Richer data helps Thames pilots plan safer passages
Integrating additional data from our water level and current forecasting model with the International Hydrographic Organization’s new S-100 data standards provides a data-rich resource that has been developed to make navigation safer and more efficient.
Under the S-100 framework, the product specifications S-104 (Water Level Information for Surface Navigation) and S-111 (Surface Currents) introduce dynamic gridded water level and current data, which, when combined with bathymetric data and other navigational layers such as buoys and obstructions, can significantly enhance situational awareness along tidal waterways.
Our work was designed to feed directly into the UK Hydrographic Office (UKHO)’s development of the new International Hydrographic Organization’s standards, which are designed to modernise navigation. Water level and surface current data forecasts were added to the data to enable mariners to plan transits along the tidal Thames and for navigating in real time.
In a sea trial run by the UKHO with the Port of London Authority (PLA), our Thames Estuary forecast model supplied S-104 / S-111-formatted water level and current forecasts for a 100 km stretch of the tidal River Thames, from the outer estuary through to the main approach channels. These data were visualised in the SEAiq portable pilot unit viewer to support pilot passage planning, under-keel clearance assessments and route decisions — illustrating how dynamic tidal and current information could be used alongside traditional chart data.
While the trial used forecast (not live observational) data, the ability to visualise evolving water depths and currents over time shows real potential for extended tidal windows, safer navigation and more efficient port operations.
The S-104 water level data combined with bathymetric data can generate a safety contour that evolves with the tidal heights, so pilots can see in real time how much water depth is available. This allows them to avoid groundings, particularly at tidally restricted locations. Having this information will also enable shipping companies to plan times when they can berth and load cargo more efficiently, providing a significant operational advantage.
With the S-111 surface current data, pilots will also be able to identify favourable routes and take advantage of ebb or flood tide currents, which can help them reduce their fuel consumption and transit times.
Learn more in the UKHO's video about testing the applications of S-104 and S-111 in the sea trial with the Port of London Authority.
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