Harbour navigation

The Floating Harbour and Feeder Canal are open for navigation by day and by night, although Netham Lock at the far end of the Feeder Canal is closed at night.

The charted depth of the Floating Harbour may be reduced through silting and therefore caution should be taken.

Navigation is subject to the ‘Collision Regulations’ and bye-laws made under the Bristol Docks Acts and any amendments. The whole of the City Docks should be regarded as a ‘Narrow Channel’.

Vessels over 24 metres in length must inform the Harbour Master of their intentions to move within the Floating Harbour.

The speed limit in the Floating Harbour is 5.2 knots (6mph) and 3.5 knots (4mph) in the upper River Avon and Feeder Canal, unless special permission has been obtained from the Harbour Master.

Attention is drawn to the risk of collision at the approaches to all bridgeways. Vessels should sound one prolonged blast before going through any bridgeways.

More information about Bristol Harbour

Contact us

For all general visitor information, please call the Bristol Harbour Office, Underfall Yard, Cumberland Road, Bristol BS1 6XG on 0117 903 1484 or email harbour.office@bristol.gov.uk or click here for a full list of contacts and links

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