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General EGYPT
GENERAL (See Plan) ABU QIR: 31␥ 19' N 030␥ 04' E (See Plan)
OVERVIEW: Egyptian naval port with facilities for merchant vessels.
LOCATION: The port is located on the west coast of Abu Qir Bay on the
GEO-POLITICAL: Mediterranean coast approximately 20 km. east of Alexandria.
Capital City: Cairo. CHARTS: BA Charts No. 2574 and 2681.
Nationality: (noun) Egyptian, (adjective) Egyptian. ISPS COMPLIANCE: Port is compliant.
Population: 81,713,517. MAX. SIZE: Draft 5.2 m.
PILOTAGE: Compulsory and is available between 0800 – 1800 hrs.
Vessels should call Abu Qir Pilot Station or Abu Qir Port Control 2 hours prior
COMMUNICATIONS: to arrival at the pilot boarding area. Pilot boarding area is centred on position
International Direct Dial Code: 20. Lat. 31␥ 20.0’' N, Long. 30␥ 08.7' E.The Berthing Master/Pilot listens on VHF
Number of Internal Airports: 72. Channel 16 and works on VHF Channel 6.
Major Languages Spoken: Arabic (official), English and French widely PRE-ARRIVAL INFORMATION: Vessels shall forward their initial ETA
understood by educated classes. to the terminal and ship’s Agent at least seven days prior to arrival, with
further confirmation 72 hours and 24 hours prior to arrival. In the initial ETA
message, vessels shall include ship’s name, Master’s and owners names,
ECONOMY: ship’s dimensions and draft, last port of call, position and ETA. When within
Currency: 1 Egyptian Pound (EGP) of 100 Piastres. VHF range vessels should contact the Port Authority/Terminal operator for
Exchange: (as of May 2008) berthing instructions.
US$ 1.00 ␦ EGP 5.35 VHF: Abu Qir Port Control listens on Channel 16 and works on Channel 6.
EGP 1.00 ␦ US$ 0.19 MEDICAL: Facilities available.
Exchange rates under licence from XE.com DRY DOCK: See ‘‘Alexandria’’.
Main Industries: Textiles, food processing, tourism, chemicals, NEAREST AIRPORT: Alexandria International Airport, 40 km.
pharmaceuticals, hydrocarbons, construction, cement, metals and light SHIPMASTER’S REPORT: December 1996.
manufactures. Location: 20 km. east of Alexandria. The port is under naval jurisdiction,
but available to merchant vessels.
ENVIRONMENT: Anchorages: As per Admiralty Sailing Directions No. 49 (1988). For vessels
Territorial Sea: 12 n.m. coming to load ammonia, permitted draft 35 ft.
Other Maritime Claims: Contiguous Zone: 24 n.m. The anchorage for other cargo vessels (bulk, bags and general) is with
Continental Shelf: 200 m depth or to the depth of exploitation. Geziret Disuqi Lighthouse (Nelson’s Island), bearing 135␥ at a distance of
not less than 1.5 miles. The bottom is sand and shingle.
Exclusive Economic Zone: 200 n.m.
Max. Size: Max. draft 22 ft.
Coastline Extent: 2,450 km.
VHF: Pilot on Channels 16 and 6.
Climate: Desert; hot, dry summers with moderate winters. Tugs: Two tugs available.
Natural Resources: Petroleum, natural gas, iron ore, phosphates, Berthing: Length of wharf 200 m.
manganese, limestone, gypsum, talc, asbestos, lead and zinc. Cranes: No shore cranes. Large crane available from Alexandria at 4 days
Natural Hazards: Periodic droughts; frequent earthquakes, flash floods, notice.
landslides; hot, driving windstorm called khamsin occurs in spring; dust Stevedores: Work 24 hours a day.
storms, sandstorms. Density: 1026.
Terrain: Vast desert plateau interrupted by Nile valley and delta. Fresh Water: Available.
Average Temperatures: SHIPMASTER’S REPORT: March 1998.
Month High Low Documents: See ‘‘Alexandria’’.
January 18␥ C 8␥ C Pilotage: Pilotage is compulsory and is available from Egyptian Navy during
June 25␥ C 18␥ C daylight from 0800 – 1800 hrs.
September 33␥ C 19␥ C Pilot boards 1.5 n.m. west of Geziret Disuqi (Nelson’s Island), in position
Lat. 31␥ 21.35' N, Long. 30␥ 04.6' E. Call Abu Qir Port Pilot on VHF
ISPS COMPLIANCE: All Egyptian ports will apply the International Ship Channels 16 or 6, 2 hours before arrival at pilot station.
and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code from 1 July 2004. Anchorages: There is a good anchorage 2.0 n.m. NNW of Geziret Disuqi
All vessels covered by the new code must be in full compliance in order (Nelson’s Island) in depth of about 14.0 – 15.0 m.
to be permitted to call at the country’s ports after this date. Max. Size: The vessel loaded potatoes with her port side alongside (heading
000␥). Max. draft alongside the port was 5.2 m. and not 5.6 m. as declared
by Pilot. It is advisable to check the draft before completion of the cargo
REGULATIONS: Navigational Regulations: The following rules for operations. The bottom is mud and it is not dangerous for the vessel to touch
ships navigating in the Gulf of Suez have been approved by IMO. the bottom, but it is not easy to move away from the berth.
1.1 Ships should take into account that crossing traffic may be
encountered in the traffic junction Eastward of Ain Sukhna and in the Tugs: Three large tugs available.
precautionary area off Ras Shukheir, and should be in a high state Berthing: See ‘‘Max. Size’’.
of readiness to manoeuvre in these areas. Cranes: Stevedores use ship’s cranes. Mobile cranes available.
1.2 Exceptional care is needed, when overtaking another ship within a Medical: Doctor available in the city, 5 minutes by car.
lane, not to enter the separation zone or force the overtaken ship to Available at berth and supplied by Egyptian Navy.
do so. Fresh Water: Repairs: Deck and engine repairs can be arranged from
1.3 Ships navigating in the Gulf of Suez are requested to keep continuous Alexandria.
listening watch on the Suez Gulf Traffic Information Broadcasts and Repatriation: Repatriation can be arranged by Agent.
report any aids to navigation which are malfunctioning or are out of Airport: Alexandria International Airport is 40 km. from Abu Qir.
position and which are not already included in the Suez Gulf Traffic Time: GMT plus 2 hours. GMT plus 3 hours in summertime.
Information Broadcasts. Banks: Available in Abu Qir City.
2.1 All ocean-going ships should have their radar in effective use by day Shore Leave: Possible. Agent makes arrangements with Immigration.
and night throughout the passage between Shaker Island and Suez
Port as an aid to achieving maximum feasible lane conformity and
General: Immigration: Only require Seaman’s Books.
Customs: No spirits allowed out of bond.
avoiding risk of collision. Particular care is required for strict adherence Port: Under the control of Egyptian Navy, so no port plans or approach plans
to the confines of relevant traffic lanes. are available.
2.2 Ships proceeding South from Suez should be alert for tankers heading
for the Sumed Oil Terminal off Ain Sukhna. AUTHORITY: Abu Qir Port Authority, Abu Qir, Egypt. Tel: +20 (3)
2.3 Northbound tankers heading for Sumed Oil Terminal should report 562 1648, 562 1053. FAX: +20 (3) 562 1053. Telex: +91 54310 APA UN.
their intention of using the traffic junction off Ain Sukhna on the Contact: Captain Khaled Abdel Metaal, Harbour Master (Tel: +20 (12)
227 9110).
appropriate frequencies.
2.4 All ships North and Southbound when navigating through the AGENT: Gulf Agency (Egypt) Ltd, 22 Bani El Abbassi Street, Pharanah,
precautionary area off Ras Shukheir or in the vicinity of the July Oilfield Bab Shark, PO Box 85, Alexandria 21111, Egypt. Tel: +20 (3) 484 0256,
should avoid overtaking in the traffic lanes in these areas. 483 2510, (12) 210 7206 (mobile). Fax: +20 (3) 484 8480.
2.5 All ships including service and supply craft serving the oil workings Telex: 55777 GAC UN. Cable: GULFAGENCY, Alexandria.
in July, Ramadan and Morgan Oilfields proceeding in and out of Ras Email: egypt@gacworld.com Web: www.gacworld.com/egypt
Shukheir Oil Terminal, should only cross the South and Northbound
traffic flow through the precautionary area off Ras Shukheir. Within
the precautionary area local rules relating to crossing traffic apply. AIN SUKHNA: 29␥ 32' N 032␥ 24' E (See Plan)
2.6 Tankers leaving the Ras Shukheir Oil Terminal and intending to join
the Northbound traffic lane should only do so when no through Also see Sokhna.
Southbound traffic is in the vicinity and should always report their
movements to other ships beforehand on VHF. OVERVIEW: Ain Sukhna Sea Terminal consists of four sea berths all of
2.7 Ships anchored in the designated waiting area for Ras Shukheir which are single point mooring buoys (SBMs).
should ensure that they are never less than 0.25 miles from the edge LOCATION: In the northern end of the Gulf of Suez.
of the Southbound traffic lane and should pay special regard to their The position of the sea terminal Lat. 29␥ 32' N, Long. 32␥ 24' E
correct light signals for ships at anchor. They should also show their Ain Sukhna Lighthouse position Lat. 29␥ 35.9' N, Long. 32␥ 20.3' E
deck lights. SBMs:
S1: Lat. 29␥ 35' 16" N, Long. 32␥ 23' 35" E
S2: Lat. 29␥ 34' 12" N, Long. 32␥ 22' 42" E
TIME: GMT plus 2 hours in winter (October to May). GMT plus 3 hours in S3: Lat. 29␥ 35' 17" N, Long. 32␥ 22' 16" E
summer (May to October). S4: Lat. 29␥ 34' 12" N, Long. 32␥ 24' 24" E
See guidelines for compiling and submitting information (page xi) 847
EGYPT Ain Sukhna
CHARTS: BA Charts No. 2090 and 2373. a) Immediately upon sailing from loading port/s vessel is to cable, in the
DOCUMENTS: All vessels calling at Ain Sukhna should deliver their manner outlined in ‘‘Radio – ETA’’ the following information:
official documents, as indicated below, directly to SUMED’s Port Authority: i. ETA (GMT) and expected arrival draft at Ain Sukhna, vessels are
Certificates of inoculation against any communicable diseases prevailing requested to arrive even keel.
at the Ports of departure ii. All B/L data and ship’s figures at loading port/s, stating quantity of
Certificate of Registry free water on board after loading.
Civil Liability Certificate (CLC) iii. Whether the vessel loaded on top of slops stating grades of crude
Derat (Exemption) Certificate that were commingled with residues, quantity and API of contents of
Load Line Certificate slop tank/s.
Maritime Declaration of Health iv. If the vessel is loaded with more than one grade of oil, Master is
Safety Construction Certificate requested to confirm ability to unload according to the sequence
Safety Radio Certificate agreed upon with the shipper (vessel’s owner or charterer as the case
1 Valid Vaccination Certificates for all passengers and crew members may be).
Vessel’s official documents, after being reviewed, will be handed to the v. SUMED is to be immediately notified in the case any repairs are
vessel’s Master after discharging and before vessel departs from SUMED’s required that could delay commencement of discharging.
port. vi. Estimated time for unloading the cargo if no restrictions are imposed
Government Officials: ARE officials, such as Customs Director, by shore.
Quarantine Officer and Immigration Officer are stationed at Ain Sukhna. b) On arrival at Ain Sukhna the following written information is to be handed
Should Customs guards be stationed on board vessels whilst moored it is to SUMED’s Mooring Master:
expected that vessels will extend all courtesies to them and/or other officials i. Whether vessel equipped with inert gas system. Vessels arriving with
while on board. gas inerting blankets should, on arrival, depressurise their system
ISPS COMPLIANCE: Port is compliant. sufficiently to allow visual sampling and ullaging of cargo tanks. Upon
completion of ullaging, pressurisation of inerting system shall be
MAX. SIZE: Max. 500,000 d.w.t., min. 70,000 d.w.t. ␾5%, draft not resumed and maintained throughout discharge.
restricted, depth 41.1 m. ii. Whether the vessel has external impressed cathodic protection.
DENSITY: 1038 – 1044. iii. Vessel’s readiness to connect 2␺16 in. ASA 150 hoses.
RESTRICTIONS: iv. The pressure which the vessel expects to maintain at the ship’s rail
Maximum Weather Conditions for Occupying SBMs: The SBMs are and which is required to be a minimum of 100 p.s.i. unless otherwise
designed to accommodate tankers up to the following weather conditions. specifically requested in writing by shore.
Wind velocity (knots) 35 (65 km./hr.) v. Whether vessel requests to perform crude washing and in the
Maximum tidal range 2.0 m. affirmative the relevant check list should be filled in by the Master.
Maximum wave height 3.4 m. See ‘‘Cargo Operations’’.
Maximum surge/seiche conditions 0.5 m. vi. Full names and addresses of owners, managers and charterers of
Current: Surface 2.0 knots the vessel and their Agents in Egypt if any.
Current: Seabed 1.0 knot vii. Whether the tanker’s owners/bareboat charterers are members of a
P&I Club stating name and address of such club, if available.
The above conditions are not relevant to the safety of the ship but to the
safety of the buoys. Consequently the Mooring Master shall have the authority Information from Terminal: The following information will be given to the
to decide whether the ship should remain moored or vacate the buoy due to vessel upon arrival at the anchorage area or when SUMED’s Pilot boards
adverse weather conditions. the vessel:
ARRIVAL: Arrival time will be considered at the time the vessel anchors. i. any expected pre-mooring delays and their likely duration
ii. any special mooring instructions
APPROACHES: Lighthouse: The lighthouse specifications are a white iii. details of any restrictions on discharging rate.
daymark on framework tower 44 m. high over sea level, flashing white every All such restrictions and their duration will be confirmed in writing by
5 secs., range 22 miles. The lighthouse also covers the approaching and SUMED.
departure sectors at 40 m. height and range 15 n.m., occ. green from
260 – 273␥(T), occ. white from 273 – 298␥(T), occ. red from 298 – 306␥(T). VHF: Terminal listens on Channel 16 and works on Channels 78 and 79.
As a reference point, there is a light which is exhibited from a metal structure Mooring Master will direct communications on Channels 78 and 79.
standing close to the seaward side of an old abandoned lighthouse on Ras TUGS: Tug ‘‘Sukhna No. 4’’, 5,000 h.p., with firefighting and anti-pollution
Abou Daraq, flashing white every 2 seconds. equipment, available as required.
Lights: A flashing light, activated by an electric photo-cell switch. Supply Vessels and Tugs: ‘‘Sukhna No. 2’’ 6,000 h.p., with firefighting
Light frequencies are as follows: and anti-pollution equipment, available as required.
SBM No. 1 – Morse Code A Mooring Launches: 6␺500 h.p. mooring launches assist in mooring and
SBM No. 2 – Morse Code B hose operations with firefighting and anti-pollution equipment are available
SBM No. 3 – Morse Code C as required.
SBM No. 4 – Morse Code D
Fog Horn: An acoustic signal with an approximate range of 2 miles. BERTHS: Two buoys for vessels up to 350,000 d.w.t., one large buoy for
vessels up to 500,000 d.w.t. and one small buoy for vessels up to
Radar Reflector: Each buoy is provided with an octahedral radar reflector
constructed in stainless steel with a diameter of 0.5 m. installed on top of the 150,000 d.w.t.
rope guard. The four berths are spaced one from the other so that each has:
Mooring Area Radius: 410 m. for S1 and S2 (accommodates vessels up
PILOTAGE: SUMED’s Mooring Master and his assistant board the tanker to 350,000 d.w.t.); 320 m. for S3 (accommodates vessels up to
2 n.m. SE of Buoy S4.
150,000 d.w.t.); 410 m. for S4 (accommodates vessels up to 500,000 d.w.t.).
Notifications: ETA messages to Pilots should be sent by cable via Manoeuvring Area Radius: For S1, S2 and S4, 1,220 m.; for S3, 915 m.
Alexandria/Port Said Radio on leaving previous port. Cables should be
prefixed ‘‘For urgent delivery send via Telex 54108 or 54033 SUMED UN’’ Water Depth and Draft Limitations:
and be confirmed 72, 48 and 24 hours prior to arrival (day and night berthing S1 and S2: 25.90 m. min. water depth
and operation). Arrival draft should be indicated. 22.86 m. max. draft
S3: 19.81 m. min. water depth
Mooring Master Duties: When the Mooring Master boards he will advise 16.76 m. max. draft
the ship’s Master or officer in charge of the bridge on the approach to the
S4: 41.14 m. min. water depth; max. acceptable draft unlimited.
berth, arrangements for mooring and unmooring, connecting and
disconnecting of the hoses, and all other operations within the berthing area. Minimum Size: 70,000 d.w.t. ␾5% with minimum cargo discharge of
The Mooring Master will submit and receive from the Master all forms, 50,000 metric tons of any one type of crude oil.
documents and papers required, to be filled and signed or received by the Subject to SUMED’s prior approval and acceptance in each case, the buoys
Master. can accommodate vessels larger than those specified above within the
ANCHORAGES: Tankers can anchor to the SE of the buoyfield, 2 n.m. following limits:
SE from Buoy No. 4. Buoy (S2) up to 400,000 d.w.t.
PRATIQUE: Masters are required to notify SUMED immediately by cable Buoy (S3) up to 200,000 d.w.t.
in the manner outlined in ‘‘Pre-Arrival Information’’ in case of any epidemic Maintaining all other length and draft limitations.
diseases or illness on board while the vessel is bound for Ain Sukhna. The Each of the two buoys (S1 and S2) are connected to shore by a submarine
same message is to be conveyed to the terminal as soon as an HF or VHF line 1.22 m. in diameter and approximately 8 km. in length.
contact is established, at least 6 hours prior to arrival. The small buoy is connected to shore by a submarine line 1.06 m. in
Also see ‘‘Documents’’ and ‘‘Pre-Arrival Information’’. diameter and approximately 5 km. in length.
Quarantine Regulations: The rules governing quarantine regulations are Buoy S4 is connected to the shore by a submarine line of 1.24 m. diameter
the same as for Suez. and approximately 9 km. in length.
Also see ‘‘Suez Canal’’. MOORING: Ropes: Buoys No. S1 and S2 are equipped with twin 18 in.
PRE-ARRIVAL INFORMATION: ETA: In order to avoid undue delays circumference nylon ropes each 180 ft. long ending with a 20 ft. chafing chain
it is essential that Masters of vessels proceeding to Ain Sukhna Terminal 2.75 in. diameter. A support buoy is connected to the chain.
advise their ETAs to ‘‘SUMED’’ Alexandria. Tel: +20 (35) 826711, 826704, The port side mooring rope has a 350 ft. polypropylene 10 in. pick-up rope
837337. Fax: +20 (35) 826713. with a 3 ft. soft eye at the end.
The cable to be prefixed quote ‘‘to be conveyed via Telex: 54108 or The starboard side is the same but the pick-up rope is only 150 ft.
54033 SUMED UN Operations Office-Oil Movement’’ unquote. Buoy No. S3 is equipped with a 15 in. diameter grommet 180 ft. long,
ETA notifications to be sent as follows: ending with 20 ft. chafing chain diameter 2.75 in. A support buoy is connected
immediately upon sailing from loading port(s) to the chain, the mooring rope is 350 ft. long polypropylene, 10 in. diameter,
in case of a change in ETA exceeding 6 hours with a 3 ft. soft eye at the end.
72, 48 and 24 hours prior to arrival. Buoy No. S4 is equipped with a 16 in. diameter grommet 180 ft. long,
Confirmation of ETA: An additional contact can be made with the Ain ending with a 20 ft. chafing chain diameter 3.18 in. A support buoy is
Sukhna Terminal on HF 2182 kHz and 4139.5 kHz, 24 hours before arrival. connected to the chain. The mooring rope has 350 ft. long polypropylene,
Moreover, Masters are required to contact the terminal on VHF Channel 10 in. diameter with a 3 ft. soft eye at the end.
16 (or preferably Channels 78 and 79 if available) 6 hours prior to arrival. In case the ship is not equipped with chain stopper, a pair of 12 ft. or 20 ft.
snotters with shackles will be supplied for connecting the chafing chain to
Information from Vessel: All vessels proceeding to discharge at Ain ship’s bollards.
Sukhna are required to convey the following information to SUMED.
848 Readers are encouraged to send updates and additions (page xi)
Ain Sukhna EGYPT
Mooring: Pick-up from the mooring boat: Port derrick with a minimum 10 ton SWL rigged for maximum height and
Two wire rope snotters of 12 ft. or 20 ft. length (to suit tanker bollard load lifting. The derrick shall be guyed to plumb the vessel’s rail-hose bolster
location). bar at the vessel’s manifold.
Weight of 12 ft. – 80 kg. 23 in. diameter If possible, the topping lift of the boom shall be on its own winch. All winches
Weight of 20 ft. – 135 kg. 23.8 in. diameter. shall be tested, drained and in ready running condition.
Two bow shackles 55 tons SWL (weight of shackle ␦ 43 kg.) or two bow Drip trays, sand bags, dispersant and fire fighting equipment in position.
shackles 75 tons SWL (weight of shackle ␦ 68 kg.) for tankers over Tools, gaskets, nylon lifting slings and other equipment will be supplied on
130,000 d.w.t. board from the mooring boat.
Move these items to bow. Equipment to be Onboard Before Berthing: In order to expedite the
Tool box. connection of the hoses the following equipment must be available.
Slip the soft eye of the snotter onto bollard having a good lead to forward 2 polypropylene messenger lines(about 10 in. circumference 500 ft. long)
fairlead. The forward winches should be tested, drained and be in good Sledge hammer
working order. Large crowbar
Ensure that both anchors are secured by stoppers in the hawse pipe. Large marlin spike
Anchors must not be dropped at the berth. Large flashlight
Prepare messenger line, (approximately 10 in. circumference ␺ 500 ft. Adjustable spanner
polypropylene), and pass through the forward fairlead or chain stopper and Bags of sand
lower as directed by Mooring Master, starting at the port side. Manifold on Port Side: Must be used as follows:
The mooring boat will fasten this messenger to the 10 in. ␺ 350 ft. all manifolds to be ready with 16 in. ASA 150 flange
polypropylene pick-up line on the buoy mooring system. hose derrick rigged
Upon the Mooring Master’s signal, heave away until the chafing chain is derrick fall fitted with cargo hook 10 ton SWL
in the fairlead or Panama lead with the support buoy close outside. heaving line
Shackle the free end of the wire snotter to the open end link of the chafing 2␺1-1-2 ton pullers
chain. copper hammer
Ease back on the pick-up line until the weight falls on the bollard wire nylon lifting slings
snotter. CARGO OPERATIONS: Terminal Design: The design of the
Should the vessel have a Smit-type towing bracket, release the pin, install discharging terminal is based on the following flow rates with crude oil
the open link and lead the pick-up so that the end link of chain is directly characteristics as follows:
fastened to the open link with the bow shackle. If the ship is equipped with
Viscosity ␦ 17 cst
chain stopper, pass the ship’s messenger and buoy pick-up rope through the
Specific gravity ␦ 0.867 kg/cu.cm.
chain stopper and heave away until you can lock one of the big opened links
SBMs No. 1, 2 & 4 Max. 12,500 tonnes/hr. 200 p.s.i.
(the vertical one).
Min. 7,400 tonnes/hr. 100 p.s.i.
Same procedure will be adopted to the starboard polypropylene pick-up
SBMs No. 3 Max. 7,400 tonnes/hr. 120 p.s.i.
rope of 150 ft. length connected to the buoy mooring system.
Min. 5,900 tonnes/hr. 100 p.s.i.
Mooring Sequence: Prompt Berthing: SUMED will make every effort to
moor ships arriving according to agreed schedules as promptly as operational Notice of Readiness (NOR): To be tendered when vessel arrives at Ain
circumstances permit. Sukhna anchorage area provided that vessel is ready in all respects to unload
Cargo Operations: Vessel moored to the SBMs must limit their stay to the her cargo. NOR will be accepted according to SUMED’s agreement with the
allowed berth occupancy time stipulated in the transportation agreement relevant shipper.
between SUMED and the relevant shipper. Inert Gas System: Vessels equipped with inert gas system are to
Unless vessel sizes are otherwise classified in the said agreement, the depressurise tanks before berthing in order to allow for sampling and ullaging
allowed berth occupancy time is as follows: upon arrival and after completion of discharge to check remainders on board.
Size Buoy Occupancy Lay-Time
Pressurisation of inerting system should be resumed as soon as ullaging and
tonnes hours hours
sampling are completed and throughout the discharge.
More than 320,000 52 62
250,000 to 320,000 42 52 Crude Oil Washing (COW): COW is usually acceptable if the ship can
200,000 to 250,000 36 46 maintain an average flow rate of no less than 7,400 tonnes/hr. (100 p.s.i. at
Less than 200,000 28 38 ship’s rail throughout discharging). However, COW is subject to the terminal’s
approval depending on both operational circumstance and if this operation
Delay Due to Weather: In the event that berthing delayed on account of has been previously carried out by the vessel.
adverse weather conditions the vessels will maintain their position in line. When vessel requests permission to perform COW the Master must
Port Closure: Should vessels be requested to vacate the berth on account respond in writing to the Crude Oil Wash Check-off List.
of adverse weather conditions closing the port, they shall keep in contact by COW of slop tank is prohibited.
VHF with the terminal in order to be readily available for re-entry as soon as
the terminal so requires, after weather conditions permit.
Crude Oil Wash – Check List: Vessels requesting permission to
perform crude oil wash while unloading at Ain Sukhna are requested to
Port Re-opening: When the port is re-opened discharging will recommence
according to the firm schedules agreed upon with SUMED’s shippers. respond to the following check list:
⌻ Inert gas system is fully operational and tested.
Vessel Refusal: SUMED reserves the right to decline to berth a specific ⌻ Each tank will be positively pressurised and method of recording
vessel should it consider that such vessel’s condition or facilities are unsafe.
pressure will be available.
