Southend PierCanvey IslandThe tide. The estuary drains a long way at low water, leaving mud and sand far out from the shore, so a shoot near the seafront is timed around high water.
The weather. This is open water. Wind against the tide kicks up short, steep waves, so we use boats licensed for these waters, watch the forecast closely and have a fallback plan.
Speed. There is no general speed limit out here beyond keeping to a safe speed, except the 8 knot limit in the inshore area off Southend.
Ships. The deep-water channel carries ships to and from London and its ports, so we film them from where London VTS is happy for us to be.
On the water. Commercial filming on the tidal Thames needs permission from the Port of London Authority, and we apply for it as part of the job.
In the air. London Southend Airport is just inland, and its flight restriction zone reaches parts of the seafront, so drone work there needs the airport’s agreement.
On land. The pier, the seafront and the beaches are run by the council and other owners, so filming on land needs their permission, separate from the water.
Yes, best around high water, when a boat can work close in. At low water the sands stretch far out and we film from further off.
With the right boats and planning, yes. We use boats licensed for open water, watch the forecast and agree a fallback plan before the day.
Parts of the seafront are inside London Southend Airport’s zone, so we check the exact position and get the airport’s agreement where it is needed.
Yes. Away from the 8 knot inshore area, open water gives you room for speed, at a safe distance from other traffic.
