosty periods. Salt can be provided to customers who wish to salt their own pontoon berth. Please contact the Marina Office for assistance.

Swimming/diving
Swimming is not permitted within the confines of the marina. Diving operations are only permitted with the express written permission of the marina manager and subject to compliance with current Health and Safety legislation.

Insurance
It is a requirement of the marina's terms and conditions that all vessels berthed within the marina should maintain fully Comprehensive Insurance Cover to the value of £2 million. Commercial operators should also carry appropriate Employers and Public Liability Cover.

Lock safety
Please observe the following instructions when using the marina lock.

• Brief your crew
• Only enter the lock when instructed to do so
• Enter/depart at a dead slow speed
• Proceed as far forward in the lock as practicable
• Secure your vessel with bow and stern lines and springs
• Lock ladders are for emergency and staff use only

Boatyard safety
In the interests of safety and efficiency please observe the following rules for the use of the boatyard.

• Hull supports (e.g. cradles, shores, blocks, etc.) are not to be moved without the direct supervision of marina staff
• The area around your boat should be kept clear. All equipment or materials should be kept aboard or removed from site
• All debris must be disposed of/removed prior to finishing work on each day
• Children are not permitted to 'play'/in the boatyard and must be closely supervised at all times
• No hot work e.g. welding/grinding to be undertaken without the written permission of the marina manager
• Please check power cables are in good condition and run in such a way as not to pose a trip hazard. All leads/power tools should be fitted with outdoor plugs
• For your own safety customers are reminded of the hazards associated with working high above ground level on decks of boats and up ladders and scaffolding
• Owners of yachts are strongly advised to un-step their masts during winter storage

Diary of Events - 2008