Unmooring: Take the weight of the moorings on the pick-up starting with ⌻ Each tank will be kept below 8% oxygen before and during operation.
the starboard side first, using windlass. Unshackle the wire snotter (or unpin ⌻ Inert gas system flue gas oxygen content will be continuously
the Smit brackets) or unlock the chain stopper. monitored and maintained below 8% oxygen.
Slack the pick-up until the support buoy is in the water. Pay out the pick-up
⌻ Oxygen alarm in cargo control room set to give visual indication when
line (as ship clears from the berth). Return the wire snotters, bow shackles
to abort crude washing.
and tool box to mooring boat prior to Mooring Master’s departure.
The tug and mooring launches will be in attendance. ⌻ Pressures in cargo tanks are available to vessel’s control room
personnel.
HOSES: SBMs No. 1, 2 and 4 have twin crude floating hose strings each ⌻ Washing systems have permanent steel pipework and will be pressure
307.2 m. in overall length consisting of: tested to 10 – 15 p.s.i. above expected working pressure but to
22 hoses 24 in. ␺ 35 ft. minimum of 150 p.s.i. prior to use.
1 hose 24/20 in. ␺ 35 ft. ⌻ All tank openings are sealed and remote tank gauging system is
1 hose 20/16 in. ␺ 35 ft. operational.
3 hoses 16 in. ␺ 35 ft.
⌻ All necessary throttling of discharge for crude spraying will be done
1 hose 16 in. ␺ 30 ft.
on vessel’s valves.
SBM No. 3 has twin crude floating hose strings each 274.25 m. in overall ⌻ There is a responsible designate person in charge of operation (give
length. name).
Each consists of: ⌻ Effective communication will be maintained between vessel and
21 hoses 20 in. ␺ 35 ft. shore.
1 hose 20/16 in. ␺ 35 ft. ⌻ Water will not intrude into the crude wash cycle.
3 hoses 16 in. ␺ 35 ft. ⌻ Washing to be commingled and discharged at the same time with the
1 hose 16 in. ␺ 30 ft. rest of the cargo.
All tail hoses are 40 cm. in diameter and the gear attached to each of the ⌻ Previous crude wash experience of key personnel is (list).
40 cm. crude oil hose tails consists of a lifting eye, butterfly valve, spool piece ⌻ Tanks crude washed last two voyages are (list).
with camlock and light weight blind flange. ⌻ Any additional vessel requirements or comments.
The camlock is suitable only for connections with tanker manifold flange Emergency Communication: If ship-to-shore communication fails the
of 40 cm. ASA 150. ship’s whistle shall be sounded continuously. Discharging shall be
Quick-Release Safety Couplings: Quick camlock couplings are immediately stopped and will not be resumed until communications have
connected at each hose end and they will be used as follows: been re-established.
In case of emergency the butterfly valve shall be immediately closed and Overside Lighting: During night discharging sufficient overside lighting
the camlock coupling immediately disconnected. must be provided to readily detect any oil spill so that immediate appropriate
Safety breakaway coupling: To part the hose and block each part to avoid action may be taken.
leakage caused by: International Code of Signals: During discharging operations the
a) excessive pulling stress on the hoses following signals shall be displayed:
b) excessive back pressure in the hoses. By Day: The International Code flag B
Hose Connecting and Disconnecting: The connecting and By Night: A red light visible all round the horizon for distance of at least
disconnecting of cargo hoses shall be performed by the crew of the vessel 2 miles.
under instructions from SUMED’s Mooring Master.
Preparations: The tanker crew are required to lift 2␺16 in. crude hose Discharge Procedures: Upon being informed by the vessel’s Master or
strings and connect them to the vessel’s port side manifold. responsible officer that the vessel is ready to start discharging, the Mooring
To avoid delays the following items should be prepared prior to berthing, Master will contact the Terminal Control Room to co-ordinate the
otherwise the vessel will not be considered ready to discharge. commencement of discharge in accordance with the terminal’s instructions.
2␺16 in. ASA 150 flange connections in position on selected lines for The control room operator will normally give a standby warning by VHF
discharging crude oil. approximately 10 minutes before the shore tanks are ready to receive cargo.
EGYPT Ain Sukhna
When the request to commence discharging is received the Mooring Master Waves: The estimated characteristics of the 100 year extreme waves are:
will ensure that discharging commences at slow speed. This starting Maximum height: 12.0 ft. (3.7 m.)
procedure will always be adhered to. Maximum crest elevation: 11.0 ft. (3.3 m.)
Discharging will commence utilising one pump only with circulating system Period: 7.5 secs.
and when it has been confirmed that there is no significant rise in pressure Length: 280 ft. (85 m.)
on the discharging line which could indicate a blocked or closed valve on Speed: 22 knots (41 km./hr.)
the shore or ship’s discharging system, the crude oil will be discharged at Direction from: North
the steady operating flow previously agreed upon.
Should there be any significant rise in pressure, discharging must be Tidal Streams: At Ain Sukhna the tidal streams set parallel to the coast
immediately stopped. The ship will be advised to check the on-board systems, line northwards on the flood tide and parallel to the coast southwards on the
take any necessary remedial steps and inform the terminal’s control room. ebb tide. Maximum rate is 0.5 knots (0.9 km./hr.) at the surface.
Should the Master be requested to increase or decrease the cargo Currents: There is no fixed current in this area and any flow is caused
discharging rate this should be promptly implemented provided the vessel’s entirely by the prevailing tidal stream and winds.
pumps are capable of an increased rate. Sea Temperature: The surface temperature of the sea ranges between
SUMED may allow vessels to simultaneously ballast while unloading 66␥F (19␥C) in February and 80␥F (26.7␥C) in August.
provided they are equipped to properly segregate the ballast and avoid any
possible commingling with the cargo. Pumping ballast water into the sealine CONSULS: Consular or diplomatic representatives for most maritime
is strictly prohibited. nations are in Cairo.
Any suspension and subsequent resumption of discharging of cargo must NEAREST AIRPORT: Cairo International Airport.
be logged both ashore and in the Tanker Time Sheet. SHORE LEAVE: There is no shore leave for personnel of vessels whilst
All events regarding mooring, commencement, termination of unloading, at terminal.
stoppages, if any, and unmooring are both logged and recorded ashore at REPATRIATION: Crew changes are only permitted via ship’s Agent.
the terminal’s control room as and when they are received from the Mooring
Master. SEAMAN’S CLUBS: None.
These events shall jointly be logged in the Tanker Time Sheet by the GENERAL: Helicopters (Available in Emergencies): Should the
vessel’s Master and SUMED’s Mooring Master. services of a helicopter be required by SUMED for any purposes whatsoever
Vacating Berth: Vessels shall vacate berth immediately after disconnection the vessel will be given a minimum of 30 minutes’ warning notice before the
of hoses. helicopter’s approach in order that cargo operations can be stopped and all
Emergency Shut-Down: In case of emergency such as fire, sudden tanks and vents closed.
deterioration of sea and weather conditions, failure in ship to shore A responsible officer should be on deck to assist the helicopter in making
communications, etc, the discharging operations must be immediately the approach to the vessel. Although the safety of the helicopter remains at
suspended at the request of the Mooring Master. The ship’s discharging all times the responsibility of its pilot, helicopter services shall not be
pumps must be stopped immediately, the butterfly valves of the floating hoses employed in any event without the express prior consent of Shipper and
and the manifold valves must be closed. vessel’s Master.
Depending upon the reasons causing the emergency, the ship’s Master AUTHORITY: Ain Sukhna Terminal, Sumed, Suez, Egypt. Tel: +20 (62)
and Mooring Master will decide whether or not to disconnect the hoses and 221918. Contact: Captain Sherif A. Steit, Ain Sukhna Marine Manager.
vacate the berth. In case of dispute the final decision will be taken by the Operator: Arab Petroleum Pipelines Co, PO Box 158, 431 El Geish Avenue,
Mooring Master. Al Saraya, Alexandria, Egypt. Tel: +20 (62) 337940, 221918. Fax: +20 (62)
Sampling: Representative samples of the cargo will be taken either from 337940. Telex: 54033, 54108 SUMED UN. Email: marind@sumed.org
the vessel’s cargo tanks or from the online automatic samplers. Contact: Captain A Sultan, Sumed Marine Manager.
The samples will be divided into three equal portions of about one gallon
each, one portion will be handed to the quality control laboratory, the second
to the ship’s Master (sealed by SUMED) and the third retained by SUMED
for 60 days (sealed by the Master). ALEXANDRIA, including El Dekheila:
The ship’s Master will sign a receipt on receiving the ship’s sealed and 31␥ 09' N 029␥ 53' E (See Plan)
stamped container of the sample.
WASTE DISPOSAL: Not available. DOCUMENTS:
SLOPS DISPOSAL: Not available. 4 Crew Lists
MEDICAL: Neither medical nor hospital facilities are provided by SUMED. Complete set of Manifests covering all cargo on board showing names
In case urgent medical assistance is required the vessel should contact of Shippers and Consignees
SUMED’s Harbour Master by VHF radio. Private doctors and facilities are 4 Lists of Passengers in Transit
available at Suez via ship’s Agent. Landing cards for passengers landing finally in ARE and for those
CHANDLERY: Stores and supplies cannot be delivered to vessels at the landing in ARE in transit
Ain Sukhna anchorage area. 4 Lists of passengers finally landing in ARE (if any) together with their
REPAIRS: Masters of vessels discharging at Ain Sukhna Terminal are addresses in ARE
instructed that under no circumstances may engines be shutdown for repairs Deck log books showing date of last call at a ARE port, completed up
whilst their vessel is moored to the SBMs. There are no facilities at Ain Sukhna to the time of arrival.
Terminal for repairs. Repair facilities are available at Suez. For Quarantine: Quarantine Questionnaire in duplicate (Form No. 15 Q.A.)
It is emphasised that all vessels at the SBMs must be prepared to clear showing all ports of call, as well as dates of sailings for the last 30 days,
immediately on instructions from the Mooring Master. nature of cargo on board, destination, as well as sickness among crew or
Navigation: When entering, manoeuvring or leaving the Port Limits of Ain passengers, if any, specially when it is presumed that the sick will be
Sukhna, the Master shall conform with the conditions set forth in this Manual hospitalised. These forms can be filled on arrival if not available on board
and shall adhere to the 1972 International Regulations for Preventing before arrival.
Collisions at Sea which will be complied with at all times. Clearance from Last Port
The Master guarantees that his vessel fulfils all navigational and worthiness 1 Crew List
conditions in particular those required for vessels carrying dangerous cargo, Derat (Exemption) Certificate (should be handy for inspection)
(crude oil) in accordance with the provisions set forth in the Appendix for 1 Passenger List.
vessels carrying dangerous cargo annexed to Rules of Navigation of the For Immigration Officer:
Suez Canal Authority to the extent that such provisions are applicable. 1 Arrival Immigration Form, duly completed
Master should submit the respective certificates and declarations whenever Crew List
required in this respect. List of Passengers Finally Landing, in duplicate
Ship’s Readiness: This terminal is an open roadstead and therefore, during 1 Passenger List
the time a ship is moored, the engines must be ready with full power for Valid passport with entry visa is required for landing in ARE for passengers
immediate use. landing. Emergency visa can be granted on arrival if so required.
Vessels at berths must clear immediately upon advice of the Mooring For Customs Use:
Master or as directed by SUMED’s terminal superintendent. Ship’s personnel Bonded Stores List, in duplicate
should be at their respective stations at all times during mooring, unmooring Crew List and Passenger List in duplicate.
and cargo transfer operations. Also see ‘‘ISPS Compliance’’ and ‘‘Radio Officer’s Report’’ dated
REGULATIONS: Unauthorised Craft: The presence of unauthorised October 1999.
craft alongside is extremely hazardous.
SUMED prohibits the boarding of individuals other than those authorised ISPS COMPLIANCE: Port is compliant.
to do so in the bona fide conduct of the vessel’s operation. No unauthorised PFSO: Port Security Coordinator. Hussein Kamel, Alexandria Port Authority
person is allowed to board the vessel whether at anchorage or while moored. Security General Manager. Tel: +20 (3) 483 2611, ext. 2529.
Contraband: SUMED prohibits unauthorised craft from coming alongside Alexandria Port Authority Operation Centre, Gate 27, working throughout
vessels. To avoid the possibility of undesirable items getting aboard vessels, 24 hours. Tel: +20 (3) 483 7168, 483 7153, ext. 1059 and 1069. Fax: +20 (3)
it is requested that Masters discourage craft coming alongside whilst the 480 7988.
vessel is in the terminal. Port Security Coordinator. Tel: +20 (3) 483 7161, 483 7162, 483 7163,
WEATHER/TIDES: Climate: The climate in the Ain Sukhna area is 483 7165, ext. 1900.
generally good. Summers are hot and dry and winters are relatively cool. MAX. SIZE: Draft 9.75 m.
The visibility is usually excellent with few sand storms and infrequent fog. Gas: LOA 122 m., draft 8.53 m.
Sub-zero temperatures are unknown and there are very few rain squalls. Tankers: LOA 213 m., draft 10.66 m.
Summary of Weather Statistics (1884 – 1967): El Dekheila: 160,000 d.w.t., draft 8.0 m.
Average rainfall year: 0.8 in. Tankers: 50,000 d.w.t., LOA 230 m., draft 12.2 m.
Mean maximum temperature: 84␥F (29␥C) Also see ‘‘Agent’s Report’’ dated May 2001.
Mean minimum temperature: 62␥F (16.7␥C) RESTRICTIONS: Entrance channels 13.0 m. depth ␺ 220 m. width and
Extreme maximum temperature: 111␥F (44␥C) 9.14 m. depth ␺ 91.4 m. width. Arriving vessels should keep 50 n.m. offshore
Extreme minimum temperature: 35␥F (1.7␥C) between sunset and sunrise.
Average relative humidity: 60%
PILOTAGE: Compulsory. Pilot boards off harbour entrance. International
Winds: The prevailing winds at Ain Sukhna are from the NW throughout the code signals used.
year. Vessels are not to proceed from the waiting area (Lat. 31␥ 12.6' N,
Tidal Range: The tidal range is up to a maximum of 2.25 m. Long. 29␥ 44.5' E with radius of 1.5 miles) without a Pilot onboard.
Alexandria EGYPT
ANCHORAGES: Alexandria Inner Anchorage in western port can FRESH WATER: Available by barge, and alongside most quays.
accommodate vessels up to: FUEL: Available by barge.
Length 229 m. (750 ft.), draft 38 ft. REPAIRS:
Such vessels can discharge into barges on condition that kind of cargo is
allowed to be unloaded into barges instead of at berth. Alexandria Shipyard: Builds vessels up to 40,000 tons. One dry dock
capacity 85,000 d.w.t., cranes with up to 30 tons capacity. One dry dock
PRATIQUE: On entering, vessels must hoist the International Quarantine capacity 20,000 d.w.t., cranes with capacity up to 30 tons. Fully equipped
Signal for compulsory quarantine. Any sickness must be reported to the engineering workshops capable of carrying out extensive repairs alongside
doctor. The Quarantine Doctor meets ships whilst entering the port and ships quays length 1,200 m. Depth alongside 11 m.
are boarded in turn.
In the event of a vessel arriving from a port that has been internationally
Alexandria Ship Repair Co: Ship repairs including engine repairs and
boiler repair. Fully equipped workshops.
declared infectious and the incubation period has not yet expired at the time
of the ship’s arrival at an ARE port, the vessel is put under compulsory The Egyptian Shipbuilding and Repairs Co: Floating dock for ships up
quarantine, moored at an isolated berth and no shore contact is allowed. to 12,000 d.w.t. 100 ton floating crane. All types of hull and machinery repairs
Nevertheless the ship can still carry out her normal operations on condition possible.
that all shore personnel are holding valid vaccination and/or inoculation LOCAL HOLIDAYS: See ‘‘Suez Canal’’.
certificates issued by the Quarantine Administration. The ship’s personnel SEAMAN’S CLUBS: Seaman’s Club situated at Sidi-el-Metwally.
should also carry International Vaccination and/or Inoculation Certificates. DEVELOPMENTS: Control tower with radar and VHF being constructed.
Final landing passengers, not carrying such certificates, will be landed under Also see ‘‘Report’’ dated 1998.
quarantine supervision and will be kept isolated at the lazarette until SHIPMASTER’S REPORT: October 1987.
incubation period is over.
Pratique may be granted prior to ship’s arrival provided the following Documents:
conditions are adhered to: 12 Crew Lists.
(1) The vessel must be a regular liner known to the Quarantine Authorities 2 Crew Declarations.
and have a doctor on board. 2 Manifests (Ship’s Stores, Bonded Stores, Currency, etc.).
(2) Details shown on the Quarantine Statement should be wirelessed to 1 Health Declaration.
the Quarantine Authorities 24 hours prior to ship’s arrival. 8 Cargo Manifests.
(3) Masters of vessels must declare before their arrival any accidents, All Passports.
which might have taken place on board prior to the arrival in port. Vaccination Certificates.
(4) The ship must not have called at any infected port. Port Health Officials board on arrival.
Immigration boarded with the Security Police about 3 hours after arrival.
VHF: Harbour on Channel 16. They require all passports and issue shore passes. Prior to departure they
TUGS: Five tugs available up to 1,200 h.p. again check all passports and collect all shore passes.
The Security Police seal the radio room.
BERTHS: Customs Officers boarded 24 hours after arrival. They sealed the bond and
Berths Total Length Depth Cargo Handled left the beer room open.
No. (m.) (m.) Clearance on departure is given by Agent and endorsed by Immigration.
5-1, 5-2, 5-3, 5-4, 3,146 5.0 – 10.0 General cargo Pilot sights Clearance before departure.
9-14, 24-28, 30,
34-44 Pilotage: Vessels always take 2 pilots. One for Great Pass and one for Inner
86 137 5 Live stock Harbour (Berthing). Great Pass Pilot boards about 1 mile W.N.W. of Great
49, 51, 53, 54 720 12 Container terminal Pass Beacon from large launch with blue hull and white superstructure
71 (back) 30 10 Molasses (ex-naval craft).
45-47 310 10 Military Berthing Pilot boards inside Outer Breakwater near the Petroleum Harbour,
16, 18, 20, 22 798 9.5 – 10.0 Passenger or off New El Dekheila Mineral Jetty. On departure, Pilot leaves at the same
61-64 445.6 9.5 – 10.0 Coal position.
65, 66 256 8.5 Fertiliser The Quarantine Flag (Q) and Pilot Flag (H) must be displayed.
82, 84, 85 113.9 9.5 – 10.0 Grain Great Pass Pilot leaves at Great Pass Beacon. No night pilotage for
67, 55-56 410 8.5 – 11.0 Cement silos tankers. Pilots operate in winds up to about Force 6, although swell is the
87-1, 87-2, 87-3, 762 10.0 – 12.0 Petroleum important criteria.
87-4, 87-5 Approaches: The coast is low and featureless. Ras El Tin Lt. observed at
71, 72, 81 835 9.0 – 12.0 Timber 20 miles. El Agami Island and El Atta Fort observed on radar at 30 miles.
69, 70 Repairs Channel: Depths are as charted. The navigation marks are poor, buoys
either out of position or unlit, Great Pass Beacon destroyed.
Total berth length available is 7,963.69 m.
The new channel of 20 m. depth to El Dekheila Mineral Berth is reported
Refrigerated store with capacity of 6,000 tons.
by pilots to lie 153␥, commencing just west of Great Pass Beacon to
Ro-Ro facilities available.
Cement to silos and bagged in heavy cloth (no paper bags permitted). 31␥ 09.20' N., 29␥ 48.85' E.
Coal: 4␺25 ton cranes. Rate 10,000 tonnes per day. Anchorage: As per BA Chart No. 243 Waiting Area. Very exposed, in Winter
months, can be untenable due to wind and heavy swells.
Cranes: Capacity 5 – 50 tons. Floating cranes of 70 tons, 100 tons and Dependent on density of ships, most small vessels anchor in SW corner
120 tons capacity.
of Waiting Area. Vessels can approach coast at night, no restrictions advised.
Grain: Two silos, 1␺48,000 tonnes and 1␺100,000 tonnes. Depth alongside
10.0 m. Max. size 40,000 d.w.t. We tried to contact Port Control on VHF Channel 16 at 0300 hrs. without
El Dekheila: Located 7 km. west of Alexandria and managed by Alexandria success, so sent telex on anchoring. We had previously advised Port
Port Authority. Authority by telex of approach course and speed and ETA at Waiting Area.
Industrial Port: Access channel: Length 3.5 km. and depth 20.0 m. Turning Only 2 ships waiting at anchor on this visit.
circle: 750 m. diameter and 20.0 depth. Approach channel: Width 250 m., VHF: Channel 16 seems to be used for all Pilot and Port operations. It is
depth 20.0 m. One jetty (two berths). Length 640 m. Depth alongside: Inner difficult to raise Pilots/Port Control at night or before 0600 hrs. Port Authority
Berth 16.0 m. Outer Berth 20.0 m. Max. size: 60,000 d.w.t. and 160,000 d.w.t. has telex which is useful - 54310 APA UN.
respectively, max. draft 18.0 m. An additional berth to handle vessels up to
250,000 d.w.t. may be constructed later. 2␺30 ton capacity grab cranes and Tugs: Eight tugs of 2,500 h.p. available.
two belt conveyors for handling iron ore pellet at 1,000 t.p.h. each (average Port Regulations: Up to 270 ft. no tugs required. 270 – 400 ft., 1 tug
daily 11,000 tons) (900 t.p.h. for coal). required. Over 400 ft., 2 tugs required.
Commercial Port: Access channel 1.2 km. in length is a branch off the access For Petroleum Harbour we had one tug fast forward, using ship’s line,
channel to the industrial port. Depth of channel 14.0 m. Width 210 – 150 m. entering and leaving. Tugs are well handled.
Commercial port will have over 1,500 m. of berthing space with 15.0 m. of Berthing: Butane for EGCP discharged at Berths No. 1 and 2 on Quarantine
water alongside. Cargoes to be handled will include containers, general Breakwater in Petroleum Harbour.
cargo, timber, chemicals and Ro-Ro vessels. Both berths in a poor state of repair, fendering also poor. Vessel berthed
Available: 300 m. of berthing space with depth 15.0 m. and max. draft 13.0 m. port side alongside. Starboard anchor let go to 2 shackles approaching berth
Also see ‘‘Bulk Facilities’’ and ‘‘Agent’s Report’’ dated May 2001. which keeps bow off forward landing (see BA Chart No. 3119).
BULK FACILITIES: See ‘‘Agent’s Report’’. Moorings: 3 head lines, 2 stern lines, 2 stern back springs and 2 head back
springs from after end of main deck. This seems to work with no hull contact
CONTAINER FACILITIES: 3␺32 tonne container gantry cranes, with unfendered concrete.
2␺32 tonne transtainers and 4␺42 tonne forklifts. Berths exposed to NW winds. Ship’s gangway used. Petroleum Harbour
Also see ‘‘Berths’’. can take up to 750 ft. length and 11 m. draft. (Re-checked several times as
TANKER FACILITIES: Petroleum Basin: in west part of Outer Harbour, Echo sounder and chart indicate considerably more water. With easterly wind
Berths No. 3 and 4, depth alongside 11.58 m., max. length 213.4 m., draft depth can fall about 1.0 m.)
10.66 m. Berths as per BA Chart No. 3119, Berth No. 3 (Product Pier), vessels berth
Berths No. 3 and 4: in east part of Outer Harbour. Stern to moorings. head in. Berths Nos. 4 and 5 (Crude Oil), vessels berth head out. Berths
It has been reported that tankers are required to take on ballast in excess No. 85, 86 & 87 now flat faced to make stockyard for cattle ships, also used
of that deemed to be necessary by the Master, even in fine weather. One to load oil products from road tankers.
Master was ordered to bring his forward draft to 6.4 m. Once the vessel was In Outer Harbour area 10 m. is generally the maximum draft, and Pilots
alongside, a charge was made for deballasting the vessel. report channel dredged to 13.4 m. and water as charted elsewhere. Pilots
Also see ‘‘Berths’’ and ‘‘Agent’s Report’’ dated May 2001. report greater draft handled at Container Quay (Lat. 31␥ 10.3' N,
LPG/LNG FACILITIES: Max. LOA 122 m. Max. draft 8.53 m. Long. 29␥ 51.9' E).
WASTE DISPOSAL: Drums are provided alongside and are collected New LPG (Ethylene) Sea Island in position Lat. 31␥ 08.9' N,
every morning by Port Authority. Contact Alexandria Port Authority. Long. 29␥ 49.13'E. Berthing on west side of island, head out starboardside
Tel: 800100. to.
SLOPS DISPOSAL: Three barges are available for waste oil disposal One Pilot stays onboard throughout stay at island with 1 tug on standby
of 4 tons, 25 tons and 250 tons capacity. Charges are U.S.$ 10/ton. Contact nearby.
Marine Services Department of Alexandria Port Authority. Mineral Pier at El Dekheila now in full operation with berthing on west face,
Tel: 800100/807335. port side too, head in. Pilots report 20 m. depth alongside. So far, vessels
MEDICAL: All facilities available. International Vaccination Certificates up to 110,000 d.w.t. handled, for iron ore and coal serving new steel mill
required. nearby.
EGYPT Alexandria
Cargo Handling: Ambient temperature. Butane discharged for domestic Potable fresh water available: Yes, by shore line
use at Berths No. 1 and 2 into 3␺3,600 cu.m. and 4␺1,000 cu.m. pressure Formerly known as: Alias Mina Iskandriya
tanks situated 4 km. from berths. 6 in. line 300 ASA coupling. Rubber hose, Dock access by vehicle permitted: Yes
ship’s derrick required. Is bunkering permitted alongside?: Yes, by barges
Maximum back pressure of 10 Bar allowed. With 5 pumps we reached Owner/Operator of elevator: Alexandria Port Authority
8.5 Bar. With 2 pumps and a booster pump we again reached 8.5 Bar. REPORT: April 1998.
No surveyor as such, receiver’s representative is very particular over gauge El Dekheila: 2 Grain Terminals under construction for vessels up to
readings and checking sample cocks for liquid on completion. 80,000 tonnes d.w.t. Facilities include storage for 120,000 tonnes and
Density in air differed substantially when compared with Bill of Lading in 2 unloaders with 1,400 t.p.h. capacity. Completion expected mid-1998.
vacuum. RADIO OFFICER’S REPORT: October 1999.
