Sandy Bay to Tasman Bridge

  • Deep water harbour and the widest area of the river.
  • High density usage in this section of the river; keep watch for commercial traffic, ferries, rowing craft, and recreational vessels.
  • Observe speed/distance restrictions around the Sullivans Cove area and large commercial vessels.
  • Be aware of special rules when navigating the Tasman Bridge.

Operating in the River Derwent

Tasman Bridge to Bowen Bridge

  • Approximately 4nm between Tasman Bridge and Bowen Bridge.
  • Wide, well-marked section of the river.
  • Regular recreational and commercial traffic, with sailing and rowing vessels also common in the area.
  • Strong winds can funnel in this section of the river, particularly in Northerly and Southerly conditions. 
  • Bowen Bridge has a vertical clearance of 14.6m above highest astronomical tide (HAT) between piers 4 and 5, this is under the lit centre span as indicated on chart 172. 

A greater clearance for masted vessels of up to 17.3m can be had at the South-western span nearest to Dowsings Point. If considering this span, note that the Bridgewater Bridge upstream has a height of 15.2m and if travelling further to New Norfolk, power lines near New Norfolk have a minimum safe clearance of 14.5m.

Bowen Bridge to Bridgewater Bridge

  • Approximately 7nm between Bowen Bridge and Bridgewater Bridges.
  • River narrows and shallows progressively in this section of the river.
  • Large mud flats can be encountered if navigating outside of the main channel.
  • Maintain a careful lookout for navigational marks.
  • Stronger tidal stream in narrower parts of the channel.
  • Stronger wind gusts can be experienced due to topographical influence.
  • Bridgewater Bridge has a vertical clearance of 15.2m at HAT between the main navigation spans, which are lit and marked appropriately.

Bridgewater Bridge to New Norfolk

  • Approximately 9nm between Bridgewater Bridge and New Norfolk Bridge.
  • Now accessible to larger vessels following removal of old bridge.  Maximum air draught at Bridge navigation span HAT 15.2m.
  • Large pilons from the old bridge remain in place but are clearly visible at all water levels and marked appropriately.
  • River becomes narrower with more pronounced bends.
  • Navigation aids clearly mark the channel; keep a proper lookout.
  • Currently uncharted, refer to ‘Çruising Southern Tasmania’ guide, MAST chartlet, or Navionics electronic charts as a guide.
  • Google Earth users may wish to access the Below KMZ file, which provides a track for the section between Bowen Bridge and the Sorell Creek Ski area. The file should not be used for navigation.  <add KMZ>[CS1] 
  • Increased likelihood of floating debris, particularly after rainfall. 
  • Increased current after rainfall and discharge from upstream dams
  • Be aware of designated 5kt zone/ski area from Sorell Creek upstream to New Norfolk Aquatic events and designated ski areas – Marine and Safety Tasmania[CS2] 
  • Keep a proper lookout for other waterway users with large numbers of paddlers/skiers/fishers/swimmers and boating, particularly during summer months around the New Norfolk area.  Maintain a safe distance and adhere to the 5kt speed limit.

Berthing at New Norfolk

Once at New Norfolk, there is limited berthing alongside council pontoon facilities on the southern bank of the Esplanade. There is also a timber jetty on the northern bank just downstream of the bridge, with 3m of water depth. Anchoring is not recommended as the riverbed is scoured to bedrock, resulting in poor holding. Snags formed by river debris settling on the bottom can also be common, which could foul your anchor

Larger vessels

Navigation of larger vessels is not advised beyond the New Norfolk Bridge, as the river narrows and shallows quickly beyond this point.