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Calculate bridge headroom, plus mast height and collision cover
To calculate your clearance, subtract your height above the waterline from the bridge headroom,
plus keep half a metre in reserve.
Calculator
The headroom quoted for a bridge applies at mean water level. It drops when the water is high and rises when the water is low, which is why many bridges have a gauge board showing the current headroom. Under sail it is not the mast that counts but whatever sits highest: the anemometer, the aerial, the radar reflector.
A collision with a bridge is a hull claim on your own boat and a liability claim from the owner of the structure. Together the two can get expensive, because damage to a bridge means closures and expert surveys.
The collision is a matter for comprehensive hull cover, and damage to the structure for the liability section. One thing to keep in mind: if you press on when the headroom is visibly too low, you should expect to be asked about gross negligence.
Frequently asked questions
What counts towards the height above the waterline?
The highest fixed fitting, which means the anemometer, aerial and radar reflector too,
not just the masthead.
Is damage to a bridge insured?
Damage to your own boat under comprehensive hull cover,
damage to the structure under the liability section.
Worked out for your type of boat
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