MSIB 02-18 Seasonal Ice Procedures Ice Condition 3

The Captain of the Port (COTP), Delaware Bay is notifying mariners that Ice Condition 3 has been set for the Port which includes the Delaware Bay and River, the C&D Canal, Cape May Harbor and Canal, and the ICW. This means that weather conditions are favorable for the formation of ice in navigable waters, but navigation is not impacted by ice. All masters, ship agents, owners, operators of all vessels, marine facilities, and marinas should review and adhere to the following procedures for the Delaware River and C&D Canal:

• When ice is present, but less than 2 inches, vessels must have a propulsion system with adequate horsepower, and be able to maneuver un-assisted through the ice without needing to stop, back off and ram the ice.
• Vessel moorings should be checked frequently to ensure the vessel is adequately moored.
• Vessels at anchor should maintain their engines on standby at all times.
• Vessel sea chests should be checked regularly for ice buildup and precautions should be taken to ensure that the sea chests are kept clear.
• Vessels at anchor should ensure that proper bridge watches are stood at all times.
• The COTP, Delaware Bay may establish additional requirements for specific geographic areas of the COTP Zone if conditions warrant such restrictions.
• The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has imposed a steel hull restrictions on the C&D Canal.

Please refer to our internet website for current ice condition information by visit https://homeport.uscg.mil/ utilizing the Port Directory drop down, select Delaware Bay. Ice condition updates will be located in the Safety Notifications section under Safety Alerts.

Ice condition information can also be obtained by calling our Sector Delaware Bay Ice Line at (215) 271-4995.

If you have any questions regarding the contents of this bulletin or the expectations of the COTP, please contact the Waterways Management staff at (215) 271-4889 or the Situation Unit Controller at (215) 271-4807.



S. E. Anderson
Captain, U.S. Coast Guard
Captain of the Port, Delaware Bay

This release has been issued for public information and notification purposes only.