Generally maximum size of vessel handled is 3,000 cu.m. LPG imports for Vessel: Car carrier, 12,000 d.w.t.
domestic use will probably stop next year when natural gas comes on stream. Cargo: Motor vehicles.
At present, there is one shipment every 10 days, mainly from Augusta, Sicily. Documents: The following documents are to be prepared prior to calling at
VHF Channel 6 used to contact EGCP and Channel 74 for Petrogas, both the port of Alexandria:
are butane receivers. Quarantine:
One receiver’s representative onboard throughout, cabin required. 1 Maritime Declaration of Health (Egyptian form).
At LPG (ethylene) Sea Island the maximum size of vessel so far handled 1 Crew List.
is 2,600 cu.m. Believe product heated to minus 60␥C. on platform before 1 Vaccination List.
pumping to Chemical Plant about 1.5 km. onshore, through undersea 1 Provisions List.
pipeline. Sea Island opened in June 1987. I believe it is taking in feedstock During manoeuvring 2 Port Officials boarded the vessel and required the
over 1 year then maybe exporting. Sanitary Free Pratique issued when the vessel cleared the Suez Canal.
Fresh Water: By barge at berths and inner anchorage, and in calm weather Customs:
at El Dekheila area and Waiting Anchorage. 2 Crew Lists.
General: Difficult to contact Agent in port. 2 Stores Lists.
Make sure everything locked and sealed. We kept just one door unlocked. 2 Personal Effects Declarations.
Lifeboats half out and all fire hoses charged and 2 ship’s crew on duty at 2 Personal Effects Lists.
night. The Customs Officers eventually sealed the Bonded Stores, but not the
Not necessary to employ watchman or use garbage boat, however you radio transmitter.
will be encouraged to do so. Immigration:
Rat guards are required on all lines. 2 Crew Lists.
Development/Changes: 1 Nil List.
1. El Dekheila Mineral Jetty now open, berthing on west face, two large 1 Passport Control Office Declaration (Egyptian form).
grab gantries in use. 1 Declaration of Departure (Egyptian form).
2. Container Quay under construction just south of El Agami Island. 2 Crew Personal Effects Declarations.
3. Area to west of New Mineral Jetty all built up with flats and houses. Immigration Officer boarded the vessel just before departure and clearance
Believe El Dekheila Airport no longer exists. was given to the Pilot.
4. Petroleum Harbour Berths No. 85, 86 and 87 formed into Livestock Port State Control: During the vessel’s stay at the port, Port State Control
quay by extending Quarantine breakwater inshore face line 150␥ to (PSC) inspected the vessel’s recently issued PSC Certificate. The Port
shore line and infilling. Official will also inspect the vessel’s other certificates. After completion of
5. Signal Station Tower (conspicuous) in position Lat. 31␥ 09.65' N, inspection, the vessel will be issued with a photocopy of the Egyptian PSC
Long. 29␥ 51.10' E just behind livestock jetty, although of modern Certificate.
construction with microwave dishes, Pilots report not used. Be extra cautious, check the identification of the PSC Official, as some
6. New Port Authority Control Tower (conspicuous) with radar scanner unscrupulous persons may present themselves asking for gratuities.
on top at Coal Quay (Lat. 31␥ 11.25' N, Long. 29␥ 52.10' E). Surveyor:
2 Cargo Manifests.
7. Outer breakwater SW Lt. in position Lat. 31␥ 09.92' N,
1 Ship’s Particulars.
Long. 29␥ 50.68' E. Fl.R 4s.
During berthing, the first person to arrive on board will be the surveyor.
8. Quarantine breakwater lighthouse in position Lat. 31␥ 09.93' N,
Agent:
Long. 29␥ 50.95' E. Qk.Fl.(2G) 3s. 1 Crew List.
9. Kamaria Port (works in progress 1984) completed with 2 moving 1 Ship’s Particulars.
discharge suckers associated with adjacent grain silo. The Agent Will Take the Following Original Ship’s Certificates Ashore:
10. Expunge hulk in position Lat. 31␥ 10.12' N, Long. 29␥ 51.22' E. Ship’s Register.
11. Floating Dock located in position Lat. 31␥ 09.10' N, Long. 29␥ 48.18' E. Safety Construction Certificate.
12. LPG Terminal located in position Lat. 31␥ 08.90' N, Long. 29␥ 49.13' E. Safety Equipment Certificate.
13. Expunge Approach Buoy in position Lat. 31␥ 10.95' N, Safety Radio Certificate.
Long. 29␥ 47.55' E. International Load Line Certificate.
14. Fairway Buoy in position Lat. 31␥ 10.25' N, Long. 29␥ 48.15' E is unlit. International Tonnage Certificate.
15. Great Pass Beacon partly destroyed and unlit has been replaced by IOPP Certificate with Minimum Safe Manning Supplement.
light in position Lat. 31␥ 10.00' N, Long. 29␥ 48.45' E. Hull and Machinery Class Certificate.
16. No. 8 Buoy in position Lat. 31␥ 09.70' N, Long. 29␥ 49.65' E is unlit. Cargo Securing Manual (photocopy only).
17. There is a new light at Head of New Mineral Jetty (Fl.G) in position Dry Docking Certificate (photocopy only).
Lat. 31␥ 08.38' N, Long. 29␥ 48.48' E. Officers and Engineers Certificates (depend upon the vessel register).
18. There are 2 new unlit pillar buoys (Green) in position Lat. 31␥ 09.40' N, Security: Make sure all accesses to the interior spaces of the vessel are
Long. 29␥ 49.75' E and Lat. 31␥ 09.20' N, Long. 29␥ 48.18' E. locked, and that only one door is left unlocked for access to the
19. Naval Base in position Lat. 31␥ 11.20' N, Long. 29␥ 51.50' E is a accommodation to the outer decks.
prohibited area.
Gratuities: During our stay at the port, the Pilot persistently asked for
SHIP OFFICER’S REPORT: April 1995. gratuities, and a lineman and boatman asked for a carton of cigarettes.
Vessel: Tanker. AGENT’S REPORT: May 2001.
Berth: Molasses berth. Terminal: MIDTAP Marine Terminal Jetty.
Location: Lat. 31␥ 10.2' N., Long. 29␥ 51.2' E. Berths: 91/A, 91/B and 91/C.
Berthing: The vessel berthed stern to, bow to the entrance with the vessel Location: The MIDTAP jetty is located 7 km. west of Alexandria Port at El
lying N.W. – S.E. between Berth No. 71 and the shipyard. Dekheila.
Mooring: The ship was berthed stern to the quay, ship’s head-out. Mooring General Description: Refined products from the MIDOR Refinery in the
arrangement was 2 breast lines on either quarter and 2 stern lines. All Amrya General Free Zone, 29 km. west of Alexandria, are loaded at the jetty.
mooring line leads were secured to conventional mooring bollards, and short The first vessel to load gasoline berthed at the jetty in April 2001.
to medium in length. Max. Size:
Both anchors were used, 6 shackles of cable on the port anchor and Max. S.d.w.t.: 50,000 tons (Oil Berths)
7 shackles of cable on the starboard anchor (see ‘‘Plan’’). 25,000 tons (Coke Berth)
Ladder: The ship’s ladder was lowered on the port side, distance off the Max. LOA: 190.0 m. (West Oil Berth)
quay approximately 80 m. 230.0 m. (East Oil Berth)
Cargo Handling Facilities: The cargo handled was molasses, through a 173.0 m. (Coke Berth)
single flexible cargo hose pipeline over the stern, so connecting the shore Max. Draft: 12.2 m. (Oil Berths)
to the ship’s cargo manifold. The gap between the quay and the ship’s stern 10.1 m. (Coke Berth)
was approximately 25 m. To span this gap, the hose was supported by Max. Beam: 20.0 m.
2 pontoons. The molasses tanks are located about 75 m. from the quay, the Max. Bow to Centre of Manifold: 120.0 m.
other side of the railway line. Max. Stern to Centre Manifold: 110.0 m.
On the starboard quarter, laying alongside the quay, there were coasters Berths: The minimum depth in the approaches to the berths is 16.0 m. and
working molasses cargoes (see ‘‘Plan’’). at the oil berths 13.6 m.
AGENT’S REPORT: June 1997. Ballast: There are ballast discharge facilities for up to 7,500 tons at
Terminal: Alexandria. USD 2.00/ton.
Distance from sea buoys: 3.6 km.
Length of dock/Length with dolphins: 365 m. Cargoes Handled at the Terminal: Oil Products: Gasoline 92, gasoline
Draft restriction alongside: 10 m. 95, kerosene and diesel oil.
Commodities handled: General cargo, timber, grain, Dry Bulk: Green coke.
cement, coal, ores and minerals. Overhead Obstructions: None.
Grains in bulk include corn, soya Operator: Middle East Oil Tankerage and Pipelines (MIDTAP).
and wheat. Suppliers: MIDOR (The Middle East Oil Refining Company).
Storage capacity: 2 silos, total capacity AUTHORITY: Alexandria Port Authority, 106 El Horreya Street,
148,000 tonnes Alexandria, Egypt. Tel: +20 (3) 483 1640. FAX: +20 (3) 482 9714.
Year built/last modified: 1987 Telex: 54310 APA UN. Contact: Rear-Admiral Hasan Hosny Amin,
Designed loading rate/t.p.h.: Discharge by conveyors approx. Chairman. Rear-Admiral Kamel El Nahta, Vice Chairman. Admiral Hamdy,
5,000 per day General Manager. Admiral Mahmoud Yousef, Harbour Master.
Damietta EGYPT
DAMIETTA: 31␥ 28' N 031␥ 46' E (See Plan) Computerised and remote control for all loading, transport, and extracting
operations.
Electronic and ground scales for outgoing and incoming grains.
OVERVIEW: Port handles primarily containers, bulk and dry cargo and is Also see ‘‘Berths’’ and ‘‘Agent’s Report’’.
linked to road and rail network. Maximum capacity 7.6 million tons,
800,000 TEU. CONTAINER FACILITIES:
LOCATION: 8.5 km. west of the River Nile estuary, approximately 70 km. Operator: Damietta Container and Cargo Handling Co. Tel: +20 (57)
west of Port Said and 250 km. east of Alexandria on the northern coast of 290101/3. Fax: +20 (57) 290777.
Egypt. Access is via a man-made entrance channel from the north. The port Facilities: Container terminal accommodates reefer yard container ships up
is linked to the River Nile by a navigational channel. to 13.25 m. draft. 10␺40 ton gantry cranes. Ro-Ro vessels accepted.
Container yard area 500,000 sq.m.
CHARTS: BA Charts No. 2573, 2574 and 2578.
Nautical Publications: Pilotage NP 49. OTHER FACILITIES:
DOCUMENTS: Ro-Ro: Ro-Ro berth with max. draft 11.0 m.
Also see ‘‘Berths’’ and ‘‘Container Facilities’’.
Arrival Declaration
Berthing Request CARGO HANDLING FACILITIES: For general cargo, by shore
Bills of Lading (to be presented, with copies of the Manifest at time of equipment or ship’s own gear.
report) Warehouses and Yards:
Cargo Manifest Type No. Space
Cargo Plan (sq.m.)
Crew List General cargo warehouses 4 20,000
IMO Cargo Container warehouses 2 9,280
Letter from Customs Department Refrigerated space 1 3,000
Letter from Quarantine Department General cargo yard 1 165,000
Letter illustrating vessel’s ETA Container yard 1 256,000
Maritime Declaration of Health Packed cargo yard 1 144,000
Travel Licence sealed by Marine Inspection and Control Department
Vessel Travel Letter. Cargo Gear: Owned by DPA:
Type No. Capacity
Also see ‘‘ISPS Compliance’’.
(tons)
ISPS COMPLIANCE: Port is compliant. Quayside cranes 2 30
PFSO: Admiral Ibrahim Ali El-Sabae, Damietta Port Authority Security Tower crane 1 40
General Manager. Mobile: +20 (10) 615 9038. Tower crane 1 25
Commodore Taher Ahmed Alhendy, Assistant Security General Manager. Telescopic cranes 3
Mobile: +20 (10) 171 2078. Tower cranes 3
Damietta Container & Cargo Handling Co: Hassan Mohamed Shafai. Suction units 3 700 t.p.h.
Also see ‘‘VHF’’. Conveyor belts 2 700 t.p.h.
MAX. SIZE: Draft 14.5 m. Owned by DCHC:
Bulk: 80,000 d.w.t., draft 13.25 m. Quayside gantry cranes 6 40
Containers: Draft 13.25 m. Mobile cranes 12 40
Dry Cargo: Draft 11.0 m. Mobile cranes 2 25
Ro-Ro: Draft 11.0 m. Transtainers 3 15
DENSITY: 1025. Quayside cranes 3 25
APPROACHES: The entrance channel is 11.3 km. in length, 300 m. wide, Forklifts 11 3/5/15
reducing to 250 m. when approaching the breakwaters. This channel is Tractors 30
marked by 18 buoys, lit at night. Depth is 15.0 m. STEVEDORES: Stevedoring undertaken by Load and Discharge Co
Barge Channel: The channel links port to River Nile and is 4.5 km. long, which is affiliated to DCHC.
90 m. wide and 5.0 m. deep. Working Hours: Stevedores work throughout 24 hours.
Breakwaters: The east breakwater extends for 540 m. and the west BALLAST: Reception facilities available.
breakwater for 1,500 m.
Turning Basin: The turning basin has diameter 500 m. with depth 14.5 m.
POLLUTION: The following are available:
a) purification boat equipped with a floating waste collection basket
off the container dock, and depth 12.0 m. off the general cargo dock. b) a double unit for oil skimming
PILOTAGE: Compulsory for all vessels over 300 g.t. Vessels proceeding c) waste reception unit
to Damietta Port should inform Damietta Port Authority by cable 7 days and d) self-propelled oil skimmer
24 hours prior to arrival. On arriving at the waiting area, ship’s Master must e) two oil skimming static units
call the Pilot Station on VHF Channel 16 and advise time of arrival, draft, f) 1,000 m. floating fenders
length, cargo, etc. Vessels are advised to approach through the northwestern g) unaerated high pressure pump
side of the waiting area. Vessels are not allowed to approach the access h) gas detection device
channel without a Pilot on board. i) disperser for chemicals.
ANCHORAGES: The waiting area is located about 11 km. north of the WASTE DISPOSAL: Following facilities available for max. 32 cu.m.:
port entrance and is marked by five light buoys. 1. for dirty ballast 700 tonnes capacity sea tanker.
PRATIQUE: Usual international health regulations are to be observed. 2. for oily bilge water 700 tonnes capacity sea tanker.
VHF: Port Control listens on Channel 16 throughout 24 hours and works on 3. for food waste and cargo associated waste there is a garbage vehicle
Channel 14. with 10 cu.m. capacity
Operations Centre: Damietta Port Authority Operation Centre works 4. for maintenance and other types of waste, two floating units for waste
throughout 24 hours. VHF Channel 14. Tel: +20 (57) 290957, 290964. disposal and sediment collection.
TUGS: Six tugs (1,200 – 3,500h.p.). SLOPS DISPOSAL: See‘‘Waste Disposal’’.
Tug Requirements: MEDICAL: Hospitals available at Ras el Barr (6 km.) and Damietta (8 km.).
Vessels up to 122 m. require one tug. Inoculations and vaccinations can be carried out. Notice only required in an
Vessels over 122 m. require two tugs. emergency.
A third tug is available at Master’s request. FRESH WATER: Available.
Tugs compulsory for vessels over 2,000 g.r.t. FUEL: All grades available at all berths and by barge.
Ship’s lines used on departure. CHANDLERY: Available by boat in the waiting area or by shore facilities
BERTHS: alongside the berths.
Berth Length Depth Remarks STORING: See ‘‘Storing’’ on page xiv.
No. (m.) (m.) 1. Ships can be stored by trucks or barges.
1 250 14.5 Containers 2. Yes
5 200 12.0 General cargo 6. Yes.
6 200 12.0 General cargo SERVICES: Firefighting tugs and trucks are available, also mooring and
7 200 12.0 General cargo salvage launches, international telephone, post and telex services and
8 200 12.0 General cargo incinerator.
9 225 12.0 Bulk
10 225 12.0 Bulk
DRY DOCK: Shiplift 42␺12 m. for up to 450 tons.
11 225 12.0 Bulk REPAIRS: Multi-purpose maintenance and repairs undertaken by Damietta
12 225 12.0 Bulk Port Authority.
13 300 14.5 Grain SURVEYORS: Lloyd’s and ABS.
14 300 14.5 Grain POLICE/AMBULANCE/FIRE: Police Tel: +20 (57) 325934. Port Police
15 295 14.5 Multipurpose Tel: +20 (57) 290945. Ambulance Tel: +20 (57) 322217. Fire Tel: +20 (57)
16 295 14.5 Multipurpose 325967.
EMERGENCY RESPONSE CENTRE: Contact pilot station at
BULK FACILITIES: Facilities: Loading and discharging at bulk berths Damietta Port Tower by VHF Channel 16. Tel: +20 (57) 325964.
by shore equipment.
Silos with total capacity of 150,000 tons of grains. TIME: GMT plus 2 hours.
Two berths are devoted to serve the silo and can accommodate vessels LOCAL HOLIDAYS: Mouled el-Naby, Sham el-Nessim, Labour Day,
up to 80,000 d.w.t. Revolution Day, Ramadan Bairam, Armed Forces Day (6 October), Courban
2␺750 t.p.h. and 1␺100 t.p.h. automatic suction unloaders. Bairam, Hejra New Year.
Means of extracting grains from the silo by trucks, cargo trains, and river All holidays can be worked as overtime.
barges, capacity 70 t.p.h. WEATHER/TIDES: Tidal Range: 0.61 m.
5,000 sq.m. shed to pack grain in sacks at a capacity of 3,000 tons/day. Climate: Mild throughout year. Rainy season autumn to winter.
EGYPT Damietta
Winds: Prevailing winds northern and northwestern. Loading from port side.
DELAYS: None. Also see ‘‘Regulations’’.
CONSULS: At Port Said. HOSES: 1␺16 in., with Camlocks.
If cargo hose or connection is different, Master should contact ‘‘Esso Suez
NEAREST AIRPORT: Port Said Domestic Airport, 60 km. Cairo Terminal Office’’ 72 hours prior to his arrival at East Zeit stating the tanker
International Airport, 180 km.
hose and connection type.
BANKS: The Port Authority deals with following banks: National Bank of CARGO HANDLING FACILITIES: Tankers must be equipped with a
Egypt, Damietta branch; National Investment Bank and Central Bank of
Egypt, Cairo main branches. Commercial International Bank, port branch. derrick with minimum 10 tons capacity.
Vessels not fitted with either a Smit Bracket or chain stopper must have
CUSTOMS: 200 gms. tobacco or 200 cigarettes and one litre of spirits one set of bitts on the foc’sle head certified to SWL of 100 tons.
permitted for each crew member to be held out of bond per week. Max. loading rate for crude oil 3,000 tonnes/p.h.
SHORE LEAVE: Crew members are allowed ashore within range of BALLAST: Deballasting Facilities: Available. Shore facilities can
Damietta Town. Short visits to adjacent cities can be arranged through ship’s
accept up to 75,000 bbls. over 12 in. floating hose connected for this purpose.
Agent.
If Master will require deballasting of clean cargo tanks ballast while loading
IDENTIFICATION CARDS: Seamen’s passports are sufficient. in operation, letter should be submitted to the terminal that all bulkheads are
GENERAL: Port Free Zones: Industrial free zone, totalling 82 ha. for fully tight and no leakage to avoid any contamination. Master on behalf of
port related industrial projects. Owners and/or Charterers will bear all costs and expenses for cleaning
Commercial free zone, totalling 210 ha. for storage projects of international operations required to remove any pollution which might occur due to
products and their re-distribution among consumer countries. pumping ballast overboard as well as a fine of US$15,000.
Above zones are adjacent to port area and entertain all advantages of REGULATIONS: Notice: SBM can accommodate tankers up to
world free zones including export, import, taxes, customs dues and currency 128,000 d.w.t. under the following restrictions:
constraints exemption.
a. 7 – 10 days advance notice for lifting
Private free zones are also existing for specific projects inside port limits.
They are rapidly growing in number and work scale. b. During loading operation, tankers to maintain 35% of its deadweight,
All necessary infrastructure elements have been provided to ensure smooth subject to ensuring that ship’s propeller is fully submerged
work in these areas. c. Maximum wind 25 knots
d. Tanker trim upon arrival is 1.21 – 1.82 m. by stern
Useful Telephone Numbers: e. Maximum wave height 1.82 m
⌻ Customs. Tel: +20 (57) 290936/7
⌻ Egyptian Warehouses Co. Tel: +20 (57) 527829. Fax: +20 (57) f. Maximum current 1.0 knots
322787 g. Tanker to keep 9.14 m. draft limitation during loading
⌻ General Authority for Export and Import Control. Tel: +20 (57) 290807. h. Mooring shall be attempted during north to south current conditions
Fax: +20 (57) 290134 only
⌻ Passport Section. Tel: +20 (57) 290831. i. Tanker shall approach the SBM from south only
j. No mooring attempts shall be made when the prevailing wind is from
DEVELOPMENTS: Port linked to national maritime data bank to provide SE and SW directions and is stronger than the effective current.
information services. Information system installed to ensure co-ordination of
all port operations. NEAREST AIRPORT: Hurghada International, 77 km.
Renovations to port infrastructures and major superstructures. SHIPMASTER’S REPORT: August 1989.
Gas terminal and petroleum jetties being developed. Vessel: 89,000 d.w.t.
AGENT’S REPORT: June 1997. The Pilot for the Esso SBM prefers vessel to arrive at about 0400 hrs. (i.e.
Terminal: Mina Dumyat. berthing at daylight), so it is not necessary to delay vessel to arrive at
Distance from sea buoys: 11 km. 0600 hrs.
Length of dock/Length with dolphins: 600 m. Pilot will board between the two SBMs. The N’ly SBM (red) is for Esso
Draft restriction alongside: 14.5 m. cargoes, and the S’ly SBM (yellow) for SUCO cargoes.
Commodities handled: Grains in bulk, mainly soya, While mooring to SBM, two seamen are required to standby aft with a
soyameal, wheat, corn heaving line, ready to give a mooring line to towing tender if necessary.
Storage capacity: Silo capacity 100,000 tonnes. Papers arrive on board about 4 hours after completion of loading. Once
The grain silo has 6 pouring cells loading finished, ullages taken and ship’s figure obtained. Vessel can unmoor
and 2 grain suction unloaders. and anchor in waiting area, where cargo sampling may be carried out.
Year built/last modified: 1986 AUTHORITY: Suez Oil Co (SUCO), 21 Ahmed Orabi Street,
Designed loading rate/t.p.h.: Two suction unloaders with PO Box 2622, El Mohandessien, Cairo, Egypt. Tel: 020 (65) 0723.
700 t.p.h. Fax: +020 (65) 0544. Telex: 92300 SUCO UN. Contact: Captain A Nassef,
Potable fresh water available: Yes, by pier connection
Manager Port Operations.
Formerly known as: Alias Mina Dumyat
Dock access by vehicle permitted: Yes Terminal Operator: Esso Suez Inc, 3 Abu El Fedra Street, PO Box 989,
Is bunkering permitted alongside?: Yes, by barges by Copetrole Zamalek, Cairo, Egypt.
Owner/Operator of elevator: Damietta Port Authority
Largest vessel loaded: 80,000 d.w.t.
AUTHORITY: Damietta Port Authority (DPA), PO Box 13, Damietta HAMRAWEIN: 26␥ 15' N 034␥ 12' E (See Plan)
34511, Egypt. Tel: +20 (57) 325940/41/42. FAX: +20 (57) 325930, 325963.
Telex: 62204 DAMPA UN. Email: damsite@embd.gov.eg LOCATION: On the west coast of the Red Sea, 80 km. from Hurghada.
Web: www.mts.gov.eg Contact: Rear Admiral Ibrahim Youssef Ibrahim, CHARTS: BA Charts No. 159 and 3043.
DPA Chairman (Tel: +20 (57) 290005). Captain Ibrahim Shafiek, Harbour
Master (Tel: +20 (57) 290965). ISPS COMPLIANCE: Port is compliant.
MAX. SIZE: Bulk: 40,000 d.w. tonnes, LOA 170 m., draft 10.06 m.
APPROACHES: Daytime Leading Marks:
EAST ZEIT TERMINAL: 27␥ 51' N 033␥ 36' E Front mark: Lat. 26␥ 15' 05.984" N, Long. 34␥ 12' 01.622" E
Rear mark: Lat. 26␥ 15' 01.46" N, Long. 34␥ 11' 54.95" E.
LOCATION: The CALM is approximately 85 km. north of Hughada. BERTHS: Length of quay 167 m., depth 14.0 m. In addition to mooring
ISPS COMPLIANCE: Port is compliant. bollard on the quay, there are four mooring buoys.
MAX. SIZE: 85,000 d.w.t. fully loaded, 128,000 d.w.t. with notice, BULK FACILITIES: The loading gantry system with conveyor belt and
35,000 tons min. d.w.t. two loading chutes, air draft 13.7 m., 4,500 tonnes/day.
LOA 255.42 m. but distance bow to manifold not greater than 137.16 m. NEAREST AIRPORT: El Quseir Domestic Airport. Hurghada
Draft 18.28 m., depth 28.95 m. International Airport, 130 km.
Also see ‘‘Regulations’’.
