Due to notable shingle movements to the north of the Mid Knoll Buoy with the Knoll shoals encroaching the main channel it is strongly recommended that yachts should keep to the West of the channel between the Deben and Mid Knoll buoys.
An intermediate survey will be carried out and published online in the first week of September provided weather conditions are suitable.
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This publication would not be possible without the backing of our sponsors:
- Fox’s Marina
- Suffolk Yacht Harbour
- Seamark Nunn
- Tidemill Yacht Harbour
- Atlantic Rigging
- Suffolk Sails
- Marine Surveys East & South Ltd
- Deben Inns
Last survey undertaken : 18th March 2011
Woodbridge Haven – 51° 58.200 N 01° 23.850 E
West Knoll – 51° 58.359 N 001° 23.468 E
Mid Knoll – 51° 58.759N 001° 23.411E E
General Instructions
In general it is advisable to enter the Deben from half flood onwards. Strong onshore winds can make entry extremely hazardous and storms can substantially alter the shoals. Keep an eye on your sounder! – Pilotage services are available from the Felixstowe Ferry Harbourmaster (John White) by phone on 01394 270106, Mobile 07803 476621 or VHF Channel 8 calling ‘Odd Times’
Entry: Approach the West Knoll Buoy (Red) on a track of 304° (T) taking into account tidal set and drift. On a rising tide, the water flow will be from north to south. Once you have reached the West Knoll Buoy, spot the Mid Knoll Buoy (Green) and run along a transit between the buoy and something on the shore in order to remain within the deeper channel.
Rock armour (sea defences) to the west of the entrance are subject to continual erosion resulting in rocks occasionally coming adrift. It is advisable to maintain adequate clearance from these defenses.
Enter the Deben by remaining on the western side of the channel leaving the Deben Buoy (Red) to port on entry following the main deep water channel to the east of the Horse Sand which is surrounded by moorings.
Surveys are reproduced free of charge by eastcoastrivers.com and are published for the general information of the readership. Although due care has been taken in the compilation and preparation of the survey, the publishers cannot accept any responsibility for any errors or omissions in the information provided together with, and to the extent permitted by law, any liabilities, losses, claims or damages that arise there from.
It should be noted that meteorological conditions may affect and alter the areas surveyed and the data published therein merely reflects the measurements taken, at the last survey and does not necessarily reflect the situation as may exist at a subsequent occasion for any particular location.
