For some, bridges are romantic; for others they are troll homes to avoid…
Making contact with a bridge is not a positive event, but for some darned reason nearly every boat has at least one near miss — even if it’s just whacking the structure with the VHF antenna. We’ve seen it done, done it ourselves and paid the price. At best, it’ll be two or three C-notes to replace an antenna. At worst, well, we’ve seen the worst. Here are some tips to skim under bridges scot-free.
If you’ve never hit a bridge, you may not have to — if you follow these tips:
-Know your bridge clearance. Add the height of any antennae or radar on top, plus one foot for safety. A suspicious eye will keep you out of trouble. No matter how tall the bridge, get in the habit of eyeing them as if there were trolls underneath.
-Bridge clearance is usually posted or painted on the pilings in bold characters. Compare the number to your known clearance.
-Bridge clearances are posted on the charts. Study them before you enter unfamiliar waters.
-In tidal areas, be aware of changing bridge clearances. A rising tide may float all boats, but not bridges.
-Chat with the neighbors or the marina, and ask them about tricky spots — not just bridges, but perhaps unexpected shallow areas as well.
-Watch for following currents — they can drag you under a bridge if you try to creep under at slow speeds.
-When approaching a low bridge, post a lookout as far aft as safely practical and approach slowly, while he “eyeballs” the clearance.
-When returning, remember the tides — clearance can change hour by hour.
-In many states, idle speed is the law under bridges. Even if it is not, it’s prudent. Many an accident has occurred when a boater struck an angler anchored behind a bridge.
-Drawbridges need advance notice. Bridge tenders monitor VHF channel 9 in most waters. The correct channel is always posted clearly on the bridge. Try to give the tender as much warning of your approach as possible.
-Take turns passing through narrow bridge aprons. Its tricky enough getting under; don’t compound the problem by trying to squeeze through side by side with an oncoming boater.
-If you do bump a bridge, make sure your boat and passengers are secure. Report the incident to the local marine patrol or Coast Guard.