SHIPMASTER’S REPORT: April 1988.
RESTRICTIONS: Berthing during daylight hours only and unberthing As berthing is carried out during daylight hours only, vessel should adjust
throughout 24 hours. ETA accordingly. The nearest anchorage is at Quseir, about 8 miles to the
ANCHORAGES: Tanker should call East Zeit Terminal before south, where good anchorage is obtained about 2 miles offshore (see BA
approaching and enquire if necessary to drop anchor in the anchorage area. Chart No. 3043).
Vessel is not permitted to anchor outside the anchorage area. Radio: Quseir Radio – SUK.
Waiting Area: South of CALM. The southern half of a circle of 1 mile radius Health: Quarantine inspection for pratique can be done at berth or at
around position: Lat. 27␥ 48.5' N, Long. 33␥ 37.0' E, depth 20 – 44 m. with
39 m. at centre. anchorage at Quseir.
PRE-ARRIVAL INFORMATION: Tankers calling at East Zeit Bay must Pilotage: Arranged by Agent or Misr Phosphate Co. There is no VHF
send ETA message 72, 48 and 24 hours before arrival at the terminal to communication with berth or pilot boat. Pilot boards about 1 nautical mile
‘‘Esso Suez Inc.’’, office Telex No. 21148 ESOSZ UN, addressed to east of the breakwater by a motor launch displaying flag H. Vessel may give
‘‘Exploresso’’ for East Zeit Terminal attention Marine Supervisor, via any a few blasts on the whistle to attract attention. Pilot is unlicensed and does
coastal radio station: Port Said (Suez and Kosseir). The Notices must also not speak English. It is advisable to discuss mooring plans with him prior to
be sent to the Egyptian General Petroleum Co (Supply Sector). approaching the berth. It is further recommended that the Master should con
ETA messages to Esso Suez Inc should give the best estimates of ship’s the vessel himself to avoid confusion due to difficulty in communication.
arrival time at the terminal. This ETA message should also include a definite Vessel should have good long ropes ready to be sent out to the mooring
statement of details of any equipment required from shore for connecting buoys from quite a distance away. There are no tugs available and the vessel
12 in. floating hoses. Bearing in mind that such hose needs tanker to be is turned around by warping. Vessel should be prepared to join two ropes
equipped with crane classed/certified up to 10 tons capacity. together if length of one is insufficient. Extreme care is advised as windshifts
VHF: Master must call East Zeit Terminal 4 hours prior to arrival on can be quite abrupt and this vessel had to abandon attempts to berth mid-way
Channel 13 which is considered the calling (by the vessel’s side only) and through approach and put to sea and wait for the wind to subside.
working channel, Channel 16 may be used in an emergency. Tugs: No tugs available.
TANKER FACILITIES: CALM (Catenary Anchor Leg Mooring), able to Berth Facilities: The berth is exclusively operated by the Misr
accommotate tankers up to 128,000 d.w.t. Phosphate Co for loading rock phosphate in bulk. There is a mechanical
Mooring facilities on tankers’s bow should be ready prior arrival. Tanker loader with two loading chutes about 50 m. apart. They are stationary and
must be trimmed about 2.21 m. by the stern and have adequate ballast for only one is used at a time. The vessel has to be warped forward and aft to
manoeuvring. bring the appropriate hatch under the chute.
Hamrawein EGYPT
General: Limited quantities of fresh provisions are available. Watchmen and the centre fairlead is sent to the bollard on the reef dead astern. When the
garbage disposal services were provided by the same supplier. Masters are vessel swings clear of the starboard aft buoy, the stern line is then heaved
advised to scrutinise all bills thoroughly prior to signing as attempts are made up. The port side head line, fore and aft breast lines, are then run.
to obtain signature on blank bills on the pretext that they are requisition slips. The vessel was then secured port side alongside having 3 head lines,
SHIPMASTER’S REPORT: January 1989. 1 spring forward, 1 spring aft, 2 breast lines (port) aft, 2 stern lines (one to
reef and one to buoy).
Location: Lat. 26␥ 15.5' N, Long. 34␥ 12.2' E. The proximity of the reefs means that they will appear to be very close to
Hamrawein Phosphate Terminal has a single jetty length 67 m. and belongs
the vessel’s starboard beam through aft to port quarter.
to Misr Phosphate Company, Hamrawein. There are two mooring buoys.
There are no leading beacons as mentioned in NP 64. All mooring operations Bulk Cargo: The vessel was loaded down to draft 8.0 m. At this point the
and pilot are arranged by the shippers (Misr Phosphate). vessel was shifted 10.0 m. off the jetty and loaded down to draft 10.0 m.
even-keel.
Port Limits: 4 nautical miles off the coast. The two chutes drop cargo on to conveyors (electrically-powered) on board
Documents: the vessel. Trimming of cargo and correcting the list is not straightforward
2 Crew Declarations due to the fact that the conveyors are fixed and require the ship’s cranes to
4 Crew Lists move them.
2 Currency Declarations
IOPP Certificate Access to Vessel: Made via small boat using starboard gangway.
Load Line Certificate Medical: No facilities. Seamen are sent to El Quseir.
Register Fresh Water: Not available at berth but can be supplied by the ship’s
Safety Construction Certificate chandler. USD10/tonne.
Safety Equipment and Safety Radio Certificates Fuel: Not available.
2 Stores Lists. Chandlery: Provisions available via chandler.
Free pratique is usually granted after berthing when vessel boarded by Repairs: No facilities available.
Quarantine officials. Customs Allowances: 200 cigarettes, one bottle of spirits.
Pilotage: Pilot is compulsory and boards 2 – 3 cables north of the north Shore Leave: Possible.
mooring buoy. The vessel is then turned around and re-approaches the north
mooring buoy.
Repatriation: Possible.
Nearest Airport: El Quseir.
Approaches: Vessel should approach from sea, heading for the north
mooring buoy. Vessel sets south towards the dangerous reefs which can be Telephones: Public telephones not available on jetty.
visually seen or picked-up on radar when at close range. The reefs are not Banks: Not available.
marked by buoys, etc. but can be recognised by change in water colour. OPERATOR: Head Office: El Nasr Mining Company (NMC), El
Anchorage: The only anchorage available is 1 nautical mile east of Kossier, Mahamid, Edfo, Aswan, Egypt. Tel: +20 (97) 711073. FAX: +20 (97)
as marked on BA Chart No. 3043. 711074. Email: elnasrmining@elnasrmining.com
Maximum Size: Vessels drawing 33 ft. can be accommodated. Web: www.elnasrmining.com Contact: Eng. Abu El Souad Dongol, Head of
Operations.
Radio: Kossier Radio, call sign ‘‘SUK’’, is recommended for all
communications with agents, shippers, etc.
There is no VHF or WT station at the terminal. There is no contact with
Pilot as pilot boat is not equipped with a radio. The Pilot boarded from a MARSA AL HAMRA (Hamra): 30␥ 59' N 028␥ 52' E
rowing mooring boat with the pilot flag hoisted. The pilot boat was out of
order. LOCATION: WEPCO Terminal: The Mono Mooring Buoy is in an open
Tugs: Not available. and unsheltered roadstead. The mooring buoy is located at
Berthing: Vessel heads for the north end of the breakwater, keeping close Lat. 30␥ 58' 07.5" N., Long. 28␥ 52.2' E. It is 53 miles on a bearing of
to the north mooring buoy on the starboard side. When 30 m. off the 255␥ from Ras-el-Tin Lighthouse, Alexandria, and 3 miles offshore in
breakwater, starboard anchor is let go to four shackles in water and vessel approximately 66 ft. of water.
is swung around to make fast port side alongside. Mooring boat is used for DOCUMENTS:
sending lines ashore. A line is also made fast to the south mooring buoy. 4 Crew Lists.
This assists when leaving the berth. Deck log books showing date of last call at a A.R.E. port, completed up
Loading: Two chutes are available with a good outreach, but only one can to the time of arrival.
be used at a time. Vessel has to be shifted fore and aft frequently to place Quarantine Questionnaire in duplicate (Form No. 15 Q.A.) showing all ports
holds in position for the fore and aft chutes. Loading rate is high and a of call, as well as dates of sailings for the last 30 days, nature of cargo on
maximum rate of 7,000 tonnes per day can easily be achieved. board, destination, as well as sickness among crew or passengers, if any,
specially when it is presumed that the sick will be hospitalised. These forms
Medical: Seamen can be sent to doctor at Kossier or Safaga, after special can be filled on arrival if not available on board before arrival.
permission granted by Immigration. Notice required.
Derat Certificate should be handy for inspection.
Density: Average 1029. Clearance from Last Port.
Fresh Water: Not available at berth. Water has to be ordered from Safaga Bonded Store List, in duplicate.
by barge. Rate US$22.00 per tonne, with minimum supply of 200 tonnes. Crew List and Passenger List in duplicate.
Fuel: Not available locally. Any requirements to be obtained from Safaga. ISPS COMPLIANCE: Port is compliant.
Repairs: No facilities available. MAX. SIZE: 100,000 d.w.t. Max. draft 38 ft.
Customs Allowance: 200 cigarettes. Beer allowed. No liquor except wines RESTRICTIONS: Normally vessels are moored during daylight hours
allowed. only, but permission can be obtained to sail at night.
Watches, clocks, radios, cassette recorders, cameras, TV and videos are PILOTAGE: The S.-S.W.-W. quandrant from the buoy is a Prohibited
placed under seal by Customs. Anchorage Area. Gebisa Reef is at Lat. 30␥ 58' 30" N.,
Repatriation: Facilities exist for repatriation and for crew changes. Long. 28␥ 49' 10" E., at 2.7 miles on a bearing of 260␥ from the buoy.
Airport: Nearest airport at Hurghada, which has regular flights to Cairo. The mooring buoy carries a light, flashing red 6 times per minute, and
Shore Leave: Generally no shore leave allowed. If permitted, shore passes visible all round to a distance of 4.5 – 5 miles in clear tropical weather. It
required. also has a fog horn, sounding ‘‘U’’ and a radar reflector.
Provisions: Fresh provisions and meat available and supplied by ship Surface current sets East at 10 miles offshore at the rate of 1 knot.
chandler from Kossier. No bonded items available. Maximum rise and fall of tide in the mooring area is 2 ft.
Authority: Misr Phosphate Company, Hamrawein (Red Sea), Egypt. Vessel arriving should approach to within 2 miles North of the buoy, where
Tel: (Kossier) 39. Cables: Hamerpho, Kossier. they will be met by the Harbour Master or Pilot who will advise the ship’s
Master on approaches to the mooring buoy, mooring and unmooring.
SHIPMASTER’S REPORT: October 2004.
Vessel: Bulk Carrier.
ANCHORAGES: 15 miles N.E. of SBM.
Vessel Size: 35,000 d.w.t. PRATIQUE: Hoist International Code Quarantine Signals when entering.
Any sickness must be reported to local authorities.
Cargo: Phosphate. VHF: Ships nearing Al Hamra Terminal may contact the terminal by FM/VHF
Location: The Hamrawein Phosphate Terminal is located in position radio on 156.70 MHz or 2182 kHz.
Lat. 26␥ 15.5' N, Long. 34␥ 12.2' E. One jetty with one conveyor belt While at the mooring, ship-to-shore communication is by portable
connected to two chutes. Vessel is warped between these two chutes. VHF radio-telephone units, under the direct charge of the Mooring Master.
Documents: All trading certificates, including certificate of competencies for The terminal uses VHF Channel 10 for all communications.
all the ship’s officers. Watchkeeping certificates and STCW certificates are
collected by the ship’s Agent, requiring six copies.
TUGS: Not available and not required.
Max Size: LOA 185 m. and draft even-keel up to 10.0 m. BERTHS: 2 good lines must be ready on the forecastle to be sent to the
buoy plus a further 2 lines for use as messengers. Ship’s lifting gear must
Density: 1029. be ready near the port manifold for lifting and connecting 2␺12 in. hoses,
Restrictions: Berthing during daylight hours only. with proper reducers if the manifold does not fit 12 in. hose with 150 ASA
Approaches: Port Control will contact vessel via VHF, instructing vessel to standard flanges. The total weight per hose assembly is approximately 5 tons.
stand off at 3 nautical miles SE of the port and maintaining VHF contact. Maximum loading rate is 3,700 t.p.h.
Pilots board 2 nautical miles SE of port. They are not licensed. A pilot ladder must be safely rigged for immediate use and long enough
Radar picture of port appears very clear as shown in plan with two buoys to reach the Mooring Master’s launch. At night adequate lighting must be
south of the jetty standing out. rigged overside to enable the Mooring Master to approach and board the
Anchorage: There is no anchorage off the port. Vessels anchor off El Quseir, ship safely, and searchlights should be rigged on both sides of the bridge to
staying in contact with Hamrawein Port Control via VHF. assist in running lines to the buoy.
Tugs: Not available. BALLAST: No dirty ballast may be pumped overboard, and it is the ship’s
Berth: Maximum depth at jetty is 14.0 m. foreward, 8.5 m. midships and Master’s responsibility to ensure that no oil – whether crude, diesel, bunker
12.5 m. aft. or bilge – is pumped or spilled into the waters of and surrounding the
Mooring: Vessel’s approach to the jetty is made by keeping both buoys on Terminal. Ballast can be pumped ashore through one or both of the floating
the port side and dropping starboard anchor to three shackles when vessel hoses direct to disposal facilities on shore.
is approximately 60 m. away from the breakwater. MEDICAL: Nearest hospital facilities are at Alexandria, at least 90 minutes
After the starboard anchor is let go the westernmost buoy, it is secured drive from the terminal.
first by passing a mooring line from the starboard quarter, which is then First Aid could be provided and if necessary, transportation to hospital in
heaved up. Vessel’s stern swings to port. In the meantime, a stern line from Alexandria.
EGYPT Marsa al Hamra
FRESH WATER: Not available. Quays at Port Said: The Ministry of Transport has quays to enable vessels
FUEL: Not available. to berth alongside at Cheriff and Abbas Basins. Length about 1,300 m. Height
about 2.0 m. from sea level. Also 14 cranes of 3 tons lifting capacity each,
CUSTOMS: Present regulations at El Alamein allow each seaman to retain running on rails have been installed. Maximum draft allowed is 8.23 m. The
in his possession a maximum of 50 cigarettes or 1 ounce of tobacco or best part of these quays is ready and vessels with full cargo for discharge
5 cigars. All other smoking items must be collected and listed before arrival. are now berthing alongside. Vessels drawing more than 8.23 m. have to
The list will be checked by Customs before sealing the locker, and any lighten their cargo into lighters to that draft before berthing.
discrepancies will be subject to fines. The distance between Bollards 23 and 24 south of deep Abbas Quay
AUTHORITY: Western Desert Operating Petroleum Company – (30 m.) has been reserved for the berthing of one Ro-Ro vessel by the stern,
(WEPCO), Borg El Saghr Building, Safia Zaghloul Street, P.O.Box 412, within the present allowed draft (8.23 m.).
Alexandria, Egypt. Tel: +20 (3) 495-9203, 491-8169. Telex: 54075 Un. Height of quay from sea level: 2.0 m.
FAX: +20 (3) 493-4016. Cables: Wepoil Alexandria. Average tide all year: from 40 – 50 cm.
Email: wepco@cns.sisnet.net Contact: Ahmed Gabr, Operations Manager. Thickness of fender: about 50 cm.
Breadth of quay edge: from 50 – 60 cm.
BULK FACILITIES:
See ‘‘Agent’s Report’’.
PORT SAID (Bur Sa’id), including Port Fouad: Grain: Grain vessels of 45,000 d.w.t. (draft 11.58 – 12.8 m.) can berth
31␥ 15' N 032␥ 18' E (See Plan) alongside a 100 m. length hulk with two barges as spacers. Rate of discharge
400 t.p.h. (7,000 – 8,000 tons per day).
Storage capacity 10␺400 ton and 1␺20,000 ton silos.
Also see Suez Canal.
CONTAINER FACILITIES: Container quay with length 350 m. and
depth 13.72 m. 2␺45 ton cranes are installed. An additional 250 m.
OVERVIEW: The port is a multi-user port consisting of three areas. multi-purpose quay has been built adjacent to it. Maximum draft at container
LOCATION: At the north end of the Suez Canal in the NW of the country. quay and multi-purpose quay is 12.8 m.
CHARTS: BA Charts No. 234 and 2578. Suez Canal Container Terminal: Operator: Suez Canal Container
ISPS COMPLIANCE: Port is compliant. Terminal (SCCT). Mobile: +20 (12) 398 7700/1, 733 8861/2. Fax: +20 (66)
Port Facility Security Officer: Port Authority. Hassan Mostafa Ibrahim. 332 2367. Email: scct@scctportsaid.com Web: www.scctportsaid.com
Suez Canal Container Terminal. Esmail Mazhar Zin Eldin. Facilities: The terminal has four berths, totalling quay length 1,200 m. and
MAX. SIZE: LOA 297 m. width 500 m. with water depth alongside 16.5 m. Vessels berth port or
Bulk: 45,000 d.w.t., draft 12.8 m. starboard side alongside. The terminal has 5 super post-Panamax gantry
Containers: Depth 16.5 m. cranes (outreach 22 containers), 14 RTGs (5+1 high, 7+1 wide), 2 reach
Tankers: Draft 11.89 m. stackers, 33 terminal tractors and trailer units, 2 empty container handlers,
732 reefer points. Container freight station (CFS), total area 600,000 sq.m.
PILOTAGE: Compulsory. capacity 41,159 TEU, with projected annual throughput 2.2 million TEU and
Also see ‘‘Suez Canal’’. connection to national railway system.
VHF: Port Control listens on Channel 16 and works on Channels 9, 12, Also see ‘‘Developments’’.
13 and 73. Pilots work on Channel 12 outside and Channel 13 inside the TANKER FACILITIES: There is a bunkering station at Port Said harbour
harbour. Operational throughout 24 hours. which can accommodate four tankers with draft not more than 11.89 m. for
BERTHS: Port Said: the purpose of discharging their cargo of fuel or diesel oil to the different oil
No. of Length of bunkering companies.
Berths Berth Berth Vessel LOA Remarks STEVEDORES: Vessels requiring stevedores should notify the ship’s
(No.) (m.) (m.) Agent of the requirement when forwarding ETA prior to arrival. As stated in
Isolated Berths*: the ETA messages, Masters are advised to include in their messages details
3 1 280 232 of cargo to be discharged, hatch by hatch and gangways required, if possible.
2 250 202 All loading and discharging operations in Port Said Roads are effected by
3 313 266 lighters.
Outer Harbour Basin: There are steel lighters, and self-propelled barges available for this purpose
冎
10 1A 245 197 that will allow rapid work to be carried out. Several reefer ships are provided
2A 300 252 with flat floating pontoons to facilitate discharge of cargo. At Port Said the
3A draft of water does not allow ships to be berthed alongside quays to carry
4A out cargo operations except in Cheriff and Abbas Quays which accommodate
5A vessels up to 8.23 m. and consequently same are carried out also from and
6A without Vessel heading into lighters which are brought alongside the vessels whilst at anchor.
limitation
7A 270␥(T)
Opening/Closing Hatches: In accordance with charter parties, the
8A opening and closing of hatches are dealt with as instructed in this agreement,
9 AN but for vessels carrying out minor cargo operations, it is customary that
冎
9 AS stevedores open and close ships’ hatches against ships’ account. To expedite
5 4 AE vessel’s transit, it is always recommended that ship’s crew, during vessel’s
5 AE entering into the harbour should open the hatches and rig ship’s derricks in
6 AE 107 350 Vessel heading order that they may be ready for cargo operations immediately upon ship’s
8 AE 090␥(T) arrival.
9 AE Cargo Gear: These are normally supplied by the stevedores to comply with
Red Berths*: the nature of cargo discharged or loaded from cargo ships. Rope lengths
7 0R 140 92 On the western and other cargo gear may be additionally required to expedite ship’s
1R 245 197 side of channel discharge.
2R 290 242 WASTE DISPOSAL: No refuse or ashes are allowed to be thrown whilst
3R 238 190 ships are moored. Small barges are available for disposal of garbage or
4R 295 297 ashes, which craft can be obtained at a reasonable hire.
5R 162 114 MEDICAL: Al Mabarra Hospital, Notre Dame de la Deliverande Hospital,
6R 280 232 two General Government hospitals, tuberculosis hospital, isolation hospital
Black Berths*: and ophthalmic hospital.
7 1N 270 193 On the eastern FUEL: Vessels can also be supplied at the anchorage areas and in port
2N 170 122 side of channel berths by means of supply tankers and self-propelled barges respectively.
3N 270 222
4N 205 157 DRY DOCK: A floating dock of 25,000 tons, capable of docking vessels
5N 220 172 up to 50,000 d.w.t., is available. Sufficient notice is required to book the date
6N 225 177 for either the floating dock or the dry dock.
7N 230 182 The Suez Canal Authority’s floating dock and shipyard is situated at the
Navy House: northern entrance of the Suez Canal, opposite to Port Said Lighthouse.
6 1 61 Ships up to 50,000 d.w.t. may undergo all kinds of repairs in the shortest
2 61 possible time. Tankers, by gas-freeing during their voyage from their home
3 101 harbour to Port Said, will save at least 4 days if they carry out their repairs
4 168 in our dock.
5 168 Port Said Shipyard has three floating cranes, 1␺40 ton, 1␺100 ton and
6 168 1␺200 ton capacity available for hire.
Cheriff Quay: Alongside REPAIRS: Container Repairs: SCCT has a repair workshop for
Abbas Quay: Alongside repairing and cleaning containers.
Hussein Basin: TELEPHONES: There are no telephone facilities available in Port Said
17 91 South of the except at Berth No. 4 Red where passenger ships are normally berthed, and
to inflection point this can be connected when snake pontoon is fixed with ship’s gangway.
180 North of the NEAREST AIRPORT: Port Said Domestic Airport, 10 km. Cairo
inflection point International Airport, 2.5 hours by road from Port Said. When sending crew
E Berths*: by aeroplane to join their respective vessels, notify in good time the flight
4 1E 325 277 Depth 8.53 m. number as well as the time and date of the arrival in Cairo to Cairo Shipping
2E 280 232 Depth 9.45 m. Agency through ship’s Agent for the necessary clearance.
3E 250 202 Depth 9.75 m.
4E 220 172 Depth 9.75 m.
DEVELOPMENTS: Suez Canal Container Terminal: On completion
of Phase 1, there will be 12 super post-Panamax gantry cranes and 36 RTGs
* In good weather the length on buoys may be increased from 3.0 – 9.0 m. in place.
according to the length of the berth and height of the vessel. Phase 2: The terminal will possibly have depth increased to 17.5 m.
Port Said EGYPT
AGENT’S REPORT: June 1997. BULK FACILITIES: See ‘‘Agent’s Report’’.
PORT SAID:
Terminal: Asswan and Observer TANKER FACILITIES: Petroleum Basin: The basin’s boundary is
Distance from sea buoys: 5 km. contained within an imaginary line extending 140␥(T) from the extremity of
Length of dock/Length with dolphins: 591 m. the eastern breakwater until the western breakwater.
Draft restriction alongside: 11.60 m. Jetty No. 4: LOA 152.4 m., draft 7.92 m.
Commodities handled: Bulk, grain, wheat, soya meal, Jetty No. 5: LOA 161.5 m., draft 7.92 m.
corn Jetty No. 7: LOA 173.7 m., draft 7.92 m.
Storage capacity: 80,000 tonnes silo capacity There are sufficient pipes for discharge.
Year built/last modified: 1980 Tankers in Suez discharging bunkers and changing crew do so at the Suez
Designed loading rate/t.p.h.: Discharge by unloaders on Offshore Terminal or the Suez Petroleum Basin.
Observer Quay Oil Storage: There is ample tank storage for bulk petroleum products.
7,000 tonnes/day
Discharge by unloaders on Suez Offshore Terminal: The terminal is situated in Suez Roads.
Asswan Quay 5,000 tonnes/day. Offshore: 65,000 d.w.t., LOA 250 m., draft 10.37 m.
Potable fresh water available: Yes, by barges Presently one berth used by tankers chartered by EGPC. Minimum depth
Formerly known as: Bur Said of water at LWOS in the approach channel and alongside the berth is 11.58 m.
Dock access by vehicle permitted: Yes There are six pipelines:
Is bunkering permitted alongside?: Yes, by barges 4 lines ␺ 20 in.
Owner/Operator of elevator: Port Said Port Authority 2 lines ␺ 16 in.
AUTHORITY: Port Said Port Authority, Mustafa Kamal and Azmey 1 line ␺ 4 in. (fresh water).
Street, Railway Square, Port Said, Egypt. Tel: +20 (66) 224613, 223892. Maximum amount handled at a time 45,000 tons, naphtha discharge rate
FAX: +20 (66) 235913. Telex: 63228 PORTA UN. Contact: Admiral 900 t.p.h.
M Maged Hamza, Chairman. Facilities are available for reception of ballast. There is a charge for the
service.
Also see ‘‘Berths’’.
PORT SUEZ (Bur el Suweis), including Adabiya: CARGO HANDLING FACILITIES:
29␥ 58' N 032␥ 33' E (See Plan) Storage Capacity: 7,025 sq.m.
While stacking spaces on the quays is 33,540.4 sq.m.
Also see Suez Canal.
STEVEDORES: Vessels requiring stevedores should notify the ship’s
OVERVIEW: A multipurpose port handling both wet and dry cargoes split Agent of the requirement when forwarding ETA prior to arrival. As stated in
into four areas: Port Ibraham, Port Tewfik, Petroleum Basin and Offshore the ETA messages, Masters are advised to include in their messages details
Terminal. There is a further satellite port Adabiya to the west of Port Suez. of cargo to be discharged in Port Suez, hatch by hatch and gangways
LOCATION: At the southern boundary of Suez Canal. It is bordered by required, if possible. All loading and discharging operations in Port Suez
the imaginary line extending from Ras-El-Adabiya to Moussa sources Roads are effected by lighters.
including the north coast until the entrance of Suez Canal. There are steel lighters, and self-propelled barges available for this purpose
that will allow rapid work to be carried out. At Port Said several reefer ships
CHARTS: BA Charts No. 2098 and 3214. are provided with flat floating pontoons to facilitate discharge of cargo.
