A new national organisation formed to develop a nautical neighbourhood watch and improve (security) & safety on Britain’s 7,500 miles of coastline and tidal waterways is to be launched with the support of many of the country’s key seafaring organisations including the RNLI, the Marine Police and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.

Harbour Watch aims to improve security and promote safety for all water users whether they are in a kayak, a fast speedboat or a coded workboat. The idea was inspired by the sterling work of volunteers from Poole Harbour who formed a group to reduce crime and increase safety on the water.

With the aid of one of the largest nautical databases in the world, Harbour Watch provides a safe and secure registry that will ensure owners of craft and vessels can track the complete inventory and history of their boat. If the worst happens and a boat is stolen, the database will help the police to find the rightful owners of recovered property. This in turn will lead to insurance companies being able to
lower premiums due to increased recovery rates.

Membership of Harbour Watch will be free, a simple online registration will give immediate access to the online community, downloads and member discounts. There will also be a network of specialist volunteer patrols to deter crime at the water’s edge. By providing a local point of contact, these volunteers will be an essential part of the maritime community and assist with riverside events and projects.

Chief Executive, Nick Davis explained how the idea will be launched. “We plan to visit over 15 key ports and harbours throughout the UK to promote Harbour Watch as well as attending Boat Shows and trade fairs. The more people who are active on the water and acting as an extra pair of eyes and ears, the more crime will reduce and water safety will increase.”

Peter Hayton, Chairman of Cobbs Quay Berth Holders Association in Poole Harbour was delighted to promote the organisation to his 1000 members. “We have already been involved in our local Harbour Watch and can see massive benefits for the maritime community in rolling this project out nationwide”.

Harbour Watch can be contacted via their website at www.harbourwatch.org.uk