Poole VTS provides an essential Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) as defined by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).
Note: Poole VTS until February 2025 was known as “Harbour Control”. This change has been made at the specific request of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency to fall in line with IALA Guideline G1083. There are 23 designated Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) Centres in the UK, listed in MSN 1796, with the last few exceptions expected to rename during 2025.
Poole VTS is manned by one of five Officers, 365 days, 24/7 providing information for all vessels and traffic clearances for those over 25m in length.
Poole VTS monitors VHF channels 14 and 16, Radar, CCTV, AIS 3D monitoring equipment, weather stations and tidal gauges so that a comprehensive service can be delivered at all times. They are assisted by several patrol vessels, third-party organisations across the harbour and, where required, individual harbour users.
Poole VTS use Message Markers and Standard Marine Phrases to ensure clear and concise communications are upheld at all times
In the event of an underway incident or emergency, Poole VTS should be informed as soon as possible. In a distress situation where immediate assistance is required, the Coastguard should be contacted first via VHF 16 and 999 first.
For other marine incidents or accidents within Poole Harbour and its approaches, no matter how minor, a report should be submitted here following an initial verbal report to Poole VTS on VHF Channel 14 or 01202 440230.