An unwelcome splurge of speed has infested the waters of Salcombe Estuary according to the Harbour Office.

Throughout the summer season, numerous vessels have been caught speeding throughout Salcombe Harbour creating dangerous situations for themselves and others.However, this has been a frequent occurrence and worry for companies working in Salcombe Harbour this summer with larger vessels exceeding the speed limit.

The highest allowed speed limit in the harbour is eight knots(9mph), but vessels have been stopped after travelling at speeds over 30 knots(35mph).

The effected areas include the estuary right up to Kingsbridge, the ‘Bar’ and the Harbour entrance as well as other cases being recorded in South Pool Creek and Widegates.

These areas have regulated speed limits to allow everyone to enjoy the safety of the harbour no matter what size vessel you are on; breaking these speeds is not only illegal but also reckless behaviour.

Adam Parnell, the Salcombe Harbour Master said: “My team has stopped 35 boats for speeding, and some have been travelling so fast that our patrol boat, which can do in excess of 35 knots, has struggled to catch up.

“We know that this number represents the tip of the iceberg”; they receive numerous calls and emails from members of the public who witness speeding, but unfortunately these reports are frequently received much later which means that it can often be too late to do anything about it.

Assistant Harbour Master, Cameron Sims-Stirling expressed his concern that these speeding vessels are not only speeding but are also: “not even aware of who and what is around them.”

Cllr. Julian Brazil, the Chairman of the Harbour Authority explained his disappointment that many of the vessels the team have stopped are locals: “who should know better.”

This is not just an empty threat as all vessels who were caught speeding were given either a verbal or written warning; in the worst cases they received a formal interview under caution.

Adam highlighted that a lot of people don’t know that speeding is regulated by Harbour Bye-laws: “a breach of which is a prosecutable criminal offence.

“Unlike speeding in a car, which is a civil offence, the helm of a speeding vessel can end up with a criminal record and be fined up to £1000.”

“They don’t realise the damage that their wake is causing behind them. We’ve had reports of paddle-boarders being washed off their boards and smaller vessels capsized.”

To try and stop this, the Harbour Authority is increasing additional speeding patrols at the Bar and in Widegates.

Authorities are especially concerned with the effects that this might have on the perception of Salcombe as a safe harbour; with paddle board companies worried about the safety of their customers.

If anyone witnesses a speeding conviction then they are strongly recommended to report it to the Harbour Office immediately, so that the appropriate action can be taken. This can be done over the phone on 01548 843791 or by tweeting @Salcombeharbour.