Waves from ferries not uncommon - harbour master

Guernsey's acting harbour master has said large waves caused by ferries approaching St Peter Port "aren't uncommon".

James Way was speaking to BBC Guernsey after videos posted on social media showed large waves at La Valette Bathing Pools, said to be due to a ferry approaching St Peter Port at high speed from the direction of Herm.

Mr Way said there was no specific speed limit between the two islands, except in harbours and bays, but all boats must comply with the international rules for prevention of collisions at sea.

He said: "Ultimately the waves are generated by passing ships, so it's not unusual that we see waves like that at the bathing pools."

Mr Way said there had been a "number of incidents over years" caused by waves from ferries, including a woman who was saved from drowning by two 12-year-old girls at Havelet Bay when she was knocked unconscious by a large wave.

Mr Way said there were no plans to introduce a speed limit in the Little Russel - the channel between Guernsey and Herm.

However, he said Guernsey Harbours was open to ways to improve safety, including better signage.

He said the public should be "mindful that conditions can change quite quickly" when swimming at sea or in the bathing pools as people were "exposed to the full elements".

Brittany Ferries said it had introduced new rules in 2017 for high-speed vessels using St Peter Port harbour, including reduced speeds and an adjusted course.

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