The Gateway to Europe

Vessel Traffic Services

PORT LOCATION:

MARINE & PORT INFORMATION

Vessel Traffic Service (VTS)

Port of Dover VTS manages and oversees safety of navigation in Europe’s busiest Ferry port and one of the best known locations for cross-Channel sailing.

Dover Port Control

From the state-of-the-art Operation Room, with 360 degree views around the Port and located at Dover’s Eastern Entrance, the 10 VTS Officers deliver a Traffic Organisation Service and Traffic Information Service on VHF 74 to:

  • 120 cruise ships a year
  • 160 cargo ships a year
  • Approximately 120 ferry movements a day

In addition, it services approximately 4,500 visiting yachts and small craft, plus local berth holders.

Dover port Control is in constant contact with the Harbour Patrol Launch, which will be directed to intercept any vessel not complying with Port Control’s instructions or to assist as required.
There are 10 fully qualified VTS Officers who receive refresher training every three years to keep up-to-date with improvements in the industry, showing the commitment of Dover’s VTS to deliver an excellent service to the Port’s Marine customers and leisure community.

Objectives of VTS
  • Safety of life at sea
  • Safety of navigation
  • Efficiency of vessel traffic movement
  • Protection of the marine environment
  • Protection of the adjacent communities and infrastructure
  • Contribution to the efficiency of related activities and supporting maritime security
In order to deliver these objectives, it is essential that VTS Officers have access to a comprehensive traffic image at all times including factors influencing marine traffic movements, such as weather and sea conditions. In addition, VTS Officers must be presented with information about all participating vessels and their intention, in ample time, to allow for a full assessment of the situation and the appropriate control of traffic.

Therefore, it is imperative that Leisure Craft are in constant contact with Port Control so they may be advised, in ample time, of the intentions of other vessels in the vicinity.

How we deliver VTS;
  • Dover Port Control is open 365 days, 24/7, constantly listening on VHF 74. It also monitors its secondary channels VHF12 and VHF16.
  • Dover Port Control communicates via telephones, email, signal lights, Automatic Identification System or through the Harbour Patrol Launch. VTS Officers will use Message Markers and Standard Marine Phrases to ensure clear and concise communications are upheld at all times.
  • Dover Port Control has a comprehensive integrated AIS/radar system providing coverage, both inside and outside of the Port, so it can deliver an excellent service even in poor weather conditions. In 2018, Dover Port Control will undergo a complete £2m upgrade, underling the Port’s commitment to be the Best Port in the World.
Dover Western Docks Revival

Dover Western Docks Revival is the regeneration of the Western Docks delivering a new cargo terminal, port centric distribution hub, a transformed waterfront featuring a new marina with a navigational channel to the Wellington Dock bordered by a marina pier and marina curve to ultimately attract shops, restaurants and bars. The cargo facility is scheduled to be operational during Q1 2019 with the new marina fit out anticipated during the first half of 2019. A fantastic new marina leisure destination on the doorstep of the closest marina to mainland Europe.

ENTRY PROCEDURE

1. When 2 miles off call ‘Dover Port Control’ on VHF Ch.74 or on +44 (0)1304 206063 or Marina Office on +44(0)1304 241669 to use the entrances.

  • Advise Port Control – Who you are, where you are and where you want to go.
  • Advise Port Control of the vessel’s dimensions and of any defects.

When three red lights are displayed at the entrances, DO NOT proceed without specific permission from Port Control.

2. Call ‘Dover Port Control’ back when 200m off for permission to enter. Maintain a listening watch on VHF Ch.74 at all times and follow the instructions from Port Control.

3. When crossing the Harbour, keep well clear of the ferry berths and cruise berths.

4. Please also keep well clear of the DWDR work site and do not enter the Exclusion Zone.

5. Pass up through the inner harbour towards the new ‘Wick Channel’, keeping a sharp lookout for numerous work boats.

6. Call Port Control when approaching the “Wick Channel” traffic lights / Red Monopole to seek permission to pass through the Wick Channel.

  • The Wick Channel is a narrow channel with a sharp blind bend. It is managed by Port Control and operated with inbound or outbound convoys.
  • Two way traffic is not permitted.
  • Small craft may be expected to wait in the Inner Harbour until the outbound traffic from the Marina is clear.
    Passage through the ‘Wick Channel’ may be suspended at times, when large vessels are transiting the channel.
  • Follow the instructions from Port Control and keep well clear.

7. When clear of the Wick Channel, call “Dover Marina” on VHF Ch.80 for berthing instructions.