99026 Inshore Traffic Zones

Inshore Traffic Zones
Report No. 99026

With reference to the dangers encountered with crossing traffic in the Straits of Gibraltar, I would point out that the Spanish Authorities are adamant that vessels do not use the Inshore Traffic Zones under any circumstances and that a fine is liable to be imposed on vessels that do. Thus a vessel, for instance, leaving Cadiz, and bound for Algerciras must cross the westbound traffic lane to enter the eastbound lane on the south side of the Strait and then re-cross the westbound traffic to enter Gibraltar Bay. This means that there are two potential risk areas.

The same situation applies off Finisterre where a vessel leaving El Ferrol for Vigo must go right out into the Atlantic (the southbound lane is 30 miles off the coast) crossing the northbound traffic and then back across the northbound stream when clear of the TSS. Once again, there are two possible danger areas, especially in bad weather or poor visibility.