The Port of London Authority (PLA) has launched a free app to provide everyone with an interest in navigating on the Thames with easy access to the latest information on the tidal river.

The PLA’s first ever app is aimed at making planning trips on the Thames easier.  ‘Must have’ data is available instantly including live tidal data from twelve locations along the 95 mile tidal river and an alerts system for Notices to Mariners, which detail the latest information on events, engineering works and recent changes that users need to be aware of before setting off.

Unveiling the app at the PLA’s latest public meeting at London Rowing Club in Putney, Robin Mortimer, chief executive said: “A number of river users, particularly those involved in sports and recreation, have asked for an app providing easier access to important river navigational information.  We are excited to be launching the app today.   Just go on to the App Store for Apple devices and Google Play for Android devices to get the PLA Tidal Thames App.   This is just the start though – we want to hear what more people want from the next evolution of the app, so now’s the time to try it and tell us what you think.”

The new app includes an events calendar covering planned rowing, sailing and paddling activities. For boaters it provides details of all the mooring locations along the river, including amenities at each location like mains electric, fuel, and pump out facilities, making it easier for visitors to pick moorings to suit their needs.

Bob Baker, PLA chief harbour master said: “We have over a million visits to our website each year as people seek out a variety of navigational information.  The app means that we can offer the essential information instantly in a single location, which I hope will make it safe journey planning simpler.”