ISPS COMPLIANCE: Port is compliant.
PFSO: Captain Alie Elshater. Tel: +20 (62) 331119.
Working Hours: The stevedores work throughout 24 hours in three shifts.
Mobile: +20 1017 12535. Cargo Gear: Normally supplied by the stevedores.
Petroleum Basin: Captain Salah Abd Elhameed. Tel: +20 (62) Hatches: As per Charter Party. For vessels carrying out minor cargo
329516/7/8/9. operations, it is customary that stevedores open and close ships’ hatches
MAX. SIZE: LOA 150 m., draft 8.0 m. against ships’ account. It is recommended that ship’s crew should open the
Passengers: LOA 150 m., draft 8.0 m. hatches and rig ship’s derricks whilst entering the harbour in order to be
Ro-Ro: Draft 7.9 m. ready for cargo operations immediately upon arrival.
Tankers: 18,000 d.w.t., LOA 169 m., draft 8.0 m.
Tanker Offshore: 65,000 d.w.t., LOA 250 m., draft 10.37 m. SLOPS DISPOSAL: No refuse or ashes are allowed to be thrown whilst
DENSITY: 1040. ships are moored in Port Said, transiting the Canal or in Suez Roads. Small
barges are available in Port Said and Suez for disposal of garbage or ashes,
PILOTAGE: Compulsory. which craft can be obtained at a reasonable hire.
Also see ‘‘Suez Canal’’.
VHF: Port Control listens on Channel 16 and works on Channels 11, DRY DOCK: Operator: Suez Odense Marine Service (SOMS),
14 and 74. Pilots work on Channel 11 outside and Channel 14 inside the 5 Shohadaa El Yeman Street, Port Tewfik, Suez, Egypt. Tel: +20 (62)
harbour. Operational throughout 24 hours. 220650, 226587. Fax: +20 (62) 227848. Email: suezyad@intouch.com
BERTHS: Facilities: SOMS floating dock capacity 55,000 tonnes and crane capacity
Berth Length Depth Draft Remarks 150 tonnes at Suez. Sufficient notice is required to book the date for either
(No.) (m.) (m.) (m.) the floating dock or the dry dock.
Port Ibrahim:(numbered berths have 6 bollards each) Repair facilities are available at Suez, where a dry dock is suitable to
Northern: accommodate vessels up to 8,000 d.w.t.
A&B 137* 7.6 Ro-Ro (stern to quay) Dimensions:
C 122* 7.9 Ro-Ro (stern to quay) Extreme length to inner sill 141.43 m.
1 150 8.0 7.6 Passenger, bulk, general cargo Breadth at entrance 22.25 m.
2 150 8.0 7.9 Passenger, bulk, general cargo Height of water over keel blocks (Springs) 6.71 m. (F), 8.0 m. (A)
3 150 8.0 7.9 Passenger, bulk, general cargo Height of water over keel blocks (Neaps) 5.79 m. (F), 7.09 m. (A)
4 150 8.0 7.9 Passenger, bulk, lighterage,
general cargo The usual max. draft at which a vessel can use the dry dock is 5.18 m.
5 150 8.0 7.9 Passenger, bulk, lighterage, fore and 6.10 m. aft. Deeper drafts may be arranged with the management.
general cargo
Northern Centre: REPAIRS: Workshops equipped to handle all types of repairs.
6 140 7.5 7.3 Passenger, cargo WEATHER/TIDES: Tidal Range: 2.1 m. springs; 1.2 m. neaps.
7 150 7.5 Passenger, cargo
8 150 7.5 7.47 Passenger, cargo Wind: Prevailing winds are North and NW.
Southern Centre: NEAREST AIRPORT: Cairo International Airport, 100 km.
9 320 5.0 7.47 Passenger, cargo
10 5.0 7.47 Passenger, cargo AGENT’S REPORT: June 1997.
11 5.0 7.47 Passenger, cargo ADABIYA:
Southern 560 5.0 Passenger, cargo Terminal: Berths No. 1, 5, 7, 8 and 9.
Port Tewfik: Distance from sea buoys: 9 km. from Suez Bay
Marakeb Quay 625 8.20 Passenger Length of dock/Length with dolphins: 220 m.
Petroleum Basin: Draft restriction alongside: 13 m.
Jetties No. 1 – 7 169* 8.0 Petroleum products Commodities handled: Cement, palm oil, newsprint,
Suez Offshore Terminal: grains
Tanker Berth 228 11.58 10.37 Naphtha, JP-1, fuel oil, gas oil Storage capacity: Horizontal silo capacity
15,000 tonnes
* LOA of vessel
Year built/last modified: 1989
Ibrahim Dock: Bordered by an imaginary line extending between the two Designed loading rate/t.p.h.: Discharge 100 and 25
breakwaters. Potable fresh water available: Available by barges. Min
Port Tewfik: Located to the east of the main port areas on the southern ordering quantity 200 tons
entrance to the Suez Canal. Formerly known as: Adabiya
Adabiya Port: This port is situated on the western shore of the Suez Bay, Dock access by vehicle permitted: Yes
and is under the control of the naval authorities. Is bunkering permitted alongside?: Yes, by barges
Berth Length Depth Owner/Operator of elevator: Suez Discharging and
(m.) (m.) Mechanical Stevedoring Co
Main Quay 426.7 11.58 – 12.19 Largest vessel loaded: 50,000 d.w.t.
143.3 7.32 – 8.23
137.2 10.97 AUTHORITY: Port Suez, Port Tewfik, PO Box 1, Suez, Egypt.
Grain Quay 198.1 12.19 Tel: +20 (62) 332224, 331123. FAX: +20 (62) 331120.
Cement Quay 10.06 Telex: 66092 RASPAS UN. Email: redseaut@idscl.gov.eg Contact: Admiral
Salah Mohamed El-Welily, President (Email: repite@emdb.gov.eg).
Discharge Rate at Cement Quay (Budr Jetty) is 6,000 – 8,000 tons daily.
EGYPT Ras Budran
RAS BUDRAN: 28␥ 56' N 033␥ 10' E (See Plan) Vessel Trim: Vessel to be trimmed not more than maximum 1.83 m. by the
stern with appropriate ballast to ensure that the propeller is completely
LOCATION: Ras Budran is an open area, unsheltered roadstead. There submerged.
are presently five large storage tanks with a total capacity of 120,000 cu.m., Emergency Towing Wires: Once the tanker is completely moored,
painted a pale yellow colour. To the north of the tank farm is the production emergency towing wires should be rigged aft.
area with ballast receiving and treatment facilities. There is a flare structure HOSES: Hose Connection: 16 in. standard 150 ASA flange connection
SE of the storage tanks and another small flare on the production platform for crude oil and ballast hoses. Port derrick with minimum 10 tons SWL rigged
in position Lat. 28␥ 58.2' N, Long. 33␥ 07.8' E, located 2.3 miles north of SBM. for max. height and load lifting.
Vessel will moor to an SBM located 2.3 miles off Ras Budran Lighthouse Ship’s crew shall be responsible for connecting and disconnecting hoses,
on a bearing of 260␥(T). with assistance of shore crew.
The yellow painted SBM is located in a water depth 34.0 m. in position A quick-release coupling (camlock) is connected to each hose end and is
Lat. 28␥ 56' 05" N, Long. 33␥ 07' 49" E. to be used as follows:
The SBM has an orange light, visible 5 miles and horn signal ‘‘U’’ range 1. in case of emergency the butterfly valve shall be immediately closed
2 nautical miles. and quick-release coupling immediately disconnected
Cargo vessels can be loaded and/or discharged alongside the jetty at Ras 2. do not hammer but try to use the camlock wrench supplied or use
Budran. The length of the jetty is 120 m. and the depth of the water is 6.0 m. copper hammer only
CHARTS: BA Chart No. 2373. 3. tanker should be ready with reducer if it’s manifold is not 16 in.
4. bags of sand to be available
ISPS COMPLIANCE: Port is compliant. 5. weight of the hose is approximately 6 tons.
MAX. SIZE: 35,000 – 250,000 S.d.w.t., LOA 152 – 344 m., draft 18.0 m. Watch-Keeping: During connecting and/or disconnecting the hoses, a
DENSITY: 1030. responsible officer should attend the operation.
RESTRICTIONS: Weather conditions may prevent berthing when wind During loading, whether the weather condition is rough or calm, a
speed exceeds 25 knots. Vessel will then remain in the anchorage until responsible officer must be on deck checking on mooring gears at the fo’c’sle.
weather improves. Daylight berthing only. Unberthing throughout 24 hours. CARGO OPERATIONS: Upon being informed by the vessel’s
Also see ‘‘Weather/Tides’’. responsible officer that vessel is ready to start loading, Mooring Master will
PILOTAGE: Suez Oil Company (SUCO) Pilot/Mooring Master boards normally advise the control room and ensure that the loading commences at
approximately 2.0 nautical miles west of SBM with mooring gangs. Pilot will a low rate (by gravity).
normally meet and embark incoming vessels at Lat. 28␥ 51' N, When it has been confirmed that there is no significant rise in pressure on
Long. 33␥ 06' E. Vessel provides leeside on a course away from the shore. the loading line, the crude oil will be loaded, pumping with a maximum rate
Pilot ladder and/or accommodation ladder should be kept in good order, of 6,000 tonnes/hr.
cleaned and should be of adequate length and strength. Ladder should be Crude oil is delivered through the submarine pipeline to the buoy and
provided with a safety line. A light shall be provided at night so that the pilot thence via a floating hose to the vessel’s port side midship manifold. Hose
ladder is adequately lit. diameter is generally 24 in., changing at the ship’s end to 16 in.
When Mooring Master boards, he will advise the ship’s Master, on the Prior to topping-off the final tank or tanks, the ship’s Officer-In-Charge
approach to the SBM, arrangements for mooring and unmooring, connecting should, through the Mooring Master, arrange for a reduction in loading rate
of the hoses and all other operations within the mooring area. The Mooring prior to the requirement.
Master will submit and receive from the Master all forms, documents and Loading rate should be reduced by half at least 30 minutes prior to stopping
papers required, to be filled in and signed or received by the ship’s Master. loading. On advice from the ship, at least 3 minutes is required to close shore
valves to stop the flow of oil.
ANCHORAGES: SUCO will make every effort to moor ships arriving It is forbidden to close any valve onboard the tanker against the flow of
according to the agreed schedules as promptly as operational circumstances
the crude oil until the butterfly valve of the loading hose has been closed.
permit.
All deck scuppers shall be plugged and drip trays in place prior to
If mooring is not possible, vessel will anchor in anchorage area in position commencing any cargo operations.
Lat. 28␥ 52.5' N, Long. 33␥ 06.9' E. All cargo tank lids to be closed and vapour line system to be used for
Area within 1 nautical mile radius of this area has been surveyed and is venting.
considered clear of any obstruction. Anchoring outside the area is strictly If ship-to-shore communications fail during loading operations the
prohibited. emergency whistle signal is a continuous blast on the tanker’s whistle.
The ground at anchorage area is sandy mud. Loading shall immediately be stopped and will not be resumed until
PRATIQUE: Masters are to indicate in their ETA, notification of any communications have been re-established.
sickness on board. SUCO will arrange with Health Authorities if so required. Before loading, cargo tanks are dipped by an independent Inspector and
PRE-ARRIVAL INFORMATION: 72 hours, 48 hours and 24 hours a terminal inspector. If dirty ballast is retained on board until the next
prior to vessel’s Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA), the vessel should send discharge port then amount of water and oil on top will be checked.
their ETA to the SUCO head office (attention P and F) General Manager. Density of Ras Budran Crude is approximately 0.900/15␥C. Temperature
12 hour and 6 hour messages to be sent through Ras Budran Radio on when received on board approximately 31␥C.
VHF Channels 12 and 16. Closed Loading: All cargo tank lids are to be kept closed, and the vapour
All ships’ Masters are kindly requested to hand the following original line system is used for venting.
documents to the SUCO Mooring Master upon his arrival on board: BALLAST: Deballasting System: There are two ballast tanks, holding
Certificate of Registry approximately 22,000 cu.m.
Load Line Certificate It is preferable that vessels load crude oil while discharging ballast, but
Safety Certificate. Master or Officer-in-Charge must be sure that no contamination or pollution
The above documents will be returned when the cargo documents are takes place.
delivered on board the vessel. If the vessel is not equipped with two lines in order to load and deballast
VHF: Budran Radio listens on Channel 16 and works on at the same time, a quantity of crude should be loaded prior to deballasting
Channel 12 throughout 24 hours. to ensure proper segregation.
Marine Budran Radio works on Channel 74 from 0700 – 1800 hrs. Dirty ballast must not be in the emulsion form and is not to contain
The terminal listens on Channel 16 and works on Channel 12. chemicals or detergents.
TUGS: 2␺1,000 h.p. mooring boats available to assist with mooring and Deballasting will be effected by ship’s pumps delivering the ballast water
hose connection. Tugs are equipped for anti-pollution operations. to the dedicated submarine ballast line.
One firefighting tug is available on a standby basis whilst loading operations The floating hose is normally 20 in. diameter, and the ship’s end connection
is 16 in. diameter. Deballasting rate 3,000 t.p.h.
are in progress.
It is strictly forbidden to discharge dirty ballast overboard.
BERTHS: All mooring equipment is available and will be placed onboard 25 cents will be charged per tonne of dirty ballast water discharged to Zeit
the vessel when Mooring Master boards. Bay deballasting facilities.
A vessel may make the final approach and moor to buoy from any direction
bearing in mind prevailing weather and tidal conditions. The approach shall
POLLUTION: The Master has to comply with all regulations and
instructions prohibiting pollution under ARE laws and under any pertinent
be made from the direction which is consistent with a safe approach and instructions issued by SUCO when conveyed to Master.
speed shall be subject to the prevailing forces (i.e. wind, current and tidal Also the provisions for International Convention for Prevention of Pollution
stream) at the location at the time of berthing with the assistance from mooring from Vessels 1973 and the Protocol of 1978 relating to this connection will
boats stationed at the buoy. be applied to the extent that such Convention and Protocol are in force in
Once moored the vessel is free to turn through 360␥ under the influence ARE. Owner/operator shall be liable for any damage resulting from the
of the prevailing forces. pollution caused by the vessel and shall pay for all the expenses incurred
A Deck Officer must be on the fo’c’sle from the time the Mooring Master for its removal and elimination.
boards the vessel until the vessel is finally moored.
Oil Spill: In the event of a spill or its detection, SUCO Mooring Master must
During the time the ship is moored, the engine must be ready with full be notified instantly for the necessary action to be taken.
power for immediate use.
Notice of Readiness (NOR): Arrival time will be considered the time the MEDICAL: In case urgent medical assistance is required the vessel should
contact SUCO Marine Manager by VHF radio. A doctor and medical facilities
vessel arrives at anchorage area.
are available but no hospital in the area.
NOR will be accepted when the vessel is ready in all respects to receive
her cargo, when moored to the SBM and hoses have been connected. FRESH WATER: Not available.
Responsibility: At all times the ship’s Master will be held responsible for FUEL: Not available.
his own ship, in addition to the safety of the SBM. REPAIRS: Not available.
The company Mooring Master will advise the vessel’s Master in respect Immobilisation of engines at SBM not permitted.
to hazards. This is subject to the understanding that in all cases and FIRE PRECAUTIONS: A continuous and efficient fire watch must be
circumstances the ship’s Master shall remain, solely responsible, on behalf kept on deck and in the engine room whilst the vessel is moored.
of his Owner and/or Charterers for the safety and correct manoeuvring of his In the event of a fire, however minor, the fire alarm must be sounded
ship. immediately. Extinguishing the fire is the Master’s responsibility, but SUCO
In case of any damage, the ship’s Master shall co-operate fully to enable will render all possible assistance with the tug that is fully equipped for
the Marine Manager and other authorities to investigate and survey such firefighting.
damage. TIME: GMT plus 2 hours in winter and plus 3 hours in summer.
Vessel Refusal: SUCO reserves the right to decline to moor a specific LOCAL HOLIDAYS: Ras Budran Terminal does not close for religious
vessel should it consider that such vessel’s condition or facilities are unsafe. holidays.
Ras Budran EGYPT
WEATHER/TIDES: Gales can be expected from a north-westerly BERTHS: There is an ore pier where vessels may berth with
direction from October through May. max. draft of 11 ft. without any restrictions in length. Vessels with deeper
Maximum weather condition for keeping the vessel on SBM is 40 knots. draft may discharge whilst at anchorage on to supply boats.
The above conditions are only for guidance and are not relevant to the Two cranes are available with capacities of 30 tons and 35 tons. Towage
safety of the vessel but the safety of the buoy. is also available.
The Mooring Master shall have the authority to decide whether the ship TANKER FACILITIES:
should remain or vacate the buoy. Sea Berth Sea Berth Sea Berth
Climate: The climate in the Gulf of Suez is generally good. The visibility is No. 1 No. 2 No. 3
usually excellent with few dust storms and infrequent fog. There are a few Depth at the berth 27 ft. 36 ft. 78 ft.
rain squalls. Max. permissible draft 20 ft. 27 ft. 55 ft.
Winds: The general flow of the wind over this part of the Gulf of Suez is Max. length for tanker 400 ft. 500 ft. 980 ft.
predominantly from the NNW Winds are steadier in the summer months Min. length for tanker 350 ft. 500 ft. 600 ft.
(May-October) and almost nil from June to September. Gales can mainly be Diameter of crude hose 8 in. 10 in. 12 in.
expected from a north-westerly direction from October through May. Diameter of water hose 8 in. 10 in. 12 in.
The maximum velocity is approximately 45 knots, whilst the mean wind Min. capacity of
speed is approximately 20 knots and is prevalent for some 98% of the year. tanker’s derrick 5 tons 5 tons 5 tons
There are occasional light southerly winds. Loading capacity (t.p.h.) 650 1,200 2,000
Max. permissible load (tons) 8,000 20,000 130,000
Tidal Range: The tidal range is from 0.9 – 1.2 m.
Sea Condition: The surface temperature of the sea ranges from 18 – 27␥C Cargo: Ras Gharib Blend: API 21.0. Loading temperature 92␥F/33␥C.
depending on the season. Moorings: Vessels require 20 mooring ropes of 220 m. length for sending to
Seas and swells are usually from the NNW and wave height can reach 6 buoys, and 4 spare ropes.
5.49 m. but average is about 1.83 m. During the summer months Ballast: Discharge rate 1,500 t.p.h. through 12 in. hose and 16 in. line.
(May/August) there are many day’s of 3.96 – 4.57 m. seas. FRESH WATER: Not available.
Currents are generally located in mid-channel and set north when the tide FUEL: Not available.
is rising in Suez and south when the tide is falling. The rate is about 1.5 knots CUSTOMS: Present regulations allow each seaman to retain in his
at springs and 0.5 knots at neaps. possession a max. of 50 cigarettes or 1 ounce of tobacco or 5 cigars. All
NEAREST AIRPORT: St. Catherine International Airport, 100 km. other smoking items must be collected and listed before arrival. The list will
SHORE LEAVE: There is no shore leave for personnel of vessels whilst be checked by Customs before sealing the locker, and any discrepancies
at the terminal. will be subject to fines.
REPATRIATION: Possible in an emergency only. GENERAL: Supplies: Transit and fresh provisions as well as deck and
engine stores provided by the United Arab Contracting and Marine Supply
GENERAL: Storing: Not possible at the SBM. Company (Cunsup).
Helicopter: Should the services of a helicopter be required in emergency AUTHORITY: Egyptian General Petroleum Company, Ras Gharib,
or for any purpose whatsoever, the vessel will be given a minimum of Egypt. Tel: 20-65-446315. Telex: 92998 Petgn Un. Cables: Petrogen.
30 minutes’ notice. Contact: Captain Mohamed El Sayed Fattoutt.
AUTHORITY: Suez Oil Company (SUCO), 21 Ahmed Orabi Street,
PO Box 2622, Cairo, Egypt. Tel: +20 (2) 346 6377, 346 5909, 346 7922,
347 8948. FAX: +20 (2) 303 5434, 346 2571. Telex: 93455 SUCO UN, RAS SHUKHEIR: 28␥ 08' N 033␥ 17' E (See Plan)
92300 SUCO UN. Cable: DEXGULF. Contact: Captain Ayman Nassef,
P and F General Manager. OVERVIEW: Terminal consists of a sea berth, pier and anchorage and
handles primarily tankers and gas vessels.
LOCATION: In NE Egypt, on the SW bank of the Gulf of Suez.
RAS GHARIB: 28␥ 21' N 033␥ 06' E (See Plan) DOCUMENTS:
2 Bonded Store Lists
6 Crew Lists
LOCATION: A natural port at the western side of Suez Gulf sheltered by Derat Certificate
the Cape and a chain of reefs. Last Port Clearance
DOCUMENTS: Ports of Call List
4 copies Crew List. 2 Passenger Lists
Derat Certificate should be handy for inspection. Quarantine Questionnaire in duplicate (Form No. 15 QA) showing all ports
Clearance from Last Port. of call, as well as dates of sailings for the last 30 days, nature of cargo on
Bonded Store List, in duplicate. board, destination, as well as sickness among crew or passengers, if any,
Crew List and Passengers’ List in duplicate. especially if it is presumed that the sick will be hospitalised. These forms can
Quarantine Questionnaire in duplicate (Form No. 15 Q.A.) showing all ports be filled on arrival if not available on board before arrival. Quarantine officials
of call, as well as dates of sailings for the last 30 days, nature of cargo on board with Agent. No Customs formalities. Bond not sealed.
board, destination, as well as sickness among crew or passengers, if any, ISPS COMPLIANCE: Port is compliant.
specially when it is presumed that the sick will be hospitalised. These forms MAX. SIZE: Tankers: LOA 304.8 m., draft 19.51 m.
can be filled on arrival if not available on board before arrival. Gas: Draft 7.32 m.
ISPS COMPLIANCE: Port is compliant. RESTRICTIONS: Terminal operates 24 hours per day, 7 days a week.
RESTRICTIONS: Berthing and unberthing in daylight only. Ships are loaded and unmoored at any hour, weather and other
PILOTAGE: Compulsory. International Pilot flag must be hoisted and Pilot circumstances permitting. Vessels are moored during daylight hours only,
however, an exception may be made at the discretion of the terminal.
will board vessel on arrival. Vessels should approach the anchorage from
There are a number of oil well installations, structures and submarine
south-eastward and wait southward of the Prohibited Anchorage until boarded pipelines located in the Gulf of Suez opposite Ras Shukheir Terminal and
by the Harbour Master who will pilot them either to moorings or to an approaching vessels are warned of these obstacles in manoeuvring and
anchorage clear of the prohibited area of the pipelines. anchoring.
2 pairs of leading beacons stand about 4 and 5.5 cables, beside 3 others
that stand about 12 cables southward of Ras Gharib light-structure. About PILOTAGE: Compulsory. International Pilot Flag must be hoisted and Pilot
will board vessel on arrival. Ras Shukheir Lighthouse is located in
2 cables further southward are 2 leading beacons. All the above beacons are
Lat. 28␥ 08' 15" N, Long. 33␥ 16' 20" E. It is a white flashing light, flashing
difficult to identify until close inshore.
every 3 seconds and visible for 10 miles.
Waiting Area: Within 1 miles radius of Lat. 28␥ 20' N., Long. 33␥ 08' E. Gebal Gharib, situated about 18 n.m. to SW, 5,742 ft. high, makes a nearly
ANCHORAGES: Ras Gharib Anchorage, south-westward of the Cape, perfect equilateral triangle with Ras Shukheir and Ras Gharib Lighthouse.
affords some shelter, but a moderate swell round the Cape is experienced Ras Gharib Lighthouse is an excellent landmark whether by day or night for
on most days. Vessels can obtain anchorage in depths of about 5 fathoms. vessels approaching from north, but caution should be exercised since this
During most of the year there are northerly winds, Force 3 – 5, but in Light is obscured from 308␥ to the westward. The sea-berth buoys are unlit.
December and January there are occasionally calms. On very rare occasions, The Company’s Mooring Master will meet all incoming tankers
there are southerly gales of short duration which make the anchorage approximately 2 n.m. from Ras Shukheir Terminal on a bearing of
untenable. 290␥/300␥ from Ras Shukheir Lighthouse and will advise ship’s personnel in
The northerly wind causes some swell in the anchorage, but it is not mooring and unmooring, raising and lowering of hoses.
normally severe enough to interfere with the working of lighters or boats of Vessels are requested to have a pilot ladder safely and securely rigged,
moderate size. It is, however, unpleasant for small boats, except alongside ready for immediate use, and long enough to reach the Mooring Master’s
the piers, which are well protected. launch. If at night, adequate lighting must be rigged overside for the Mooring
N.N.W. winds of 20 m./sec (40 knots) are experienced in summer but it is Master to approach the side and climb the ladder safely.
mostly calm in winter. Care should be taken if wind changes to west and Shipmaster’s Report: February 1993.
even more care should be taken if wind shifts to south. The Pilot/Mooring Master boarded 1.5 n.m. abeam of berth. He remains
Except in the vicinity of the piers, there is usually some swell on the on board until the vessel leaves the berth.
beaches. There is practically no rainfall and sand storms occur only very ANCHORAGES: Do not anchor north of the sea berth.
occasionally and they do not interfere with work in the anchorage. Shipmaster’s Report: March 1991.
Anchorage is prohibited, owing to the existence of pipelines, within an area Tankers should only anchor in Ras Shukheir Anchorage Area, 4.4 n.m.
indicated by pecked lines on the chart. NW of El Lighthouse (See BA Chart No. 2374), in position Lat. 28␥ 16' 25" N,
PRATIQUE: On entering, vessels must hoist the International Quarantine Long. 33␥ 30' E.
