Navigation

Important information about Tideway navigation

Navigation rules for rowing boats on the river Thames are not consistent along its length. The current arrangement on the Tideway allows rowers to "work the slacks" to minimise some of the hazards of rowing on what can be a fast flowing tidal river, with bridges, moorings, and sandbanks.

Those who are familiar with the Upper Thames and the Tideway, as well as those who are new to the river, or who are visiting for training or racing, are urged to familairise yourselves with the current navigation arrangements.

Live Map can be seen here on the PLA website.

Tideway Code of Practice

The Code of Practice for Rowing on the Tideway was revised in 2019. Whilst the basic navigation of the river has not changed, the rules should now be more easily understood.

Those boating on the Tideway should not assume that they "know" what the real rules are, as some previously widespread practices and shortcuts, will not be tolerated.

The PLA, in conjunction with the Thames Regional Rowing Council, produced the code in booklet form and a detailed map in A0 size. The booklet is available to download from the PLA website, along with other guidance documents, here: Tideway Code

​Visit the Port of London Authority website to learn more about how to help you make the most of the tidal Thames safely: http://www.boatingonthethames.co.uk/Rowing

Receive key updates from the Port of London Authority: https://pla.co.uk/email-subscriptions

Steering on the Tideway

An eight-page introduction to steering on the Tideway is available to download here: Introduction to Steering on the Tideway.

British Rowing produced a helpful video on Tideway navigation, which can be watched here.