SHETLAND OWNERS ASSOCIATION

I was just wondering if any Shetland 27 owners have been under Osney Bridge? I am aware that there is a rise and fall dependent on rain fall and lock action. We are moored not far from the bridge and have really enjoyed the upper reaches of the Thames in our old, smaller boat. Any advice for transiting the bridge would be welcome.

https://www.riverthames.co.uk/about_thames/3755.htm

If you know the air draft of your boat, this should help as it states 7' 6" at head water. I have a 4+2 which has cockpit screens you can fold down to help with low bridges.
Welcome to the forum! There is a fairly new Thames section which isn't much used yet, but it's not been an easy time for us all.
Cheers, Clive

We used to take our Shetland 27i through a bridge that is lower then Osney Bridge a 7' 3". The limiting factor is the height of the throttle lever - the good news is that if it does hit you will reverse out at high speed!

Seriously though, I recommend that you measure your own boat as they can vary. Ours had the largest inboard engine option, three batteries in the stern locker and a large holding tank.

Thanks for your reply. I’m not sure how to measure the air fraught accurately. Any advice?

Measure the vertical height from the waterline to the highest point on your boat. A long spirit level from your highest point to the edge of the hull and a plumbline will help to get a really accurate measurement.
If you don't have a long spirit level, clear plastic pipe filled with water can give you a level too.