Entering Conwy Marina

A tidal sill was constructed across the entrance to the marina at the end of 2000 / start of 2001.

The intended result is a substantial reduction in the rate of siltation - providing more water under boats and a generally improved environment for marina users.

The tidal sill is actually a 'flap gate', 25 metres wide, which automatically rises and falls when the the tide crosses the +3.5m above Chart Datum mark.
This in practice generally equates to half tide access or better.

Sill Entrance

Each end of the sill is marked with a bare metal pole with a set of lights on top.
Do not attempt to cross outside of these poles at any state of tide as you will hit the fixed retaining walls.

A gauge showing the depth of water over the sill is on each pole.

The lights on top of the poles are not very clear at present - until you are right in line and directly on top of them. They comprise two alternate lights - green for "OK to proceed" and red for "do not proceed". It is understood that after much pressure from CMBHA this wholly inadequate arrangement is to be replaced in April 2002 with the more usual all-round three vertically arranged lights system as can be seen at Victoria Dock in Caernarfon.

Arriving when the Sill is Up (Closed)

There is a waiting pontoon to the left of the sill gate with access to the shore up a (sometimes steep) ramp.
Tie up here and wait for the tide to gain entry to the Marina.

Entry and Exit Protocol

The following text is taken directly from the Marina's Official Handbook.

NEW VESSEL ACCESS ARRANGEMENTS VIA TIDAL FLAP GATE Observe Traffic Lights - Red: Do not proceed Green: Safe to proceed Do not navigate in the vicinity of the flap gate until the green light is lit When entering and leaving the marina, keep to a sensible 'slow' speed and keep 'right' in accordance with normal navigational practice Observe sill depth gauges Observe vessels entering or leaving the marina in opposite direction to your intended course. Where practically possible judge the cross point to be away from the gate aperture In the event of engine failure, contact the marina on VHF Channel 80. The marina will advise other boats of your vessels condition by radio and loud speaker, and if possible render assistance. In the event that you miss tidal access to the marina, secure to holding pontoons IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS REGARDING THE SAFE USE OF THE GATE ENTRANCE, CONTACT THE MARINA OFFICE.