Signal for compulsory quarantine. Any sickness must be reported to the PRATIQUE: The vessel’s personnel should carry international vaccination
doctor, specially when it is presumed that the sick will be hospitalised. and/or inoculation certificates.
The vessel’s personnel should carry international vaccination and/or PRE-ARRIVAL INFORMATION: EGPC (Supply Sector) requires
inoculation certificates. 72 hours’, 48 hours’ and 24 hours’ notice of arrival.
PRE-ARRIVAL INFORMATION: E.G.P.C. (Supply Sector) and The Alexandria or Port Said coast radio stations will handle GUPCO radio
terminal require 72 hours, 48 hours and 24 hours notice of arrival. traffic. Ships may contact GUPCO through their cable address ‘‘Gupcoil
Cairo’’. The message will be received on their Cairo Radio Telegraph Office
VHF: General Petroleum Co. on Channel 16. local teleprinter circuit, tape perforated and relayed to the Ras Shukheir
TUGS: 2 tugs, 400 h.p. and 80 h.p. available. Terminal.
EGYPT Ras Shukheir
Cables from Ras Shukheir Terminal to the ships would be handled in the 8. Tanker’s Valves: Tanker’s valves must not be closed against incoming
same manner. The Alexandria or Port Said coast radio stations transmit traffic oil stream. Rate should be reduced by half, at least 15 minutes before
lists at regular intervals listing the call signs of all ships for which they have stop loading. At least 3 minutes are required to close shore valves to
traffic on hand. Thus any ship hearing its call sign in the traffic list of the stop flow of oil.
coast station would call the coast station immediately after the traffic list. 9. Emergency Communications: If ship-to-shore communications fail, the
It is important that ships establish radio contact with ‘‘GUPCO’’ (Gulf of emergency whistle signal is a continuous blast on tanker’s whistle.
Suez Petroleum Co.) when 3 days distant from terminal and maintain this Steam or air should never be shut off from the whistle during loading.
contact until just previous to arrival at the terminal. All ships should send a 10. Responsibility: The tanker’s Master is responsible at all times for the
72 hour ETA message to ‘‘Panintoil Cairo’’ giving the best estimate of ship’s safety of all the ship’s operations. The Company Mooring Master will
arrival time at the terminal. This ETA message should also include a definite advise the Master in respect to loading pressure and hazard, but will
statement of the details of any equipment required from shore for connecting not direct the loading except as may be necessary to protect the
submarine hoses to ship’s manifold. All ETA messages should be sent to Terminal facilities. Ras Shukheir Terminal rules and regulations do
appointed Suez Agent (with copies to ‘‘Gupco Cairo’’) when the vessel is not contravene International Safety Rules such as SOLAS (Safety of
24 hours and 12 hours distant from Ras Shukheir and at any other time any Life at Sea) or other maritime regulations, such as those of appropriate
appreciable change occurs in the original ETA or those subsequent thereto. classification societies. In case of any conflict, the latter shall apply.
The 12 hour ETA should include a positive statement regarding ship’s CRANES: Four cranes with capacities of 15, 30, 40 and 50 tons
readiness to load on arrival and the number of hours that will be required to respectively are available together with floating crane with capacity up to
discharge ballast after ship is berthed in mooring. 200 tons. Towage is also available.
6 hours prior to arrival, tankers should call Ras Shukheir on VHF Channel FRESH WATER: Not available.
16 to be advised if berthing is available or not, also to be advised of the FUEL: Not available.
approximate time for berthing. CHANDLERY: Transit and fresh provisions as well as deck and engine
stores provided by United Arab Contracting and Marine Supply Co.
VHF: When ships are near Ras Shukheir Terminal, they may use their LOCAL HOLIDAYS: The terminal will never be closed due to Religious
FM/VHF radios to contact the Terminal using Channel 16. Holidays.
REPATRIATION: Not recommended.
BERTHS: One pier where vessels with max. LOA 76 m. are allowed to
berth alongside with a max. draft of 5.03 m. Vessels may discharge whilst SHIPMASTER’S REPORT: February 1993.
at anchorage and propeller type lighters are available for such cargo Anchorage: Ras Shukheir Anchorage Area is designated on B.A. Chart
operations. No. 2374 (Lat. 28␥ 16' 25" N, Long. 33␥ 33' 00" E.).
The holding ground is mud and very good.
The anchorage can be approached from north of Morgan Oilfield or from
TANKER FACILITIES: south past Felix Jones Patches and between the oilfield and the shore.
Seaberth No. 1 No. 2 Tankers: Seaberth No. 1: Max. draft 19.5 m.
Depth (m.) 28.95 28.95 Seaberth No. 2: Max. draft 19.2 m.
Max. draft (m.) 19.50 17.07 Ballast: All ballast from cargo oil tanks must be discharged ashore through
Max. length for tankers (m.) 304.8 304.8 the ballast line at a cost of U.S.$ 0.25 per metric ton.
Min. length for tankers (m.) 228.6 228.6 Moorings: All wires to have rope tails. The winch serving Buoy No. 1 should
Numbers of crude hoses 3 3 have an extra wire married on. The winch serving Buoy No. 7 should have
Diameter of crude hoses (in.) 12 12 a mooring rope married on.
Diameter of ballast hose (in.) 12 12 Supplies: Fresh provisions are brought from Suez at a transportation charge
Min. capacity of tanker’s derrick (tons) 5 5 of U.S.$ 50.00. They are of good quality.
Loading capacity (t.p.h.) 6,000 4,000 Shipchandler: The Egyptian Marine Supply and Contracting Co.
Max. permissible load (tons) 150,000 270,000 Telex: 66132 Consup Un.
OPERATOR: Gulf of Suez Petroleum Co. – GUPCO, (PO Box 2400)
Cargo: Gulf of Suez Mix Crude Oil is approximately 0.875/15␥C. Temperature Palestine Street, 4th District, New Maadi, Cairo, Egypt. Tel: +20 (2)
when received on board is approximately 32␥C (March). 352 0060. FAX: +20 (2) 352 1286. Telex: 92248 Gupco Un.
Submarine Hose Loading Berth: Tanker is loaded by means of Cables: Gupcooil, Cairo. Email: info@egpc.com.eg Web: www.egpc.com.eg
submarine pipelines to which are attached 2 or 3 hoses for loading and 1 hose Contact: Dr. Farouk Kenawi, Chairman. Captain Hassan Hafez, Marine
for discharging ballast. A 36 in. pipeline transports the oil and a 24 in. line in Division Manager.
No. 1 Seaberth, or 16 in. line in No. 2 Seaberth transports the dirty ballast to
a ballast pit ashore. The loading berths are located approximately 1,091.2 m.
offshore in a water depth of approximately 28.96 m. The loading and ballast SADAT: 29␥ 46' N 032␥ 26' E
lines are laid in the same trench and run in a direction 055␥(T). The mooring
buoys are numbered 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 (on the port bow) and running OVERVIEW: Tanker terminal.
consecutively in a clockwise direction. LOCATION: In position Lat. 29␥ 47.5' N, Long. 32␥ 26.5' E, in an open
anchorage on the west coast in the Gulf of Suez, approximately 11 n.m.
LPG/LNG FACILITIES: Sea Berth No. 4, for loading LPG tankers is south of Suez.
located 6 n.m. south of Ras Shukheir lighthouse. CHARTS: BA Charts No. 2132, 2133 and 2373.
The Channel Entrance is marked by one radar reflecting (turning buoy),
6 pontoon guiding light buoys with radar reflectors, 3 green lights located on DOCUMENTS:
the starboard side of the channel, and 3 red lights on the port side of the 4 Crew Lists
channel. Flashing characteristic of the signal is ‘‘U’’ with 3.6 second intervals. 2 Stores Lists
The max. water depth in the channel and the berth is 24 ft. The berth consists 2 Vaccination Lists.
of 4 mooring buoys, 8 loading hoses and 6 vapour hoses. ISPS COMPLIANCE: Port is compliant.
The max. capacity of vessels using this berth is 1,600 tons with a length MAX. SIZE: 60,000 d.w.t., LOA 244 m. and draft 12.8 m.
no greater than 100.6 m. Max. draft after loading is 5.18 m. DENSITY: 1032.
Notice of Readiness: The company will make every effort to load vessels RESTRICTIONS: Mooring/unmooring during daylight only. Vessels must
upon arrival or as promptly as berth is available, weather permitting. Notice have 274 m. of chain on each anchor.
of Readiness will not be accepted as at time of arrival unless the vessel is Also see ‘‘Mooring’’.
in all respects ready to load. Arrival time will be considered as the time the APPROACHES: Tankers must approach the berth from the east, never
Mooring Master boards the vessel or the time that vessel anchors, whichever from the north, and must follow the same track on their departure to pass
occurs first. clear of the shallow water.
PILOTAGE: Pilot boards at the anchorage.
CARGO OPERATIONS: ANCHORAGES: In position Lat. 29␥ 46.5' N, Long. 32␥ 29.7' E.
1. Disposal of Ballast: No dirty ballast will be pumped overboard. PRE-ARRIVAL INFORMATION: It is essential that vessels bound for
Separate ballast disposal lines are available at terminal to pump Sadat Terminal give 72 hours, 48 hours and 24 hours’ Notice of Arrival to
ballast to pit onshore, where oil and water can be separated and both ‘‘Petsmisr Cairo 92049 UN’’ and ‘‘Petbel 92449 UN’’, to be accepted on
disposal made (24 in. at Berth No. 1 and 18 in. at Berth No. 2). The the berth without delay.
maximum pressure allowed on the ballast line is 150 p.s.i., which
should not be exceeded.
VHF: Contact Sadat on Channel 16 when in range. There is no radio station
at the terminal.
2. Notice of Arrival: Incoming tankers must send ETA at least 72 hours
Pilots work on Channel 69.
before arrival at Ras Shukheir. Local time is Greenwich Mean Time
Channels 16 and 69 are used for communications between the tanker and
plus 2 hours. All time reports must be stated in local time.
pumping station.
3. Anchorage: All vessels are prohibited from anchoring outside the
anchorage area and if necessary should anchor inside it. The TUGS: 1␺2,250 h.p. tug available for mooring/unmooring operations.
anchorage area is a circle one mile diameter. The centre is 4.4 n.m. BERTHS: Depth at mooring 22.11 m.
from El Tor Lighthouse on a bearing of NW from it. Anchorage MOORING: Two mooring launches available. Both ship’s anchors are
co-ordinates are Lat. 28␥ 16' 25" N, Long. 33␥ 33' 00" E. used, the starboard anchor first, normally 247 – 274 m. in the water on each.
4. Tankers to have ready windlass and both power anchors, each with At the stern, three ropes are run from the ship’s starboard side and one rope
not less than 150 fathoms of chain; at least 10 good nylon, synthetic, from the port side to the mooring buoys. Special care should be taken when
or wire mooring lines, each not less than 366 m. in length with efficient mooring in southerly winds. If there is a strong wind, berthing may be delayed.
stoppers for each line TANKER FACILITIES: Tankers loading at the berth will be connected
5. On port side opposite ship’s manifold, there must be equipment to the shore pumping station by submarine hoses for pumping crude oil
capable of lifting submarine hoses safely and efficiently. Weight of lift (1␺16 in. hose from the port side). There is 1␺30 in. lined submarine pipeline
is 5 tons per hose running from the PLEM to shore pumping station.
6. Pumps for deballasting prior to or simultaneously with taking on oil. Position: Lat. 29␥ 45.57' N, Long. 32␥ 26.5' E.
Pressure drop in ballast line is approximately 150 p.s.i. at flow rate Sea Lines: 32 in. and 20 in.
of 12,000 bbls./hr. Tanker Length: 241 m.
7. Crew Duties: The tanker’s crew will perform all operations aboard Max. Loading Rate: 1,800 t.p.h.
tanker under supervision of Gupco’s crew. FRESH WATER: Not available.
Sadat EGYPT
FUEL: Not available. vessel is clear of dangers. On the 5th buoy, which is (single) on vessel’s
DRY DOCK: See ‘‘Port Said’’. starboard side vessel can turn out of the channel and proceed to any place
outside the 310␥ lead.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Ras Sudr Domestic, 35 km., Cairo International, 2. Discharging grain, draft limit 36 ft. 6 in. With 30 ft., vessel shifts to Berth
110 km. No. 2 to finish. Daily rate of discharge is about 3,600 tonnes.
AUTHORITY: Petrobel, 5 El Mokhayem El Dayem Street, (PO Box 3. Water comes by pipeline from Nile River not by barge from Suez.
No. 7074), Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt. Tel: +20 (2) 263 6384, 264 4444, 4. Berthing: Use starboard anchor. A motorboat takes first 2 headropes
262 1738. FAX: +20 (2) 260 9792, 263 6384, 261 4380. then 2 stern ropes ashore and then heave the ship alongside. Pilots are
Telex: PETBL 92449-92373 UN. Contact: Ibrahim K Assawi, Operations careful.
General Manager. Captain Mohamed Mouuawad, Marine Operations Mooring: Have 3 headropes, 2 breastlines and 1 spring ready (same aft).
Manager (Tel: +20 (2) 402 4610 (Office), Mobile: +20 (10) 140 6130 (after When shifting from Berth No. 1 to No. 2 ship does not shift along the berth
hours)). but makes a new berthing due to anchor.
SHIPMASTER’S REPORT: January 1983.
Pilotage: The Harbour Master has ceased allocating anchorage and ships
SAFAGA: 26␥ 46' N 034␥ 00' E (See Plan) now anchor wherever they like inside bay. Our vessel is 610 ft. long and
drawing 36 ft. 6 in. and like your earlier report arrived and anchored half a
OVERVIEW: Port handles bulk grain, alumina, phosphates, cement and mile south of Morewood Beacon at 2140 hrs. and moved up to anchor four
general cargo. cables from grain berth in the morning. Passage over reef crossing bay (apart
LOCATION: On east coast of Egypt, on NW shore of the Red Sea. from clearly shown leads) is now marked by four mooring buoys and channel
DOCUMENTS: The following documents are required on arrival: is 13 m. depth.
Quarantine Questionnaire in duplicate (Form No. 15 Q.A.) showing all Berthing: There is now a 900 h.p. tug to assist. The new berth towards the
ports of call, as well as dates of sailings for the last 30 days, nature of Naval Wharf is nearing completion. We berthed at No. 1 drawing 11.13 m.
cargo on board, destination, as well as sickness among crew or with barges between ship and quay.
passengers, if any, specially when it is presumed that the sick will be Fresh Water: Service is prompt when needed.
hospitalised. These forms can be filled on arrival if not available on SHIPMASTER’S REPORT: March 1988.
board before arrival Approaches: BA Chart No. 3043. Vessels approaching from the south
Clearance from Last Port should keep on Ras Abu Soma which shows up well on Radar at about
Complete set of Manifests covering all cargo on board showing names 24 miles. Panorama Reef Beacon shows up well on Radar at about 10 miles.
of shippers and consignees Safaga Beacon bearing 265␥ gives a good echo on Radar at 24 miles.
4 Crew Lists After coming abeam of Panorama Reef Beacon at a distance of 2 miles
1 Deck Log Books (showing date of last call at an ARE port, completed to the north, steer 211␥ passing abeam of Morewood Beacon at a distance
up to the time of arrival at Port Said or Suez) of about 9 cables. Morewood Beacon shows up well on Radar at about
Derat (Exemption) Certificate (should be handy for inspection) 14 miles. Cnsult soundings continuously as vessel has to anchor 1 mile south
4 Lists of Passengers in Transit of Morewood Beacon. This is on the instructions of the Pilot (VHF Channel
1 Passenger List. 16), who always boards in the roads from a tug. Entering the harbour with
ISPS COMPLIANCE: Port is compliant. Pilot is compulsory. There are no difficulties and no significant current was
MAX. SIZE: Bulk: LOA 285 m., draft 12.80 m. experienced. The tide is considerable. The roads have good holding ground.
PILOTAGE: Compulsory. International pilot flag must be hoisted and Pilot Weather conditions are mostly good. Visibility also good. No rain, drizzle
will board vessel on arrival. Vessel should endeavour to arrive at the N. end on no more than a few days a year.
of the island by sunrise, at Safaga Port by early morning; the light behind If approach is adjusted for dawn the reefs show up clearly.
them will show up the reefs clearly. Wind, light in the morning, gains strength A conspicuous white cubiform building lies to the south of Safaga Island
during the day, making tying up more difficult. A beacon (Morewood Beacon), at approximate position Lat. 26␥ 42.7' N, Long. 33␥ 59.7' E.
visible a mile off, is erected on the southern spit of the island. After rounding Entering and leaving the Harbour is only possible during daylight hours.
the spit, Masters keep 5 cables clear of visible reefs and enter the harbour The 4 buoys marking the dredged channel of about 14 m. depth, found to
keeping the 2 large beacons to the north of the pier in line. The Manager, or be in the charted position. They are ’’can-shaped’’ unlit mooring buoys with
his representative, of the Safaga Phosphate Company will meet ships in the colour of rust (unpainted). There is another (fifth) buoy on the north side,
launch with instructions on berthing. of same characteristics (uncharted), at approximate position
Lat. 25␥ 43.32' N, Long. 33␥ 57.55' E. The tug is usually made fast to the buoy.
PRATIQUE: On entering, vessels must hoist the International Quarantine The leading beacons can easily be located. There is a conspicuous sharp
Signal for compulsory quarantine. Any sickness must be reported to the
mountain summit far behind (see picture in Pilot Book), in line with the leading
doctor especially when it is presumed that the sick will be hospitalised.
beacons. Vessels sailing from the Harbour disembark the Pilot inside the
The vessel’s personnel should carry international vaccination and/or
Harbour, west of the fifth buoy. Pilot is picked up by a pilot boat.
inoculation certificates.
Accommodation ladder is usually used.
BERTHS: Phosphate: There are two mooring buoys marked B and C Anchoring inside the Harbour (7 shackles in the water), is always with the
and two mooring posts marked A and D. assistance of the Pilot. Good holding ground.
1. The anchor position is marked by a small red or white flag. When
mooring, manila ropes only should be used, as wire ropes can be run
Restrictions: Vessels have to arrive with a max. draft of 36 ft. 6 in.
(11.13 m.) which is the maximum according to local regulations. However,
out afterwards when ship is alongside.
1.0 – 2.0 cm. by head or by stern is not a problem, but if over 2 cm. vessel
2. Due to rocky nature of sea bottom, it is very desirable that ship in
is in trouble. If she is not covered by Charterer’s orders and instructions, a
coming into berth, does not override her anchor, as, if this happens,
big problem could arise against the vessel. Receivers will not accept NOR
chain is apt to foul coral bottom and cause trouble later on.
and Charterer puts vessel ‘‘off-hire’’ for the time she takes to discharge the
3. Endeavour to have all way off ship when anchor position is reached.
quantity corresponding to the said 2 cm. overdraft and the vessel has also
Drop anchor as close to flag as convenient and go astern. If necessary
to pay about USD10.0 per tonne of the quantity discharged up to 11.13 m.
check cable when 2 shackles have been paid out.
alongside berth. This happened to us, but as vessel proved that it was not
4. Run rope to Buoy C, run rope to Buoy B, run rope to Post D, then
responsible, the Egyptian charterers accepted the entire liability for time and
run rope to Post A. Run Spring to S1, S2, S3, and pull alongside.
expenses. Since both Charterers and Receivers are government companies,
Company’s launches will run all ropes.
I did not understand the problem.
5. If wind is blowing strongly off shore, a Spring may be run to S3,
immediately a good rope to Buoy B is made fast. Grain Berth: The new grain berth, close to the Naval Wharf, was completed
6. The best way to reach the anchor position is to steer straight for same, in March 1987. Depth alongside berth is 39 ft., and 36 ft. reported at the south
keeping Buoy C on port side. This will keep vessel clear of Buoy C west end of the berth. Vessels of 225 m. in length are warped ahead when
and when anchor is dropped, the stern should swing clear of this the draft reaches 10.0 m. or less. Berthing is as described in Shipmaster’s
Buoy. If it does not, a rope can be run to S3 and the stern pulled in Report September 1982, paragraph No. 4. One tug assists when berthing.
before falling back on pier. The grain silo has 100,000 tonnes capacity. Trucks continuously load from
7. With anchor dropped as shown, 6 shackles should see No. 1 hatch the silo. The 2 movable modern ‘‘Buhler Miag’’ unloaders with two pipes each,
at the pier, but if chain is slackened carelessly, it may foul bottom and work continuously from 0730 hrs. to 2345 hrs., 7 days a week. When other
be insufficient to reach pier. ships are waiting at the anchorage they may work overtime up to 0200 hrs.
If visibility is very good, a course can be made between the Hyndman and next morning. Discharging is fast, average rate about 8,800 t.p.d.
Cannon Reefs, and altered to bring the beacons referred to into line. There is a plan to accommodate a special 100,000 tonne grain vessel.
Rock phosphate and ground phosphate are loaded at this port for shipment Repatriation: Possible by air from Luxor or Harghada Airport via Cairo or
all over the world. The mines are situated some 30 km. away and are by car to Cairo via Suez (10 – 12 hours). Repatriation can only be arranged
connected by company’s own railway. Rock phosphate loaded (1,000 metric through state agents’ head office in Suez.
tons per day) from elevator and phosphate in bags by ship’s gear. Max. LOA Density: 1030.
70 m. Max. draft 27 ft. Fuel: Not available in Safaga but large quantities can be arranged and come
General Cargo: Cargo vessels can berth alongside a quay of 443 m. with from Suez by bunker barge (small tanker). Fuel and gasoil of very good
a draft of 30 ft. – 32 ft. Quay used for loading and discharging general cargo. quality.
It can accommodate 2 medium size vessels and one large vessel. Fresh Water: Limited supply and expensive. Quality may be poor.
Grain: LOA 220 m. Max. draft 36 ft. 06 in., however vessels can berth with Provisions: Fish available in Safaga. Other provisions could also be
draft 42 ft. Discharge rate 8,000 – 10,000 tons per day supplied from Suez, transportation cost is USD125.00, including Customs
Aluminium: Max. LOA 285 m. Max. draft 33 ft. Discharge rate formalities.
8,00 – 9,000 tons. Communications: Harbour Master/Pilot and Agent have VHF. There is a
telephone station in Safaga. It is easier to call overseas in the afternoon.
BULK FACILITIES: See ‘‘Agent’s Report’’. From Luxor it is very easy and clear with automatic telephone in telephone
STEVEDORES: Canal Stevedoring Co. station or in hotels.
SERVICES: Water, deck and engine stores and provisions provided by Telexes: For vessels with INMARSAT telex on board, the following telex
Egyptian Contracting and Marine Supply Co. numbers are very useful as Egyptian Charterers do not provide telex
LOCAL HOLIDAYS: See ‘‘Suez Canal’’. numbers.
SHIPMASTER’S REPORT: September 1982. Martrans Cairo: 00 91 92909/92243; Arabnavi Alex: 00 91 54131/
1. Pilot does not board on arrival. 54509/54311; Estram Cairo: 00 91 93472/92062; Egyptalum Alex:
There are very good visible leading markers (red and white), also 5 buoys 00 91 94131; Silo Cairo: 00 91 23154; Maramon Alex: 00 91 54507/54127;
have been laid out marking the dredged canal. They are ordinary unlit mooring Minship Port Said 00 91 63263/63034; Minship Suez: 00 91 66042; Memship
buoys. Pass between these buoys with the leading beacons 310␥ True and Alex: 00 91 54162/54502; Mishipco Alex: 00 91 54193.
EGYPT Safaga
General: Pilot Book No. 64S/1986 shows phosphate silo. Hoses: Each berth has two cargo hoses with a 16 in. connection (ASA 150).
In addition fo cargo ships (phosphate, grain, cement), cruise ships call at There is a ballast unloading facility with 16 in. connection. Connection of
Safaga and anchor in the inner anchorage and passengers visit Luxor which hoses to be performed by the vessel under the supervision of SUMED’s
is 3 hours away from Safaga (about 220 km.). Crew are able to visit River Mooring Master.
Nile, ancient Kings’ and Queens’ tombs and the museum in Luxor. Permission Loading/Deballasting Rates:
from Immigration is required but could easily be arranged by state Agent who Buoys A1, A2 & A6 Loading Max. 12,000 tonnes per hourper
also arranges the transportation. A visit to the nearby tourist village of hour
Harghada is also possible (20 minutes from Safaga by car) where there are Deballasting Max. 5,000 tonnes per hour
very good hotels and tourist shops. Permission can again be obtained through Buoys A3, A4 & A5 Loading Max. 10,000 tonnes per hour
state Agent. Crew interested in diving can hire divers suits, etc. from special Deballasting Max. 3,000 tonnes
companies (Rate 80 Egyptian pounds for 2 hours, including transportation).
AGENT’S REPORT: June 1997. WASTE DISPOSAL: Collection service available. Plastic bags are
provided.
Terminal: Grain Berth No. 1.
Distance from sea buoys: 7 km. SLOPS DISPOSAL: Collection service not available. Only Buoys
Length of dock/Length with dolphins: 289 m. No. A1, A4, A5 and A6 are equipped with deballasting sealines.
Draft restriction alongside: 14 m. MEDICAL: Private doctors and hospitals are available in Alexandria.
Commodities handled: Phosphate, cement, alumina and FUEL: Not available.
wheat SHORE LEAVE: There is no shore leave for personnel of vessels loading
Storage capacity: Silo 100,000 tonnes at Sidi Kerir Terminal (disembarkment from vessels is strictly forbidden except
Year built/last modified: 1992 in emergencies).
Designed loading rate/t.p.h.: Mobile pneumatic conveyors GENERAL: Agency Services: Not required under normal circumstances.
7,000 per day Stores: Not available.
Potable fresh water available: Available by barge, minimum
quantity 200 tonnes
SHIPMASTER’S REPORT: November 1987.
Pilotage: The Pilot/Loading Master and the surveyor boarded by helicopter.
Formerly known as: Bur Safaga / Mina Safaga
No Notice of Arrival was given.
