Sydney Harbour Speed Limits
A 15-knot speed limit - fast enough that your powerboat is planning with its bow above the water to traverse ferry wake - and a ban on drifting, anchoring or stopping (except to avoid collision) between the Opera House and Blues Point comes into force froSadly, it took a fatality for something to be done about the fast ferries that have made the narrows under the Harbour Bridge among the most dangerous places on Port Jackson. The sadder fact is four more died in another crash with a ferry in the same area before the safety measures were announced.
The restrictions follow an investigation into the crash between a dinghy and the accident-prone Dawn Fraser RiverCat on January 5, which found the RiverCat's excessive speed of 22kts contributed to the crash. The investigation into the March 28 accident is pending.
BOA president, Michael Chapman, said the new measures were "sensible, balanced and directed to improve safety for all without being unduly restrictive."
Harbour boaties can expect more, albeit temporary, speed restrictions and exclusion zones during the APEC Meeting from September 2 to 9. The effected area is between Fort Denison and Pier One, with speed restrictions consistent with events such as New Years Eve. However, Man'o'War steps will be closed for a week and, on the night of September 8, there will be exclusion zones for the harbour fireworks and tall-ships display.
For more information, visit www.maritime.gov.au
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