Alderney Ferry Services’ new vessel Dart Fisher has been awarded a licence under the Licencing of Passenger Boats (Alderney) Ordinance 1954.
Under the law, a written application for a boat licence must be made in writing and a report from the Harbour Master submitted to the States before a licence can be granted.
The General Services Committee (GSC) have considered that report and granted the licence.
The Harbour Authority has provided full guidance and assistance to Alderney Ferry Services on the practical operation of the vessel within Braye Harbour. This includes recommended mooring options in various wind and weather conditions and the most suitable areas, methods and restrictions to ensure the safe embarking or disembarking of passengers.
GSC was told Dart Fisher will depart Braye Harbour to seek refuge elsewhere when strong or severe weather is forecast.
The ferry’s size has also placed it within the scope of the Alderney Pilotage Ordinance 1988 which applies to commercial vessels exceeding 60 gross tonnes. Under this ordinance, Masters must undertake an examination to demonstrate sufficient levels of local navigational knowledge and boat handling prowess to obtain a vessel-specific Pilotage Exemption Certificate.
