GPS interference increased in water areas — navigation skills and the master's responsibility are emphasised in boating

In the Gulf of Finland area, GPS interference has increased significantly during the early autumn. Traficom hopes to receive reports from boaters of interference observed in any water areas. 

Interference in satellite navigation systems is often observed especially in the vicinity of conflict zones. Interference is typically used to protect one's own infrastructure or important sites, so the interference effect can also spread more widely. For this reason, there may appear more interference on open sea areas than inland, especially in the Eastern part of the Gulf of Finland.

“The radio interference situation in Finnish land and sea areas is unusual compared to a normal situation and as the boating season still continues, boaters must pay additional attention when navigating with different tools. During the autumn, the nights get darker and the chance of fog increases. You should always prepare for interference situations you might encounter while boating. Knowledge of chart-based navigation and observation of the environment and other vessels help to anticipate different situations. This ensures safe and smooth navigation on the waters in situations where GPS positioning is not available,” emphasizes Jarkko Saarimäki, the Director-General of the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency Traficom.

The importance of navigation skills and lights are emphasised during dark hours

The boat’s master is responsible for the safety of the boat and that it is properly equipped. During the dark hours and when visibility is limited, it is also important to remember the importance of lights for safety. In addition, appropriate and up-to-date charts and other safety equipment, such as life jackets, must be provided.

“According to the Water Traffic Act, a plotter is not a primary navigation tool, so you should not place all your trust in only it. You must also be able to read the nautical chart and have sufficient skills to navigate without a plotter in all conditions. Boating training offered by various parties is widely organised in Finland. Every boater should get training to suit their own needs,” reminds Chief Adviser Kimmo Patrakka. 

It is the responsibility of the master of the boat to actively follow and know where they are. Even in familiar waters, conditions can surprise you and change in such a way that it requires a nautical chart. A situation like this can arise when, for example, there is interference that blocks the tracking of the chart plotter. 

Remember to report radio interference to Traficom

You should always notify the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency Traficom of radio interference because the agency investigates radio interferences and compiles interference situation data in Finland. You can fill the radio interference form easily e.g. on your phone straight from the boat or after you have come ashore.