NTM Notice No. 01/2026
29 January 2026
Bridport Harbour – West Bay
Notice to Mariners
Notice No. 01 / 2026
Date: 29 January 2026
Date: 29 January 2026
Significant Sand Bar Formation – Restricted Access
Mariners are advised that a large sand bar has developed across the entrance to Bridport Harbour, resulting in significantly restricted access.
Details
Recent tidal conditions and onshore swell have caused extensive sand deposition within the harbour entrance. Depth checks carried out by harbour staff show:
- The sand bar has built up to approximately 3 m above Chart Datum (CD) at its highest point.
- This has produced severely reduced depth over the entire entrance channel, particularly at mid‑ and low‑water states.
- The build‑up is most prominent on the eastern side of the harbour entrance, though the whole width is affected.
- There is a high risk of grounding for vessels attempting entry or exit except during favourable tidal conditions.
Advice to Mariners
- Entry or departure should only be attempted around High Water and only in appropriate sea conditions.
- Mariners must proceed with caution, keeping speed to a minimum and maintaining a close watch on depth.
- Vessels with deeper draughts are advised not to attempt entry until further notice.
- Skippers remain responsible for ensuring their vessel can safely navigate the entrance.
Harbour Operations
The harbour team is continuing to monitor the situation and exploring mitigation options including dredging. Further Notices to Mariners will be issued as conditions change.
Contact
For updated information, please contact:
Bridport Harbour Office
Tel: 01308 423222
Email: harbour@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk
VHF: Channel 16 / Working Channel 11
Tel: 01308 423222
Email: harbour@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk
VHF: Channel 16 / Working Channel 11