OVERVIEW
The Port’s Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) controls all shipping movements, ensuring that vessels arrive and depart their berths efficiently, smoothly and safely.
Pilotage is compulsory for vessels over 50m length overall, except where a Pilot Exemption Certificate (PEC) is held. Pilots board one to three miles east of the harbour entrance.
As the statutory harbour authority, our responsibility includes maintaining the channel, by regular hydrographic surveying and plough dredging. Any form of dredging by third parties on the River Tyne requires a licence from the MMO (Marine Management Organisation) and consent from the Port of Tyne. Find out more here.
Customers can hire our 16m workboat, the Sir Bobby Robson. Equipped with a 17 tonne hydraulic crane and 12 tonne winch, the boat is ideal for buoy tendering, dive support, towage and other support activities.