Here you will find instructions for navigating into Belfast Harbour

With the new system comming totally into force soon it would be in everyones best interest if those at sea could use this vital piece of equipment properly.

To avoid last minute disappointment due to major operations within the Harbour, it is strongly recommended that parties wishing to transit the Harbour write to the Harbour Master in advance at the following address:

The Harbour Master,
Belfast Harbour Commissioners
Harbour Office
Belfast
BT1 3AL

Prior to leaving for the Harbour, telephone Belfast Port Control,
(028) 9055 3504 to request permission for the trip. Inform the VTS Operator how many craft will be making the trip, the name of the lead craft, ETA for entering the channel, destination and a contact (Mobile) telephone No.

Just prior to entering the Victoria Channel contact Port Control, on
VHF Ch 12, for permission to enter the channel giving position you
will be entering the Channel, confirm number of craft and destination.

Whilst in Belfast Harbour a listening watch MUST be maintained on
VHF Ch 12 by ALL CRAFT. All Craft MUST REMAIN TOGETHER. No deviation from the initial passage plan should take place without the express permission of the Port Control. Any request made by Port
Control should be complied with immediately.

All craft should proceed at a prudent speed under power only

On arrival at destination a report should be made to the Port Control on VHF Ch 12, also advising them of ETD.

On departure contact should be made with the Port Control, again stating number of craft, point of departure and position it is intended to leave the Victoria Channel. Again All craft should keep a listening watch on VHF Ch 12 and stay together.

On clearing The Victoria Channel a call should be made to Port Control stating that all craft are clear of the Channel and where they have cleared the Channel.

It should be borne in mind that Belfast is a busy commercial port and safety is paramount.

No small craft will be permitted to transit the harbour during the
hours of Darkness or in Restricted Visibility.