Information for recreational boaters Sydney Harbour & Port Botany
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  • Local Marine Notices
  • Cruise schedule
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  • Wave, wind & tide
  • Marine services
  • Look Out Ships About

    Sydney Harbour is getting busier every year and ships coming to our shores are getting bigger.

    If you’re a recreational boater you should take care and remember to look out, ships about.

    Before you head out make sure you check the daily vessel movement schedules and listen to the safety broadcasts 
    Sydney Harbour - Channel 13
    Botany Bay - Channel 12

    Sydney Harbour Vessel Movements
    Port Botany Vessel Movements

    Steps to stay safe near seagoing ships

    • Listen to the safety broadcasts from the 24/7 Vessel Traffic Services centre (Sydney VTS).
      • Sydney Harbour - Channel 13
      • Botany Bay - Channel 12
    • Always keep a lookout for seagoing ships.
    • Determine if the vessel is moving towards you or away from you.
    • Always keep a safe distance away from a large vessel.
    • Act early so you can move away from these seagoing ships.
    • Familiarise yourself with the shipping channels or fairways.
    • Stay clear of the channels or fairways when seagoing ships are entering or departing the ports.
    • Be aware of wakes of seagoing ships, particularly when the large vessel is in a relatively shallow water and moving at higher speeds.
    • Always have your navigation lights on at night so other vessels can clearly see you.
    Monitor Vessel Traffic Services (Sydney VTS)

    VHF CHANNEL 13 - SYDNEY

    Monitor Vessel Traffic Services (Sydney VTS)

    VHF CHANNEL 12 - BOTANY BAY