MOD Vessels Operating in Excess of the Speed Limit - KHM Portsmouth LNTM No 64/25
Published 21:38 on 9 Jun 2025
1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the Kings Harbour Master Portsmouth that Ministry of Defence (MOD) vessels, usually MOD Police vessels, may operate in excess of the speed limit in the Dockyard Port of Portsmouth as a component of MOD training, by day and night. 2. MOD vessels are authorised to exceed the 10 knots speed limit when: a. the training serial forms part of an approved training plan. b. a risk assessment is completed and submitted to KHM in advance of the serial. c. vessel coxswains have been properly endorsed by the appropriate authority. d. a vessel movement brief is given to all participants by the lead instructor. e. transits are conducted away from small craft moorings. f. training serials avoid the harbour entrance.
3. On every occasion before training commences, Portsmouth VTS shall be informed of the training plan. An update on vessel movements for the duration of the training serial will be provided by Portsmouth VTS at this time. Portsmouth VTS may decline, or require amendments of the plan, should traffic movements require.
4. Action will be taken to reduce wash and adverse effects on other marine users. Training serials will be adapted, or aborted, should it be necessary to maintain safety, good order and minimal disruption to the marine environment.
5. All mariners should be assured that these craft will operate as required by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) in general and Rule 6 (Safe Speed) specifically. The coxswains, and where applicable, instructors embarked onboard these vessels have been fully briefed of their responsibilities to all other users in this regard and will moderate their movements accordingly.
6. At night MOD craft may from time to time operate without navigation lights (subject to approval by KHM and in accordance with the training requirement) when they are responsible for avoiding all other obstructions and craft afloat.
7. All mariners are requested to report any concerns to KHM on Ch 11 or by telephoning 023 9272 3694.
8. Portsmouth LNTM 06/25 is hereby superseded.
Last updated 21:38 on 9 June 2025