opening bridges via radio

Navigating Bridges

At some point in your boat travels, you may have to request a bridge opening.  If you have never navigated a bridge, you may feel intimidated by the process at first. In order to make your process go smoothly, there are some common procedures you will need to follow. Below are a few tips for dealing with bridges wherever you boat!

Boat Clearance

The very first question you should ask yourself is: “How tall is your boat?”.  When you are planning your trip for the day, you should look on your chart and identify the bridges you have to pass under. Most bridges will have a clearance board, which is a scale posted at water level on the bridge opening that shows a vertical clearance in real time. However, never take a chance with “close”. Keep in mind floods and high tides can diminish the clearance! Once you know your height and the bridge clearance you will be able to determine if the bridge needs to be opened (if it is an opening bridge of course).

Check Bridge Schedules

using vhf radio to open bridges

While you are checking the clearance of each bridge on your course, be sure to check each time schedule. Most bridges open on a set schedule, such as opening on the hour or half-hour. Once you can visually see the bridge you are approaching, call the operator to request an opening via your VHF radio. Do not expect the operator to acknowledge you first. 

Quick tip: Offshoreblue.com is a great resource guide for checking bridges and mile markers!

Requesting a Bridge Opening via VHF Radio

In order to contact the bridge operator, you must know the correct hailing channel for requesting passage. In Florida, bridges monitor Channel 9 and some other states bridge operators monitor channel 13. Before calling in, make sure you double check the name of the bridge you want to pass under. If you mix up the name of the bridge, the operator may not acknowledge you. 

Be Aware of Boat Traffic

For many scheduled-openings, there is boat congestion as boats wait. Once you have requested an opening, be aware of the boats around or behind you. A boat on the other side of the bridge that is coming through with a current pushing it toward the bridge should normally be given the right of way. Tugs should always be given the right of way as well. Try to keep out of the way and communicate with other boats via your VHF radio if needed. (when in doubt, communicate!)

Wait Your Turn

Take your time cruising up to the bridge and keep your distance so you do not get crammed with other boats around you and too close to the un-opened bridge. If you have not contacted the bridge operator yet and they are already opening the bridge, call them once the bridge is already open to request passage. Be sure to wait until the bridge is fully raised before passing through.

 If you request a bridge opening and you can pass safely without needing an opening, you risk a hefty fine!

We hope some of our tips help you on your next boating adventure! If we missed anything important, let us know!