Southern Peninsula passage information
the Neptune Channel and Fiddler’s Race, where the tidal wave is backed up into the Dawson Bay area. This phenomenon also causes the NW counter-tidal stream along this part of the coast. The 10m contour is clear of all dangers from S. Kilda to Gilly Point, where an isolated rock sits 2ca off the point near the contour line. Beauty Point Lt Ho (W 8 sided twr) [Iso.4s61m15M] sits on the point below a 110m hill.
TIDAL STREAMS
The flood stream runs in a SE’ly direction along the Lawrence Channel and generally runs in this direction until HW Victoria +2. An eddy, which runs contrary to the main stream, is evident close to the NE coast of the Southern Peninsula. This eddy is formed at the eastern extremity of Dawson Bay at approximately HW Victoria -1 and is apparent 2–3M off the coast between eastern Dawson Bay and Colville to the NW. This NE-going stream runs for 9 hours. The dividing line between the two opposing streams is usually noticeable by the differing sea state; whichever stream is opposing the wind will be significantly rougher. When passage making to the SE it may be beneficial for slow-speed craft to stay some 3M offshore to take advantage of the favourable SE-going stream.
TIDAL HEIGHT ANOMALY IN DAWSON BAY Two factors contribute to an unusually large tidal range in Dawson Bay. Initially, the SE-going flood builds up in the Neptune Channel between Slade Island and Beauty Point. This narrow channel creates a choke point, increasing the sea height locally and causing the strong tidal flow through the races. Secondly, a proportion of the SE stream, being restricted by the narrows of the Neptune Channel, turns back on itself, creating the reverse NW-going eddy. This further augments the tide-raising effect within the bay.
Traffic
Mariners should be aware that high-speed (45kn+) ferries transit the Dawson Bay and Fiddler’s Race area. A good all-round lookout must be maintained and it should be noted that these ferries create a large wash, even when passing at a distance. The relatively narrow Fiddler’s Race and Neptune Channel creates a choke point for vessels and therefore a higher than normal traffic density may be encountered in this area.
Fiddler’s Race
Mariners should navigate with care when passage making through Fiddler’s Race, which is less than 8ca wide at the narrowest point. Working the tidal stream correctly (see below) and having a recent marine weather forecast are vital prerequisites for planning a safe passage through the race. The area is well marked with 5 major Lt Ho. However, unmarked isolated rocks exist 0.5M off the mainland coast. A 3M ridge of rocks and islets runs NW from Pentire Island. A race extends out to 1M off Beauty Point during sp tides, somewhat less at nps.
The tidal streams within the 20m contour of Beauty Bay are weak. With an offshore wind, the southern part of the bay can make a suitable waiting anchorage. Dasher Rock Lt Ho (B&W chequered twr) [Fl (4)15s37m10M] is 2ca off Raven Point. Two isolated rocks are situated 4ca E of Dasher Rock. The race off Raven Point extends across the channel to Race Rock at sp tides when the wind is against the tidal stream. Race Rock Lt Ho (W twr 2 B bands) [Iso.6s20m5M] sits almost central in the race. The SE part of the race is marked by Tintagel Lt Ho (W twr) [Fl (3)10s58m10M] and Pentire Lt Ho (W twr R band) [Fl.5s105m9M]
Tidal Streams in Fiddler’s Race
The tidal stream runs up to 6.4kn in the race so the timing of passage making through the race is of the essence, making the most of slack water and therefore calmer seas. With wind against tide, overfalls extend across the race with dangerous sea conditions. At spring tides, with an opposing wind greater than F5, Small Craft should avoid the race when the tidal stream is running hard. Slack water exists for approximately 30 mins at the change of the tide; this occurs at HW Victoria +21 Victoria -31
/2 /2 . Tintagel Island to Renown Point
Several rock ledges extend seawards from the steep-to cliffs of the N coast of Fitzroy Bay. The unlit Twin Rocks (19m) stand some 1.25M from the shoreline and require due navigational care at night or in poor visibility. The rocks give good radar returns. Seal Island and its adjoining rocks are covered by the F.R light of Grumlin Head Lt Ho (W oct twr) [Fl.3s30m12M&F.R.27m10M]. Unlit islands and dangerous rocks that extend out to 1.5M abound the coastline between Iguana Point and Renown Point. This area is a Marine Reserve and landing is prohibited on all islands.
Tidal Streams
Tidal streams in Fitzroy Bay run up to a maximum of 3kn at springs, roughly in a N–S, S–N direction. Within the 20m contour the stream tends to follow the sweep of the bay. Inside the 10m line the tidal stream is noticeably weaker.
Traffic
Port Fitzroy is a busy ferry, general cargo and fishing port. Ferries, including high-speed craft, leave the harbour at frequent intervals and owners of Small Craft should maintain a good lookout. Mariners not entering port are advised to maintain a distance of at least 500m from the entrance.
and HW
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