Yachtsman warned of Sydney Harbour hazard

by Peter Campbell on 25 Nov 2011 The Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron has been advised of a possible underwater hazard in Sydney Harbour near the Sow and Pigs Reef.

NSW Maritime has sent the following message to Harbour Control. Regular warnings are being broadcast:

'….a temporary lit yellow aqua mark is being placed approximately 15 metres to the west of the north cardinal mark at Sow and Pigs Reef. Vessels should not pass between the lit aqua mark and the north cardinal.'

RSYS sailing manager Brian Clayton said today that it appeared there was a previously unknown obstruction in this area which was recently hit by a large yacht, believed to be one of the former America’s Cup yachts, sailing fast under spinnaker.

'I am told there was considerable damage to the yacht,' Clayton said today. 'While it is most likely to affect boats with a keel of 3.5 metres or more, all vessels are advised not to pass between the NSW Maritime mark and the Sow and Pigs North Cardinal mark.'

The RSYS will be conducting club racing on the Harbour tomorrow, including a mini regatta for the International Dragon and Yngling classes, with the Sailing Office emailing all competitors advising them to avoid the area.