Danger in the seagate

The passage between the islands through the seagate is risky. Accidents often occur. Follow these instructions!

Navigating through the seagate

• High, breaking waves Avoid in winds over 5 bft. Under unfavorable conditions like wind against current or swell, often navigable only in lighter winds. Prepare crew and ship for rough seas. Clip on life jackets.

• Constantly shifting shoals Consult locals and official notices (NfS & BfS) before passage for the current situation and buoyage. Frequent buoy relocation can lead to chart discrepancies. Always navigate by the buoys.

• Very hard, shallow ground Depths less than 2 meters in some areas. High risk of grounding in waves. Ideally navigate from 2 hours before high tide. Pay attention to spring tides.

• Strong currents up to 4 knots Navigate only with sufficient engine power and keep the engine running under sail to remain maneuverable at all times.

• Narrow fairway Obstacles like groynes extend into the fairway in some areas. Strictly follow the buoy line, also check astern. Navigate in and out at the approach buoy. Navigate only during daylight and in good visibility.