Safety first in Tory Channel

Ships using the Marlborough Sounds are generally navigating more consistently, particularly at the entrance of Tory Channel.

Council’s July Environment and Planning meeting heard how the introduction of the Marlborough Common Passage Plan in 2024 had resulted in a notable decrease in space used and greater consistency by ferries during critical turns in the Sounds.

Marlborough Harbourmaster Captain Jake Oliver said the data analysed from September 2025 to February this year showed a clear picture the plan was contributing to improved navigation safety and consistency in ferry operations.

“The data also provides Council with confidence that ferries are operating as expected and provides a benchmark for monitoring the new ferries when they arrive,” he said.

Captain Oliver explained how data had shown ships previously often entered a ‘reserve’ area to navigate turns, particularly when entering Tory Channel.

“While it was safe and nothing happened, it is not best practice,” he said. “Since bringing in the passage plan there has been a marked improvement - they are making tighter turns.”

The Marlborough Common Passage Plan aimed to improve pre-pilotage communication between pilots, the holders of pilotage exemption certificates and the vessels they serviced, and prepared vessels for transits of pilotage areas.

It ensured plans, waypoints and other planning considerations were completed and achieved consistently across vessels.

“It also intends to improve water space management and situational awareness between piloted and non-piloted vessels within the Marlborough Sounds,” Captain Oliver said.

Data showed there were between 419 and 500 transits of Queen Charlotte Sounds / Tory Channel each month.