10 Mar 2010

Whitby Harbour may be approached safely from any direction except South East. From this direction Whitby Rock Buoy must be rounded and kept on the Port Hand. At the Rock Buoy, approximately three-quarters of a mile from the Harbour mouth, the tide turns some two hours after high or low water.

On approaching the Piers, care should be exercised as a strong set to the East will be experienced across the entrance during the two hours preceding high water.

Dangerous sea conditions can occur at the harbour entrance during strong North to East onshore winds. Entry to Whitby Harbour for small craft is not recommended during this time.

Leading marks should now be visible, consisting of a White Triangle for the Lower Mark, and a White Circle with a Black Vertical line for the Upper Mark (unlit). Sited on the East Side of the Harbour these give the Channel in from the sea on a Bearing of 169 degrees True.

This course should be held until two similar Leading marks sited on the East Pier are observed carrying fixed Amber Lights. Course should now be altered to 209 degrees True bringing the second set of marks in line astern.

This Channel is, as far as possible, maintained at a depth of 1.4m below chart datum.

The swing bridge opens on request each hour and half hour for 2 hours either side of high water.

Vessels arriving outside the bridge opening times are requested to wait in the lower harbour alongside the Fish Quay/fishing vessels or on the waiting pontoon on the east side at the end of the Fish Pier. Vessels on the quay must remain manned at all times to facilitate the movement of fishing vessels.

This map is provided for guidance only and must not be used for navigation purposes.

Legal Disclaimer

Whitby Harbour Watchkeepers should be contacted on VHF channel 11 before entering the harbour. The Watchkeeper can also be contacted, subject to operational requirements, by telephone on 01947 602272.