This paper is mainly concerned with the movement of marine traffic in the Upper Bristol Channel, that is the present organization of pilotage services and docking facilities in the area, some of the present difficulties confronting Masters and pilots, and how these difficulties will grow with the increasing size of vessels. This must occur when the Port of Bristol's West Dock opens and would also occur if a new dock were to be constructed at Newport. The conclusion gives outlines of some ideas which have been put forward for providing a segregation and separation of vessels in the area and the possibility of a joint shore-based authority to assist in securing a reasonably safe and economic flow of traffic through the area.