The entrance to Aberystwyth harbour is narrow and bordered by a long stone jetty to the South and a wooden jetty to the North. A treacherous area known as 'The Trap' sits directly out from the wooden jetty on the seaward side. It can often be identified by the presence of surfers. Boats must not be taken across this area at any stage of the tide as the underlying gravel bank can throw up unexpected waves.

The correct passage in and out of the harbour is to take a central position in the channel and proceed straight out to sea for at least half a mile before turning North or South. If this is not possible, due to river traffic, it is safer to move towards the stone-jetty side - but not too close.

The same procedure should be followed when returning to the harbour. It is recommended that boats should stay outside the line of white marker buoys until opposite the stone jetty. Turn to head directly towards the light situated on the end of the stone jetty, when aproximately 50 metres out, turn to head for the centre of the harbour entrance. There are marks on the harbour wall, which will aid your entry. A prominent white post should be kept in line with a white mark painted on the sea wall near the Ystwyth Bridge. This gives a good line for entry into the harbour from the North whilst two yellow and black marker posts give a good line from the south. (Harbour Map).

Boats should return before dusk unless fitted with a single white light that has a 360 degree exposure.

Boats must keep clear of Castle point and Constitution Hill to the North as rocks extend out to sea for at least 100 metres and can cause unexpected sea conditions.

Always be aware of Sarn Cynfelyn. This is a 6-mile long bank that extends out to sea from Wallog and can cause confused seas and swift currents. The 'Patches Buoy' marks the end of this bank.

Rowers and coxes must be aware of tidal flow out at sea. In general there is a tidal flow from South to North during a flooding tide and North to South on an ebbing tide. Coxes are advised to row against the tidal flow (especially if wind and tide are in the same direction) on the out-leg of a training session. (Tidal flow map)