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21 Jan 2016 / Delaware Bay, River & tributaries, USA

Seasonal Ice Procedures: Ice Condition 3

The Captain of the Port (COTP), Delaware Bay, is notifying mariners that Ice Condition 3 has been set for the port which includes the Delaware Bay and River, the C&D Canal, Cape May Harbor and Canal, and the ICW.

This means that weather conditions are favorable for the formation of ice in navigable waters, but navigated is not impacted by ice. All masters, ship agents, owners, operators of all vessels, marine facilities, and marinas should review and adhere to the following procedures for the Delaware River and C&D Canal:

  • When ice is present, but less than 2 inches, vessels must have a propulsion system with adequate horsepower, and be able to maneuver unassisted through the ice without needing to stop, back off and ram the ice.
  • Vessel moorings should be checked frequently to ensure the vessel is adequately moored.
  • Vessels at anchor should maintain their engines on standby at all times.
  • Vessel sea chests should be checked regularly for ice buildup and precautions should be taken to ensure that the sea chests are kept clear.
  • Vessels at anchor should ensure that proper bridge watches are stood at all times.
  • The COTP, Delaware Bay may establish additional requirements for specific geographic areas of the COTP Zone if conditions warrant such restrictions.
  • The US Army Corps of Engineers has imposed a steel hull restriction in the C&D Canal.

(For information about operations in the USA contact GAC USA at [email protected])

Source: US Coast Guard, Sector Delaware Bay, Marine Safety Information Bulletin #01-16 dated 20 January 2016

If quoting any content from Hot Port News, please cite GAC Hot Port News as the source.

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