Dock access by vehicle permitted: Yes
Documents: The pilot takes the vessel’s Register, Load Line Certificate,
Is bunkering permitted alongside?: Yes. Bunkers must be requested
Safety Construction Certificate, Derat Certificate and Safety Radio Certificate
7 days prior delivery. Not for clearance. Various local forms are supplied by the pilot for completion.
recommended to stem. Anchorage: Vessel used BA Chart No. 3356 (new edition March 1976).
Owner/Operator of elevator: Suez Discharging and Vessel anchored with the radio mast bearing 113␥ (T) and the water tower
Mechanical Stevedoring Co. bearing 141.5␥ (T). The distance from the stern to the shore by radar was
AUTHORITY: Ports and Lights Administration. 2.6 miles and the distance from the stern to the buoy was 1.2 cables.
Notice: The following notice was handed to the Master on arrival:
QUOTE
SIDI KERIR: 31␥ 06' N 029␥ 37' E (See Plan) Ship’s Alertness.
This terminal is on an open roadstead, therefore, during the time a ship is
LOCATION: Sidi Kerir Sea Terminal is situated about 27 km. west of moored at the terminal, the ship’s engines and gear must be ready with full
Alexandria. power for immediate use.
The position of the Sea Terminal is Lat. 31␥ 06' N., Long. 29␥ 37' E. A vessel in a submarine berth must be able to clear and shall clear
As a reference point, there is a conspicuous pylon 4.5 miles SW of Fort immediately upon advice of the Mooring Master or as directed by Sumed’s
Abbassia. A tall radio mast, marked by red lights, stands near a large tank Terminal Superintendent.
farm, 4.5 miles WSW of the above-mentioned pylon. The tank farm shows Ship’s personnel should be at their stations and alert at all times during
up well on radar at 20 miles. mooring, unmooring, and during cargo transfer operations.
The terminal operates day and night. Watchman must be stationed forward to watch the buoy, ropes and floating
Charts: Vessel’s Master should keep on board Admiralty Chart hoses.
No. 3325 ‘‘Approaches to Mersa El-Hamra and Sidi Kerir’’. Watchman must be stationed beside the manifold to watch the connection.
DOCUMENTS: Free zone area, no entry documents to the offshore The vessel must stand-by on the VHF (Channel 78) at all times during the
terminal are required. loading operations.
UNQUOTE
ISPS COMPLIANCE: Port is compliant.
MAX. SIZE: The six berths are spaced one from the other so that each SHIPMASTER’S REPORT: September 1989 (Updated 2002).
has: Vessel: VLCC, 268,000 d.w.t.
Mooring area radius: 410 m. for A1, A2 and A6 (accommodate vessels up Charts: BA Chart No. 3323 is somewhat out of date in the information it
to 350,000 d.w.t., 400,000 d.w.t. with Sumed’s prior approval); 320 m. for A3, contains, according to local sources. This is probably because the Admiralty
A4 and A5 (accommodate vessels up to 250,000 d.w.t.); Manoeuvring area has not been advised of the latest information by local officials. It appears
radius: For A1, A2 and A6, 1,220 m.; For A3, A4 and A5, 915 m. that the strictures about old surveys no longer apply to the area of approach,
Water Depth and Draft Limitations: but which parts have been surveyed, and when, I was not able to discover.
For A1, A2 and A6: 85 ft. maximum water depth Suffice it to say that about 50 vessels per month use the terminal, ranging
75 ft. maximum draft from fairly small ships up to and including those of the same size or larger
For A3, A4 and A5: 60 ft. mimimum water depth than this vessel, having a loaded draft in the region of 21.0 m., and all have
54 ft. maximum draft managed to arrive and leave without mishaps.
The Pilot Station and Waiting Area to the SW and west of the SBMs is
Minimum Size: 50,000 d.w.t. ␾5%. Minimum cargo loading is 40,000 metric the original one which was in use when terminal was first started. Nowadays
tons of any one type of crude oil. this is only used by vessels which arrive for the first time and have no
PILOTAGE: SUMED’s Mooring Master and his assistant board the tanker alternative information.
2 miles north of any of the following Buoys: The preferred waiting area is now to the NW of the SBMs and this is used
Buoy No. A1 by the majority of vessels, especially those which trade regularly to the
Buoy No. A2 terminal.
Buoy No. A6 Pilots: Pilots now prefer to board by a small helicopter and if possible during
Vessel to be head to the wind when approaching any of the above buoys. daylight hours only. If movements are performed after dark, the more
Notifications: ETA messages should be sent by cable via Alexandria/Port conventional method of boarding from a launch is used.
Said Radio on leaving previous port. Cables should be prefixed ‘‘For urgent The Pilot boats come from a depot near Alexandria, which is another reason
delivery send via Telex 54108 or 54033 SUMED UN’’ and be confirmed 72, why the area NE of the terminal is preferred, being that much nearer.
48 and 24 hours prior to arrival. (Day and night berthing and operation). Arrival Pilot Boarding Position: We were requested to come to a position
draft should be indicated. Vessels should arrive with a trim of 8 ft. by the 1.5 nautical miles east of the buoy, to which we were to moor, and similar
stern and appropriate ballast to ensure that propeller is completely instructions were heard being given to other vessels which were berthed,
submerged. although the helicopter can go to any position.
Location of Buoy Field: (SBMs) Helicopter prefers vessel to be heading into wind for landing.
A1: Lat. 31␥ 06' 26" N., Long. 29␥ 36' 46" E. Cargo documents are delivered by launch from Sidi Kerir port, and Pilot
A2: Lat. 31␥ 05' 32" N., Long. 29␥ 35' 38" E. leaves in same way.
A3: Lat. 31␥ 04' 24" N., Long. 29␥ 35' 37" E. Documents: The SUMED Loading Master/Pilot acts on behalf of the relevant
A4: Lat. 31␥ 04' 54" N., Long. 29␥ 37' 39" E. government departments and requires four copies of Crew List, two copies
A5: Lat. 31␥ 05' 40" N., Long. 29␥ 38' 24" E. of Vaccination List and two copies of Stores List. Also required, were the
A6: Lat. 31␥ 07' 30.4" N., Long. 29␥ 37' 58.3" E. following ship’s documents, which are taken ashore for verification and
ANCHORAGES: Tankers can anchor to the north and NW of the returned with cargo documents prior to sailing:
buoyfield. 1 Certificate of Registry
1 Derat Certificate
VHF: Channels 16, 78 and 3. 1 Load Line Certificate
TUGS: 2 tugs ␺ 2,200 h.p. and 2 supply boats ␺ 4,000 h.p. with fire fighting 1 Panama Canal Tonnage Certificate (if applicable)
and anti-pollution equipment is available as required. 1 Safety Equipment Certificate
Mooring Launches: 500 h.p. mooring launches assist in mooring and hose 1 Safety Radio Certificate
operations. 1 Suez Canal Tonnage Certificate (if applicable).
BERTHS: Ship’s Derrick: The ship’s derrick/crane should be capable of Communications: We used telex communication throughout without problem,
lifting 10 tons and rigged on the port side ready on arrival to take the gear the numbers for the SUMED office are 54108 and 54033. No information was
on board for berthing the ship and connecting the hoses. received from them, and on arrival, the same information was requested on
Mooring: Buoys No. A1, A2 and A6 are equipped with one nylon rope of VHF Channel 78.
15 in. and 17 in. circumference and 180 ft. long, ending with a 26 in. chafing Ballast: Vessels are preferred with clean ballast, but reception facilities, for
chain 2.75 in. diameter. A support buoy is connected to the chain. which a charge is made, do exist. Another hose is connected for dirty ballast
The port side mooring rope has a 350 ft. polypropylene pick-up rope of discharge to reception ashore. This can sometimes be a slow process if the
10 in. circumference. The starboard side is the same but the pick-up rope is system has been heavily used and is near the limit of its capacity.
only 180 ft. in length. Two bow stoppers are required. Loading: This vessel loaded two grades, a maximum rate of 10,000 cu.m.p.h.
Buoys No. A3, A4 and A5 are equipped with one gromet rope of 15 in. being available on each. The grades were loaded one after another, two
circumference and 180 ft. long, ending with a 26 ft. chafing chain. One bow hoses being used. A ‘‘short stop’’ of 10,000 cu.m. was necessary, as the
stopper is required. second grade then follows the first down the pipeline.
Sidi Kerir EGYPT
SHIPMASTER’S REPORT: October 1996. Facilities: A garbage boat is provided to every ship which accepts all kinds
Berth: SBM No. 6. of garbage.
Max. Size: 400,000 tonnes S.d.w.t. Crew members can only be landed for medical treatment in an emergency.
Location: Lat. 31␥ 07.436' N., Long. 29␥ 38.289' E. They will be transported to Alexandria.
Depth: 32.0 m. (approx.). AUTHORITY: Arab Petroleum Pipeline Company (Sumed),
Moorings: One line with chafing chain. 431 Al-Guish Avenue, Loran, Alexandria, Egypt. Postal Address: PO Box
Hoses: 2␺16 in. for cargo and 1␺16 in. for ballast. 158, Al-Saray, Alexandria, Egypt. Tel: +20 (3) 582 4138, 582 4139,
Connection is made on the port side by ship’s crew. The ballast line is the 583 7818. FAX: +20 (3) 582 6713, 583 8397, 583 1295, 583 1297.
forwardmost hose. Telex: 54108, 54033 Sumed UN. Contact: Moussa Abdel Motagaly, Sidi
Loading Rate: 14,000 tonnes/hr. (Pilot’s advice). Kerir Terminal – General Manager. Captain Aly Amer, Marine Department
During our call, the maximum loading rate was 8,500 tonnes/hr. Manager.
Shore Line: Capacity 13,500 cu.m.
Ballast: Maximum pressure at manifold is restricted to 7 Bar, and with this
pressure, the deballasting rate was 3,900 tonnes/hr.
Products:
Belayim Mix – API: 28.13. Temperature: 36␥. SOKHNA: 29␥ 40' N 032␥ 21' E (See Plan)
Ras Budran – API: 25.9. Temperature: 40␥.
SHIPMASTER’S REPORT: March 1998 (Updated 2002). Also see Ain Sukhna.
Vessel: OBO of 150,000 d.w.t.
The vessel called regularly every month to load crude oil. OVERVIEW: A modern port with four terminals, handling liquid, dry bulk,
General: It is an open sea loading terminal, situated about 15 miles west of general cargoes and containers.
Alexandria, and in recent times has become a major oil export centre in the LOCATION: In the Gulf of Suez, approximately 40 km. south of the
Mediterranean. The crude oil to this terminal comes directly from ‘‘Ain southern entrance to the Suez Canal.
Sukhna’’ in Gulf of Suez via two pipelines, each of 48 in. and 320 km. long.
The terminal is owned and operated by ‘‘Arab Petroleum Pipelines Co.’’, CHARTS: BA Charts No. 2132, 2133 and 2373.
referred to as SUMED. There are six sea berths, all of them SPM buoys. ISPS COMPLIANCE: Port is compliant.
Berth No. 3 is a stand-by berth. Vessels upto 500,000 d.w.t. can be handled.
There is no draft restriction at Buoys No. A1, A2 and A6 (known as large
PFSO: Khalid Elwalied Hassan Mohamed. Tel: +20 1277 32950.
buoys). At Buoys No. A4 and A5, max. loading draft is 56 ft. MAX. SIZE: 170,000 d.w.t., depth 17.0 m.
All operations are directly handled by SUMED and Agents services are Tankers: 130,000 d.w.t.
not needed. APPROACHES: The approach channel has depth 18.0 m.
Approach: A simple open sea approach and no dangers or obstructions to
the approach to anchorage. The coast line is low desert and gives a poor Turning Basin: Diameter 650 m.
echo. First echoes or indication that radar picks up are echoes of anchored PILOTAGE: Compulsory for all vessels within the pilotage district other
ships. The tank farm shows up well on radar at 20 miles. The current usually than vessels less than LOA 50 m. or yachts and pleasure craft. Available
sets east at about 0.5 knots, but may increase during summer to 1.0 knots. throughout 24 hours. Pilot boards in the vicinity of the Fairway Light Buoy
There is no considerable tide. Weak tidal streams however set east and west, (Lat. 29␥ 38.90' N, Long. 32␥ 24.65' E).
parallel to coast at about 0.5 knots. PRE-ARRIVAL INFORMATION: Vessels shall forward their ETA at
Pilotage: Pilot/Loading Master usually boards by helicopter during daytime the pilot station 72, 48 and 24 hours prior to arrival to the Port Authority.
(from sunrise to sunset). Helicopter service is not available after sunset.
Hence if vessel is called to berth after sunset, Pilot boards by boat 2 miles VHF: Port Control, call sign ‘‘Sokhna Port’’, listens on Channel 16 and works
north of Buoy No. 1. Cargo surveyor boards vessel along with Pilot, and both on Channel 12.
personnel remain on board until completion. BERTHS: Basin: Length 350 m., depth 17.0 m.
Anchorage: Wide open sea room for anchoring. Vessels can anchor Quay Length Depth Remarks
anywhere along the north limit of SUMED assigned area (marked on chart (m.) (m.)
by pecked lines), i.e. to the north and NW of buoy field. Pilots advise vessels North Quay 750 17.0 Bulk, general cargo
to anchor 2.5 miles to 4.0 miles from buoys (SPMs). South Quay 750 17.0 Containers
In winter, during heavy weather, it is preferable to anchor west of terminal. Ro-Ro Berth 2␺100 17.0 Ro-Ro (stern discharge)
Many ships anchor west and NW of assigned area, and in recent times
ships have also started using area NW of SBMs as anchoring grounds. Also see ‘‘Tanker Facilities’’.
Bottom is sandy and offers good holding ground. BULK FACILITIES:
Weather: Normally winds are north to NW’ly (80% of time). During winter
(December to February), at times westerly winds may be encounterd. On Bulk and General Cargo Terminal:
rare occasions during summer (in April), southerly winds may be experienced, Operator: DP World Sokhna. Tel: +20 (2) 371 0071. Fax: +20 (2) 371 0070.
which bring a lot of dust and sand from the desert, which also reduces visibility Email: info@dpworld.com Web: www.dpworld.com
to a great extent. Port is exposed to northerly winds or swell and during Location: SE side of the basin.
severe conditions, port is closed for operations. Berth: Length 450 m.
Documents: Free Zone area and usually no documents are required for Facilities: 4␺100 tons SWL mobile shore cranes, bulk grabs, slings, container
offshore terminal, except one Crew List. Loading Master takes vessel’s spreaders, two bulk hoppers; 16 ha. stockpile yard.
trading certificates and keeps them in his possession until completion of Discharge Rate: Sugar 1,000 tonnes/hr.
discharge. After berthing, Loading Master provided a few forms which are to
be completed and which require owner’s, charterer’s and P&I Club’s full
address and telex numbers. CONTAINER FACILITIES:
Communication: Pre-arrival message and ETAs are sent directly to SUMED Container Terminal:
as no agency service is available or required. The pre-arrival message
Operator: DP World Sokhna. Tel: +20 (2) 371 0071. Fax: +20 (2) 371 0070.
includes ETA, arrival draft, type of ballast (segregated, clean or dirty), quantity
Email: info@dpworld.com Web: www.dpworld.com
of dirty ballast to be discharged ashore, cargo requirements, loading rate,
sailing draft, which grade first (if loading two grades) and vessel’s Inmarsat Facilities: One berth.
numbers. ETA notices of 72 hours, 48 hours and 24 hours are to be sent to Equipment includes 2␺76 tonne post-Panamax gantry cranes,
SUMED. SUMED Telex No. 54108 or 54033. Usually no reply or 2 super-post Panamax gantry cranes, 4 mobile cranes (4␺100 tonnes),
acknowledgement is received from them. They are also on VHF Channels 16, 8␺50 tonne RTGs, 6␺40 tonne reachstackers, 4␺4 tonne chassis, trailers,
78 and 3. 60 tonne spreader/lift frames, 216 reefer points, total area 180,000 sq.m.,
Berthing: Berthing/unberthing operations are carried out day and night. No handling 600,000 TEU.
berthing operations undertaken if wind speed exceeds 30 knots. If wind speed Rail sidings totalling 3,000 m.
exceeds 40 knots, loading operations are suspended and vessel has to
cast-off from buoy. Also see ‘‘Bulk Facilities’’.
On all berths, vessel is moored with only one chafing chain, and one bow TANKER FACILITIES:
chainstopper on vessel (SWL 200 tonnes) is required. If vessel is not
equipped with bow stopper – mooring snotters, shackles, chainstoppers and Sonker Terminal:
other equipment is supplied by terminal prior to berthing. Operator: Sonker Terminal Operations Co.
Mooring hawser from buoy is connected to 25 ft. of chafing chain. Chafing Products Handled: Storage of liquid amonia.
chain is joined to 350 ft. long pick-up ropes of 80 mm. diameter. Berth: Jetty with two berths handling vessels up to 130,000 d.w.t.
Tugs are normally not used for berthing/unberthing. After securing to buoy, Also see ‘‘Developments’’.
vessel usually remains clear of buoy, heading NW, due to NW’ly winds.
Assistance of tug aft (to pull clear of buoy) is rarely needed. No tug is made
fast aft. NEAREST AIRPORT: Cairo International Airport, 120 km.
Operations: All berths have 2 hoses with 16 in. connections for loading. DEVELOPMENTS: Sonker Terminal: Expansion planned for handling
Berths No. 1, 4, 5 and 6 also have a third hose connection for receiving dirty petroleum products, chemicals and liquified gases.
ballast from vessel. Hoses are normally connected on port side of vessel.
Hoses have camlock system (quick-release couplings). Max. loading rate on
AUTHORITY: Head Office: Sokhna Port Development Co, 29 Farid
Street, Heliopolis, Cairo 11341, Egypt. Tel: +20 (2) 414 9944. Fax: +20 (2)
large buoys is 12,000 tonnes/hr. and on small buoys 10,000 tonnes/hr. Sea
414 8877. Web: www.amiral.com.eg Contact: Captain Ossama Al-Sharif,
line capacity to each berth is different (ranging between 7,000 cu.m. to
Chairman and Managing Director. Jan Vissers, Port Director.
14,000 cu.m.). A notice is to be given to terminal when balance of cargo to
Email: jvissers@amiral.com.eg
be loaded is equal to sea line capacity. Serious consequences can arise if
this notice is not given in time. Port Office: DP World Sokhna, Sokhna Port, Ain Sokhna, Egypt.
After completion of loading, vessel casts-off from berth and usually drifts Tel: +20 (62) 371 0071. Fax: +20 (62) 371 0070. Email: info@spdc.com.eg
clear of buoys, awaiting shore figures, which takes about 2 – 3 hours. After Web: www.spdc.com Contact: CA Hulst, General Manager.
receiving shore figures on radio, Loading Master completes all documents Tel: +20 (62) 371 0094. Mobile: +20 120 058029.
and prepares Bill of Lading. After documentation, Loading Master and Email: corne.hulst@dpworld.com Operations Manager.
surveyor leave by helicopter by boat. Tel: +20 (62) 371 0074.
EGYPT Suez Canal
SUEZ CANAL, including Great Bitter Lake: Moreover, and when Shipmasters are requested to sign two copies or more
of the same document, they should ensure that the first page is
30␥ 36' N 032␥ 17' E (See Plan) marked/stamped as ‘‘original’’ and all other copies to be marked/stamped as
‘‘copy’’.
Also see Port Said, Port Suez and Suez Canal - Rules of Shipmaster’s Report: January 1984.
Navigation. Crew Personal Effects Declaration, Bonded Stores Declaration and Stores
List are not required.
DOCUMENTS: The Bonded Store is not sealed.
The following documents are required on arrival: The Ship’s Log Books are not taken ashore but the Certificate of Registry
The last Classification Certificate issued is taken in Port Said and returned at Suez.
Information concerning a vessel transiting the canal Shipmaster’s Report: October 1988 (Updated 2003).
4 Crew Lists The following documents are required for Suez Canal transit:
*Ship’s Register and Suez Canal Special Tonnage Certificate Agent:
General arrangement and capacity plans of the vessel, if transiting the 1 Crew List.
Suez Canal for the first time, or, undergone any alterations State Agent:
Suez Canal Authority’s double bottom tanks capacity form 1 Cargo List
Navigability form 5 Crew Lists
Complete set of Manifests covering all cargo on board showing names 1 CO2 Certificate
of shippers and consignees 1 Liferaft Certificate
4 Lists of Passengers in Transit 1 Navigability Form
Landing cards for passengers landing finally in the ARE and for those 1 Shipping Agency Inward/Outward Form
landing in the ARE in transit 1 Vessel Information Form
4 Lists of Passengers finally landing in the ARE (if any) together with their Vessel’s Safety Certificates.
addresses in the ARE Customs:
Deck Log Books showing date of last call at an ARE port, completed 1 Free Zone Certificate.
up to the time of arrival at Port Said or Suez Quarantine:
Mail Waybills for ports beyond Suez Canal ports and alternatively, a 1 Clearance from Last Port
document from the Master is required (cargo and passenger ships only) 1 Crew List
Quantity of bunkers, water and cargo on board 1 Quarantine Questionnaire
Free Pratique Certificates issued by the local Quarantine Doctor. 1 Vaccination List
In case of a northbound vessel loading or discharging alongside quay Suez Canal Authority:
staying more than 24 hours in Suez, the following documents should also be 1 Crew List
presented. 1 Double Bottoms Tank Capacity Form
Load Line Certificate 1 Vessel Information Form.
Safety Equipment Certificate The following documents are required for vessels berthing at Port Said:
Radio Safety Certificate Agent:
Documents covering names and ratings of ship’s officers and their 1 Crew List.
certificates. Immigration:
* It is essential to have amongst ship’s documents on board the vessel valid 2 Crew Lists (shore passes and passports obligatory).
National Ship’s Registry Certificate showing latest ship’s name and her Quarantine:
present Owners. 1 Clearance from Last Port
The above procedure is requested by the Suez Canal Authority, Traffic 1 Quarantine Questionnaire.
Control, to avoid delay for ships in joining the first convoy, or being liable to Circulars: Issued by Canal Shipping Agencies Company, Port Said:
be stopped in the Canal in case of direct transit from Roads. Circular No. 42/81: To all Shipowners and Masters.
Advance notice to both Suez Canal Authority’s Traffic Control and We append hereunder free translation of Circular No. 2004/T81 received
Measurage, with minimum period of 48 hours prior arrival. from the Deputy Manager, Transit Section, Suez Canal Authority, Port Said:
For Pilot’s Use: ‘‘It has been noticed that the necessary notification which should be given
Arrival form of the Suez Canal Authority before the ship’s entry in harbour in case of carrying dangerous cargo on
Declaration ‘‘E’’ form for dangerous cargo on board in transit board is neglected by Masters who also fail to fulfil the relative declarations,
Any other documents relating to shipments of dangerous cargo, as stipulated in the Suez Canal Authority’s Rules of Navigation Appendix for
radio-active or fissile. Vessels Carrying Dangerous Cargo (Edition 1977), which may expose both
Note: Plain Suez Canal Forms are normally handed to Master by Pilots or the vessel and the port to risks arising from the goods in question.
ship’s Agents, to be filled on arrival and also for use on consequent voyages. Kindly, therefore, draw the attention of Owners and Masters to the necessity
of adhering to the said rules, noting that the Master will be entirely responsible
Quarantine Authorities: navigably and criminally for any occurrence which may arise from failure to
Quarantine Questionnaire in duplicate (Form No. 15 Q.A.) showing all
give the required notification, inaccuracy of details or omitting to take the
ports of call, as well as dates of sailings for the last 30 days, nature of
necessary precautions on board’’.
cargo on board, destination, as well as sickness among crew or
passengers, if any, especially when it is presumed that the sick will be Circular No. 23/82: To all Shipowners and Masters.
hospitalised. These forms can be filled on arrival if not available on We once again should like to draw your kind attention to the fact that some
board before arrival Owners abroad do not provide the Protection Centre, Nuclear Research
1 Crew List Centre of the Atomic Energy Establishment, Cairo with sufficient information
1 Passenger List in respect of such shipment on board their vessels.
Derat Certificate should be handy for inspection In this connection, we would refer to our Circular No. 3/79 dated
Clearance from last port. 6th January, 1979, text of which is quoted hereunder for your easy reference.
‘‘According to Circular No. 4/3BA-406012, dated 1st September, 1964 and
Passports: For Immigration Officer the following documents are required the amending Circulars issued by the Transit Section of the Suez Canal
on arrival: Authority and also the Suez Canal Authority’s Rules of Navigation Appendix
Arrival Immigration form, duly completed for Vessels Carrying Dangerous Cargo, the transport of radioactive
1 Passenger List substances carried by vessels transiting the canal are subject to protective
List of Passengers finally landing, in duplicate conditions concerning transportation and transit, as specified therein, with
Crew List the object of ensuring the safety of the said water channel and its
Valid passport with entry visa is required for landing in ARE for environment.
passengers landing. Emergency visa can be granted on arrival if so However, it has lately been noticed that due attention is not given by
required. Shipowners and Shippers abroad to forwarding the relative complete data
For Customs Use: which must reach the Atomic Energy Establishment before each shipment
Bonded Store List, in duplicate with regard to substances of Group 1 or on shipment with regard to
Crew List and Passenger List in duplicate, showing rate of consumption substances of Group 2, this being in accordance with Item 3 of the aforesaid
of each. circulars and also Chapter 3 of the Appendix in question.
