At Sherwood Maritime, we conduct comprehensive Navigational Risk Assessments (NRAs) to help ports, harbours, and marine operators ensure safe and efficient navigation within their waters. Our assessments are fully aligned with the PMSC and associated Guide to Good Practice, providing Duty Holders and Harbour Authorities with independent, evidence-based assurance of navigational safety.

Each assessment begins with a clear definition of scope and purpose, whether in support of a new development, a change to marine operations, or a scheduled review of the port’s Marine Safety Management System. We then gather and analyse all relevant data, including traffic patterns, hydrography, tides, weather, pilotage activity, incident records, and stakeholder input.

Working closely with pilots, VTS staff, tug operators, port or facility users, and port or facility management, we identify and evaluate navigational hazards using structured risk methodologies and recognised matrix tools. Each risk is assessed for likelihood and consequence, existing control measures are reviewed, and practical mitigation options are developed to ensure risks are reduced to a level that is As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP).

The outcome is a clear, defensible Navigational Risk Assessment report that supports safe operational decision-making, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement within the port’s Safety Management System.