LOS ANGELES — The Coast Guard advises the public to exercise extreme caution when navigating near Ventura Harbor. A combination of significant shoaling, elevated surf and strong currents are occurring inside and around the harbor due to the effects of several severe weather systems moving through the area. The entrance to the harbor continues to become increasingly dangerous for mariners to navigate.
Significant shoaling has been reported by the Ventura Harbormaster on both sides of the entrance to the harbor. The typical charted water depth is approximately 40 feet and the current reported water depth in the channel of approximately 12 feet at mean low water. There is also significant currents reported inside portions of the entrance to the harbor, between 5 to 10 knots, causing significant shoaling and constant water depth adjustments.
The Coast Guard has implemented a Safety Zone around the Harbor Entrance to ensure the safety of vessels potentially entering an extremely dangerous situation trying to enter Ventura Harbor. When this zone is active the Coast Guard will conduct a broadcast on VHF-FM Channel 16 to alert mariners of the zone and severity of the situation. Mariners are prohibited from transiting through the safety zone encompassing the Ventura Harbor entrance during the zone’s enforcement. Mariners affected by the safety zone should make alternate arrangements for safe mooring, anchoring, and berthing requirements.
The Coast Guard would like to warn boaters of weather and sea conditions that could potentially impact vessel navigation abilities while operating inside and around the harbor. Mariners are advised to contact the local harbormasters, or Coast Guard Sector Los Angeles-Long Beach Command Center on VHF-FM Channel 16 to determine the status, as some portions of the harbor are not safe to transit through or in.
The Coast Guard has issued several broadcast notice to mariners, which can be heard on VHF-FM 16 and will continue to as weather and sea conditions change.
During these weather events, there will be a high risk of strong currents, elevated surf, significant shoaling, consistent and frequent water depth changes and high breaking surf. Caution should be used when in or around the Ventura Harbor.
The Coast Guard encourages all boaters to prepare for the potential hazards and keep advised of weather changes through the National Weather Service and to monitor VHF-FM channel 16 for the most current safety advisories.
The Coast Guard urges mariners to always:
- Stay Informed - The public should be aware of weather conditions and monitor the progress and strength of the storm through local television, radio and internet. Check the current and expected weather and water conditions before heading out, and be aware that weather conditions can quickly change.
- Wear life jackets while on the water.
- File a float plan with friends, family members and local marinas before heading out. The list should include the number of passengers aboard the vessel, destination and expected time of return.
- Always have a working marine-band radio on board.
- Carry marine flares on board the vessel.
- Ensure bilge pumps are operational and vessels are secure for heavy winds and rain.
For more information on boating safety, visit www.uscgboating.org.
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