Esso refinery, Southampton water

[PCR]

Hi,

Would anyone mind sharing thoughts / experience of how to safely 1pass the Esso refinery docks as part of the Eling - Lepe trip?

Not sure of how to do this part safely and in compliance with any rules or guidelines - any thoughts would be most welcome.

Thanks!

Phil

[Rgrc29]

A couple of us paddled past here just last weekend, the only advice i can give you is go outside of the pier on the western side of Southampton water. We've looked before but can't see a navigable way through inside. Don't get too close to the moored tankers, but equally don't stray too far out as your in the main shipping channel here, watch for ferries and other large vessels.

Hope that helps,

[robhorton]

In addition to the above, take a VHF and listen on Channel 12. You might want to consider phoning Southampton VTS before you set off.

[PCR]

Thanks very much.

In addition, I found this website setting out shipping movements, and wanted to share.

http://www.southamptonvts.co.uk/Live_In ... _Schedule/

Good info here. Slightly hairy moment when a tug moved to a massive oil tanker as we were approaching it - but looking at the mooring lines and other paraphernalia still in place - and asking the harbour master who was nearby - helped us move on.

Good day's paddle.

Thanks again.

Phil