These Are the Merchant Marine’s Safety Measures for Navigating During the Solar Eclipse
The Directorate-General for the Merchant Marine, part of the Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility, has issued a resolution containing recommendations for skippers and users of recreational craft heading out to sea on 12 August to observe the total solar eclipse, which will be visible from waters off the coasts of A Coruña, Lugo, Asturias, Santander, Bilbao, Castellón, Valencia, Tarragona and the Balearic Islands.
These guidelines, which also apply to yacht clubs and marinas in the same areas, are intended to ensure the safety of those who choose to watch the eclipse from the sea. Particular consideration has been given to the expected concentration of vessels at viewing locations, at a time when the astronomical phenomenon may cause distractions, a gradual reduction in ambient light and local changes in weather conditions.
The Merchant Marine’s general recommendations include taking extra precautions due to the possible presence of nearby vessels in observation areas, maintaining a listening watch on VHF Channel 16 and remaining alert to any instructions issued over this channel. It is also mandatory not to carry more people on board than the maximum number permitted by the vessel’s certificates.
The resolution refers to measures established in current regulations concerning voyage planning, maintaining a proper lookout and preventing collisions, onboard lights and signals, anchoring and remaining at sea, communications and safety equipment, and passenger limits, among other matters.
It also includes advice on safely observing the eclipse, weather conditions during the astronomical event and the priority that must always be given to maritime safety, safe navigation, compliance with permitted navigation areas and protection of the marine environment while on board.
It is also essential to follow the instructions concerning vessels returning to their berths. In this regard, yacht clubs and marinas are advised to strengthen and, where necessary, regulate the management of vessel arrivals and departures, particularly during periods when a high volume of movements is expected. The aim is to preserve navigational safety and ensure the smooth flow of maritime traffic at the entrances to marinas and yacht harbours.
They are also advised to provide users with preventive information so that vessel movements can be carried out in an orderly and staggered manner whenever possible, and to reinforce monitoring and assistance in access areas to ensure safe and orderly traffic.
You can view all the recommendations HERE.