Please find below information on approaches and recommended navigational transits to Guernsey through the Little Russel. There is also a link to Digimaps AIS to locate and identify vessels around the Channel Islands.
These Charts should be used as guidance only and not be used for navigation. They are no substitute for the latest paper or electronic editions of British Admiralty and Imray Charts.
Guernsey Approaches (North) [647kb] Little Russel Transit & Approaches [492kb] St Peter Port Approaches [579kb]
We recommend you keep a listening watch on VHF Ch.12
Please find below information on navigational awareness through "Lower Heads" South Cardinal Buoy, "Platte Fougere" and "Fourquies" North Cardinal Buoy.
"Lower Heads" South Cardinal Buoy
Cardinal marks indicate the direction of safety as a cardinal (compass) direction (north, east, south or west) relative to the mark. Lower Heads buoy indicates safe water is south of the buoy (as indicated by two downward pointing black arrows) and the danger lies to the north. It's position can be seen on the illustration.
The Lower Heads Buoy is one of four buoys which are solar powered.
"Lower Heads" South Cardinal Buoy [212kb]
"Platte Fougere Lighthouse"
The Platte Fougere Lighthouse marks the northern end of the Little Russel, being the main approach to both St Peter Port and St Sampsons harbours (from that direction). It is one of the most significant lights within Guernsey Ports' responsibility.
It is a red and white sectored light; the red sector covering the Brayes rocks. The current structure was put into service in 1910. The light is LED standard.
Please note, the Platte Fougere foghorn is currently not operational.
"Fourquies" North Cardinal Buoy
Cardinal marks indicate the direction of safety as a cardinal (compass) direction (North, East, South or West) relative to the mark.
The "Fourquies" North cardinal is positioned to the North of the Fourquies reef and indicates to mariners that the danger lies to the South of the buoy. Due to the relatively deep water where the buoy is positioned, mariners should exercise caution in the area as the buoy will move in the tidal stream, particularly at low water. Its position can be seen on the illustration.