Arrival Formalities - Documentation: Kindly, therefore, advise Shipowners and Shippers that all the said
Upon arrival at Port Said or Suez for transiting the Suez Canal, Master will conditions should be fulfilled, especially regarding the complete information
be presented with the following documents by the local authorities: relating to radioactive substances which should be sent immediately upon
1. Maritime Declaration of Health 4 pages its receipt to: Head of the Protection Section, Nuclear Research Centre,
2. Ship’s Report 1 page Atomic Energy Establishment, Atomic Energy Post Office, Cairo.
3. Notice for Port Officer 1 page This will enable us to take the necessary action to safeguard public interest.
4. Declaration for Ships in Ballast 1 page We add that it is of vital importance that you also supply your Agents with
5. Statistical Declaration 1 page all the required relative information and documents sufficiently in advance,
6. Information Concerning a Ship 1 page to enable them to take the necessary action with both the Suez Canal
7. Information Concerning a Vessel Transiting the Canal 1 page Authority and the Atomic Energy Establishment in Cairo.
8. Declaration of State of Navigability 1 page ISPS COMPLIANCE: The following ports and facilities are compliant:
9. Declaration Concerning Use of Double Bottom Tanks Port of Suez, Passenger/General Cargo port facility; Port at Adabeia City;
and Lower Parts of High Tanks 2 pages Port Said, including the Multipurpose, General Cargo, Arsenal Basin and
10. Passport Control Office Declaration on Arrival 2 pages Passenger facilities. Statements of compliance valid until 23 June 2009.
11. Requisition for Canal Projector Apparatus 1 page
12. Canal Mooring and Lights Co. (receipt) 1 page
MAX. SIZE: LOA no restriction, beam 74.68 m. (aft draft 10.97 m.). In
ballast draft 18.89 m., beam 49.99 m. or draft 11.95 m. (beam 79.0 m.).
13. Passport Control Office - Declaration on Arrival and
Also see ‘‘Suez Canal – Rules of Navigation’’ – Article 52.
Departure 1 page
14. Declaration on Departure 1 page RESTRICTIONS: Circular No. 2/1998:
MARINE WARNING
Note: Shipmasters should pay special attention to Document No. 9, the The Suez Canal Authority informs the shipping agencies, shipowners and
Declaration Concerning Use of Double Bottom Tanks and Lower Parts of floating units that an electric cable will be extended over the Suez Canal
High Tanks, which will assist the Suez Canal Authorities in assessing the waterway, with a max. height of 140 m. at Km. 153.200, thus the permissible
Canal tolls. The schedule on the reverse side of the form must be filled thus height of units will be 135 m. (high high water).
avoiding any over-assessment of the Canal tolls. This Circular takes effect as of 25th June 1998.
Suez Canal EGYPT
Bridges: The new bridge constructed at Qantara (at Km. 48.5) is about Fresh water supply for southbound vessels in Bitter Lakes and Ballah West
49 km. south of Port Said and 38 km. north of Ismailia, in position Branch:
Lat. 30␥ 49.7' N, Long. 32␥ 19.0' E. The clearance is 68.0 m. above Canal Owners and Masters are hereby notified that southbound vessels entering
High Water Level. the Canal direct from sea, will be able to have their fresh water supply while
PRATIQUE: On entering, vessels must hoist the International Quarantine at anchor in the Bitter Lakes or in Ballah berths as from 20th November 1984.
Signal for compulsory quarantine. Any sickness must be reported to the The Suez Canal Authority has its lightening vessel ‘‘Nagda I’’ stationed at
doctor especially when it is presumed that the sick will be hospitalised. The Ismailia and ready for this purpose.
quarantine doctor meets the ships whilst entering the port and the ships are The vessel ‘‘Nagda I’’ is 3,200 d.w.t., 85 m. long, 15 m. breadth and her
boarded in turn. To obtain a quick clearance, Masters are requested to receive fresh water tanks capacity is 1,200 tons.
the doctors as soon as they board and to have the following documents Demands for fresh water should be made through the Agent representing
ready. the vessel, 24 hours prior to arrival, to Port Said Harbour, price per ton of
fresh water is the same as in Port Said harbour against receipts signed by
Quarantine Forms in Duplicate: When inserting the ship’s registered net Masters for the quantities received (minimum quantity is 200 tons).
tonnage special care should be taken in indicating same on the two
quarantine forms (Form No. 15 Q.A.) as the dues are calculated on that FUEL: Different grades of fuel oil are available from different firms. It is
tonnage, as incorrect information may cause complications. customary that the Master should advise in his ETA message the vessel’s
Derat Certificate should be ready for inspection. requirements, fuel or diesel oil, at least 24 hours prior to ship’s arrival into
Clearance from Last Port should also be ready. port to the ship’s Agent. Bunkering is by contract between the Owners and
All ports at which the vessel has called as well as dates of sailings for the the different bunkering firms, and nominations should be arranged for each
last 30 days should be inserted in the form. vessel separately between the Owners and head office of the bunkering firm
Quarantine Signals: abroad, and for which payment is also effected abroad. Only the Compagnie
By day: ‘‘Q’’ flag (signifying vessel healthy). ‘‘Q’’ Over first substitute (QQ). Orientale des Petroles accepts payment in cash out of Shipping Account
(Vessels had cases of infectious diseases more than 5 days ago, and there No. 2 for supplies effected by them and in which case a nomination is not
has been unusual mortality among the ratings or crew on board.) ‘‘Q’’ over required. Vessels can be berthed in the oil installation and thus can effect
L flag (QL) signifying vessel is infected and has had cases of infectious their bunkering requirements through pipelines. Tankers which are not
diseases less than 5 days ago. gas-free, cargo vessels carrying dangerous materials and passenger vessels,
By Night: Red Light Over White: The flags and lights must remain hoisted which are moored opposite the town, can be supplied with requirements of
until Free Pratique is granted. Ships in transit under Quarantine through the fuel and diesel oil ex self-propelled barges with max. capacity of 700 tons.
Suez Canal will use the same signals until they clear the other end of the Suez: Bunkering always done ex-barges.
Canal. SERVICES: Port Said and Suez being situated at a middle point between
Important: In the event of a vessel arriving from a port that has been the east and west, have become an ideal centre for replenishing stores and
internationally declared infectious and the incubation period has not yet provisions which can be obtained in bond or from town. Contact ship’s Agent.
expired at the time of the ship’s arrival at an ARE port the vessel is put under Delivery of provisions and stores is effected 24 hours a day at Port Said
compulsory Quarantine, moored at an isolated berth and no shore contact and Suez.
is allowed. Nevertheless, the ship can still carry out her normal operations It is recommended that Masters should order their requirements prior to
on condition that all shore personnel are holding valid vaccination and/or their arrival with a view to avoiding any delay, especially for ships joining the
inoculation certificates issued by the Quarantine Administration. The ship’s 0700 hrs. convoy southbound.
personnel should also carry International Vaccination and/or Inoculation Deck and engine stores are ample and are also available and sold at ‘‘in
Certificates. Final landing passengers, not carrying such certificates, will be bond’’ prices.
landed under Quarantine supervision and will be kept isolated at the lazarette Paints: All kinds (bottom, boot-top, topside, enamel, engine ready mixed,
until incubation period is over. heat resisting, varnishes) are also available at ‘‘in bond’’ prices. Painting of
Pratique Granted by Radio: Pratique may be granted prior to ship’s ships or undertaking any maintenance work on board is permitted while ship
arrival provided the following conditions are adhered to: is in port waiting to join the north or southbound convoys as well as while
1. The vessel must be a regular liner known to the Quarantine Authorities transiting the Suez Canal.
and has a doctor on board. The following companies are represented here:
2. Details shown on the Quarantine Statement should be radioed to the International Marine Paint Sole agent in Egypt: International
Quarantine Authorities 24 hours prior to ship’s arrival. Shipping Enterprise
3. Masters of vessels must declare before their arrival any accidents Hemples Marine Paint Represented by the Egyptian Marine
which might have taken place on board prior to the arrival in port. Camrex Marine Paint Supply and Contracting Co (cable
4. The ship must not have called at any infected port. address: ‘‘Consup’’)
PRE-ARRIVAL INFORMATION: Chemicals: The following chemical firms are represented in Port Said and
Authorised Personnel Checks: Masters of vessels are requested to Suez:
contact the Suez Canal Authority via its wireless station ‘‘SUQ’’ whenever Gamlen & Co Represented by The Egyptian Marine
they want to make sure of the identity of any Suez Canal personnel embarking Supply and Contracting Co (cable
their vessels, either in the approaches or in the harbours or in the Canal address: ‘‘Consup’’)
waters. Also in case of any urgent complaints which may need quick Bird Archer/Norus Represented by the International
investigation. (Tommons & Chartes) Marine Services Co
VTS/RADAR: Vessel Traffic Management System in operation. Chemicals (cable address: ‘‘Marinco’’)
TUGS: Highly qualified crew are available on board several tugs owned by Drew Chemicals Cameroid
the Suez Canal Authority in Port Said, Suez and in all Suez Canal stations. Products
These tugs assist vessels to berth in Port Said harbour as well as in Canal Paroline Chemicals Cameroid
if a case arises. It is left solely to the Canal Authority to decide whether more Products
than one tug is needed (free of charge) to assist any ship to moor in the Port Walker Bow
Said harbour, but if a Master of a vessel finds it necessary to employ an Houseman Marine Chemicals International Shipping Enterprise
extra tug for berthing or if he needs a tug for any other reason, such an
operation will then be charged to the vessel. Grease and Lubrication Oils Available from:
Salvage Tugs: Esso Petroleum Co Wisure Oil Co
1. 3,200 h.p. ‘‘Mounir’’, ‘‘Moawen 1’’ and ‘‘Moawen 2’’. Misr Petroleum Co (ex Shell) Fina Oil Co
2. From 3,500 – 5,000 h.p. ‘‘Antar’’, ‘‘Bassel’’, ‘‘Barei’’ and ‘‘Fahd’’. Mobil Oil Co Gulf Oil Co
3. 6,400 h.p. ‘‘Mared’’ and ‘‘Shahm’’. Caltex Oil Co Castrol Oil
Ocean Oil Co
Harbour Tugs:
1,600 h.p. ‘‘Bori’’, ‘‘Wakar’’, ‘‘Chadid’’, ‘‘Hout’’, ‘‘Kirsh’’, ‘‘Morgan’’ and Notice of 48 hours is necessary to arrange for lubricating oils and/or
‘‘Shabar’’. bunkers required.
WASTE DISPOSAL: No refuse or ashes are allowed to be thrown whilst Charts: Admiralty Charts are available at Port Said from the Egyptian Marine
ships are moored in Port Said, transiting the Canal or in Suez Roads. Small Supply and Contracting Co. If any order has to be supplied at Suez,
barges are available in Port Said and Suez for disposal of garbage or ashes, arrangements can be made for the required charts to be sent there.
which craft can be obtained at a reasonable hire. Defense Mapping Agency, Washington and British Admiralty Charts
MEDICAL: It is essential for Agent to receive advance notice of required available from International Shipping Enterprise, who also act as distributor
medical attendance at least 24 hours prior to ship’s arrival. All ordinary for Pains-Wessex Marine distress signals and line-throwing equipment.
medical supplies are available and prescriptions are executed at any time at Cigarettes: American and British cigarettes are available ‘‘in bond’’.
moderate prices and delivered during ship’s stay in port. Medical assistance Technical Gases: Technical gases are also available at Port Said and
at Port Said and Suez is available. Consultations on board may be arranged Suez, and empty containers can be exchanged.
through ship’s Agent at any time by day or night. Reliable dentists are Fish: Bream, prawns, crab, rock fish available throughout the year; mullet
available at Port Said and may be consulted on board, if necessary, and available June/February; slip soles available November/March.
during the following period at their clinics: From 0900 – 1300 hrs. and from Vegetables: Beans, beetroots, cauliflower, cabbages, carrots, eggplant,
1600 – 1900 hrs. endive, garlic, herbs, lettuce, marrows, parsley, radishes, spinach, tomatoes,
Oculists are available for consultations at town clinics in Port Said during turnips, escarole, onions, potatoes: Available throughout the year
usual working hours. Opticians are also available at Port Said. Green peas, celery, pumpkins: Available January/March
Ship’s personnel should carry international vaccination and/or inoculation Artichokes: Available October/April
certificates if a vessel is arriving from a port that has been internationally Parsnips, spring onions: Available November/May
declared infectious and the incubation period has not yet expired at the time Green pepper, mint, lady’s finger: Available June/September
of arrival. Capsicum: Available May/December
The following hospitals are available with ample first, second and third Cucumbers: Available February/December
class accommodation, accepting patients irrespective of nationality at Lemons, limes: Available throughout the year
reasonable charges: Fresh figs, fresh dates: Available August/October
Al Mabarra Hospital, Abou El-Azayem Hospital, General Government Bananas: Available October/June
hospital, isolation hospital and ophthalmic hospital. Grapefruits, oranges, tangerines: Available October/May (when out of
FRESH WATER: Available for supply ex self-propelled barges to any season imported citrus are available)
quantities required at all times with minimum supply of 50 tonnes for vessels Apricots: Available May/June
exceeding 500 tonnes gross provided vessels inside the harbours, vessels Water melons, sweet melons: Available May/October
at anchorage areas minimum supply quantity is 200 tonnes. Grapes: Available June/October
Canal Shipping Agencies Company – Circular No. 123/84: Plums, peaches: Available June/October
EGYPT Suez Canal
Mangoes: Available August/September Other Repair Facilities: Exist at Port Said for air conditioning, wireless
Pears: Available August/October telegraphy, radar, course and rudder recorder, refrigerators, and refrigerating
Apples: Available November/February (also imported the whole year). units.
Eggs: Eggs are available throughout the year. All kinds of repairs to echo sounding devices are carried out at Port Said
Meat: Fresh meat is only supplied to vessels having a Mohammedan Crew and Suez by experienced specialists at reasonable charge. In Port Said
after permission is obtained from the Customs. Other vessels are supplied different types are dealt with by the Port Said Engineering Works and Eastern
with ‘‘frozen’’ in bond. Electronics. The electrical repair workshop in Suez is operated by Suez
Laundry: Well equipped, reliable and fast services are available at Port Electronics.
Said, through the ship’s contractor. Ship’s laundry is usually delivered within POLICE/AMBULANCE/FIRE: Vessels which are moored in the
24 hours. For vessels remaining a few hours in Port Said and transiting the harbour either in Port Said or Suez requiring assistance from the Port Police,
Canal, laundry can be collected, washed and ironed and then transported to should hoist the International Code Signal (YM). There is always a police
Suez by special car or lorry for delivery to them there. guard appointed by these Authorities on each ship in either Port Said or Suez
Divers: Suez Canal Authority’s Divers as well as other contractors’ harbour. First-aid assistance can provide ambulances at a request through
experienced divers are available, capable of carrying out any kind of the Agent. In case of fire on board when in port, the Master must inform the
underwater repairs including welding and fees depend on the kind of job to Port Authorities (the Suez Canal Authority) immediately and at the same time
be performed. Anchors and other articles left behind by any ship in Canal give a general warning by means of a long blast of whistle or siren and be
waters are retrieved on no cure no pay basis. prepared to move his ship to another berth if so required. The Suez Canal
Airfreight: The Official State Agents are the only Agents legally entitled to Authority owns seven tugs and other craft distributed in various points of the
handle airfreighted consignments such as parcels, spares, etc., and the Canal with individual output from 10 – 950 t.p.h. well equipped with firefighting
following procedure should always be followed: appliances, ready for use at any moment.
All parcels should indicate: Police guards are placed onboard vessels in Suez Roads for vessels’
a) name of vessel to which consignment is intended and port of delivery protection.
b) name of Official State Agent FIRE PRECAUTIONS: In accordance with the Suez Canal Authority’s
c) the wording . . . . ‘‘delivery at Cairo Airport to Cairo Shipping Agency regulations, tankers and vessels carrying dangerous materials must comply
only, on behalf of (insert name of Official State Agent)’’ with their requirements, concerning fire regulations.
d) all parcels to be encircled with a wide self-adhesive tape, coloured SECURITY/GANGWAY: In both basins Cheriff and Abbas at Port Said,
red. In addition a self-adhesive label to be affixed bearing the name where cargo vessels are normally berthed, ships’ gangways can be used for
of Cairo Shipping Agency and also the name of the Official State disembarkation and embarkation. Passenger vessels are moored in special
Agent in large capital letters berths, i.e. Red Buoys, opposite the town, and can be supplied with one or
e) the parcel and air waybill must indicate the words ‘‘In Transit for two floating bridges (snake pontoon) which can connect the ship with the
M/V......’ shore to enable the transit passengers and members of crew to proceed
f) suppliers of the spare parts must always be instructed to enclose with ashore. Cargo ships and other vessels mooring at the different buoys must
the parcel a copy of their invoice stating description of the contents lower their gangway to facilitate disembarkation and embarkation of ship’s
and value and to ensure that the commodity of the cargo can be personnel as well as different officials. As far as Suez is concerned, all vessels
indicated precisely on the relative Bill of Lading. must lower their gangway for the same purpose stated above. A deck
Note: Crew members joining vessels at Suez Canal are not permitted to bring watchman is recommended, but is not compulsory, and can be supplied at
with them spare parts, equipment, electrical apparatus, etc., for vessels the Master’s request.
unless they are accompanied by an air waybill and an invoice duly completed Also see ‘‘Police/Ambulance/Fire’’.
as instructed above. Please note that any goods for vessels arriving with Circular No. 1/87:
embarking crew members must also follow precisely points (e) and (f) as 1. Each vessel, tanker and/or floating unit of any type which berths in Port
indicated above otherwise the Customs Authorities will refuse to release such Said and/or Suez either to transit the Suez Canal and/or to carry out
goods ‘‘In Transit’’. operations has to engage watchmen in the following procedure:
In order to enable check upon airfreighted consignments, Principals are Gross Tonnage Minimum No. of Watchmen
requested to telex advise their Agent giving full details of flight number, date,
of Floating Unit to be engaged per Unit
air waybill number, etc.
a) up to 999 tons 1 watchman
Circular No. 19/83: Dated 8th February, 1983.
b) from 1,000 – 2,999 tons 2 watchmen
Parcels of spare parts, equipment and electrical apparatus arriving care
c) from 3,000 tons and over 3 watchmen
of crew members without transit shipping documents.
d) passenger ships According to Master’s
Reference is made to our previous circulars, dealing with the above subject,
ending with No. 101/82, dated 31st October, 1982, requesting you to kindly e) large cargo ships requirements with a minimum of
ascertain that the air waybill covering a parcel of spare parts must show that 3 watchmen.
same is ‘‘In Transit for M/V......’’. 2. Each Contractor has to submit to the Master a list showing names of
The object of the present circular is to bring to your kind attention that, watchmen engaged and their serial numbers.
considering that, according to Regulations, a crew member is allowed to be 3. The vessel has to ascertain that each watchman is in possession of an
accompanied only by his personal effects, the Customs Authorities refuse to identity card and/or badge bearing a serial number, photo and name of
release ‘‘In Transit’’ other goods, such as spare parts, various equipment, the marine contractor through whom he has been engaged.
electric apparatus of high value (TV, video etc.) arriving care of crew 4. Masters are kindly requested not to sign blank receipts as it is
members. As already explained, the goods in question should be recommended to keep a copy of same onboard for perusal in case of
accompanied by an air waybill and an invoice duly completed as described need.
previously. 5. Any incident concerning watchman’s attitude on board has to be
Kindly, therefore, arrange for parcels of spare parts, equipment, apparatus reported immediately to the Agents so that necessary steps can be
etc. not to be forwarded care of crew members unless they are accompanied accomplished on the spot for the safeguard of ship’s interests.
with complete shipping documents, otherwise it will not be possible to have Circular No. 86/84:
them released ‘‘In Transit’’. On the occasion of the current security precaution measures adopted at
Circular No. 114/1983: present, kindly advise Owners and Masters to the following steps:
We would refer to our various Circulars ending with No. 19/1983 (see 1. Upon ship’s arrival in Canal waters, security personnel may board
above), dated 8.2.1983, dealing with the necessity of instructing suppliers of vessels with at least two persons with certified identity cards issued
spare parts to ensure that: by the Suez Canal Security Directorate. They are not Suez Canal
a) the parcels be accompanied by copies of invoices showing description Authority employees. The above procedure is a part of security plan
of their contents and its value to safeguard ships’ transit in the Canal due to the prevailing
b) the relative Bills of Lading should point out the commodity of the cargo circumstances.
precisely. 2. Utmost care and accuracy to be taken in relaying information about
Moreover, you are also kindly requested to make certain that the respective ship’s tonnage and all particulars concerning cargoes onboard, thus
Air Waybill should clearly show that the parcel is ‘‘In Transit for M/V......’’, complying with manifests, avoiding ship’s delay or checking.
indicating the vessel’s name to enable the Customs to avoid dealing with the 3. Special attention to be given on passing information for expected
parcels as ‘‘Import Cargo’’, which irregularity causes much complication and vessels either from the north or south, and immediate notice for any
delay. alteration to be relayed to concerned parties with a minimum period
In this respect, it is also recommended that parcels be airfreighted to Cairo of 6 hours before arrival at Anchorage Area to avoid being delayed.
four days before ship’s arrival, taking into consideration the weekends and
official holidays. LOCAL HOLIDAYS: General Holidays: 22 February (Unity Day);
Circular No. 121/84: Arrival of Ship’s Stores Consignments by Airfreight to 1 May (Labour Day); 9 May (Sham El Nessim (Spring Holiday)); 18 June
Cairo Airport: Notice is hereby drawn to the urgency of notifying all concerned (Evacuation Day); 10 – 13 July (Ramadan Bairam (end of Ramadan))*;
as regards the arrival of airfreighted ship’s stores consignments in ample 23 July (Revolution Day (National Day)); 16 – 20 September (Courban Bairam
time before reaching Cairo Airport, prior ship’s arrival at one of the Suez (Pilgrimage Feast))**; 6 October (Armed Forces Day); 7 October (Islamic
Canal ports, with a minimum period of four days before ship’s arrival. This New Year)***; 24 October (Suez Day); 16 December (Mouled El Nabi (Birth
will enable our Cairo branch to complete the necessary Customs formalities, of the Prophet)).
and ensuring delivery to respective vessels. * Possibly observed 11 – 14 July
Kindly be guided accordingly. ** Possibly observed 17 – 21 September
REPAIRS: Most types of repairs whether temporary or permanent can be *** Possibly observed following day.
carried out here by the Suez Canal Authority’s shipyard or its subsidiary The Dates of the Islamic holidays are stated approximately. Working hours:
companies, under the supervision of the appropriate surveyors, if necessary. 0600 – 1800. Overtime: 1800 – 0600. Friday is the weekly day of rest but it
Suez workshops are well equipped for undertaking all kinds of marine repairs does not affect labour.
to hull, main and auxiliary engines, boilers, navigation aids, radar and cooling, If a holiday falls on a Friday it is possible that the following working day
and installations. will be decreed a holiday also.
Vessels carrying explosives are not allowed to carry out repairs. Tankers Ramadan: Thirty days’ fast. Cargo operations can be carried out at night
loaded or in ballast but not gas free are not allowed to carry out repairs, and on Fridays and General Holidays against payment of overtime rates.
except in cases of force majeure of which the Canal Authority is sole judge. Arrangements should be made on the previous working day to enable
Gas-free tankers must present Gas-free Certificate before they are allowed Customs to delegate the necessary personnel in time.
to carry out any repairs. If unavailable, a chemist approved by the Suez Canal Local Holiday: Port Said: 23 December (Port Said Day).
Authority can be appointed for testing the tanks and issuing the Gas-free CONSULS: The following countries have consular agencies in Suez:
Certificate. The aforementioned restrictions are applicable at Port Said only Denmark Finland Norway Sweden
and not at Suez where vessels anchor at roads and are of no danger.
Suez Canal EGYPT
NEAREST AIRPORT: Cairo International Airport, 2.5 hours by road from 8. Northbound Times: Large container vessels start at 0600 hrs., they
Port Said. When sending crew by aeroplane to join their respective vessels, leave the Waiting Area at 0435 hrs. from north or south of Conry Rock,
notify in good time the flight number as well as the time and date of the depending on size. The last ship generally gets underway at
arrival in Cairo to Cairo Shipping Agency through ship’s Agent for the approximately 1000 hrs.
necessary clearance. 9. Convoy Notes: The average convoy consists of 26 vessels. The first
CUSTOMS: Every member of crew is entitled to have one carton of vessels are large container vessels and tankers with tug escort and two
cigarettes, 8 ounces of tobacco, and one bottle of spirits for his own pilots. The next vessels are LPG ships. They are followed by small
consumption during ship’s stay in Port Said, Suez Canal transit, until vessel tankers. The last part of the convoy is made up of cargo vessels, Ro-Ro
exits the Canal or vice-versa. Same applies to passengers, and a limited vessels, tankers in ballast and tankers carrying non-dangerous
quantity of bonded stores can be permitted in public rooms and bars on products.
passenger ships. Crew and passenger list, in duplicate, showing the amount Depending on the size of the southbound convoy, northbound vessels
in possession of each must be ready on vessel’s arrival for submission to can go straight through to Bitter Lake without anchoring.
the Customs Representatives who normally proceed on board on arrival to Transit speed is about 7.5 knots.
seal up the Bonded Stores. Northbound vessels do not go through Port Said Harbour unless
Ships’ Masters should restrain from giving gratuities to Customs officials. stopping for cargo or bunkers. They usually use the Eastern Cut.
If there are any problems, the ships Masters should contact the Suez Canal Our vessel carrying vegetable oils and latex got under way twice at
Authority. 0930 hrs. and left the Canal at Port Said through the Eastern Cut at
2030 hrs.
SHORE LEAVE: Crew members are allowed ashore provided that they The searchlight is used, especially during the winter months.
obtain a shore leave pass issued by the Immigration Authorities through the Pilots change when both north and southbound at Ismailia. There is
local Agent. They can proceed ashore by means of motor launches or rowing now no Port Said sea pilot outward-bound. The Canal Pilot leaves at
boats at their own expense. For vessels mooring opposite the town and Beacon KM 1.
connected with the shore by snake pontoon, crew, together with passengers, Boats: If vessel only has one crane, one canal boat will suffice as
can proceed ashore free of charge. long as ship’s lifeboats are open.
REPATRIATION: By law, only the official state agents are permitted to The vessel carries three boatmen and an electrician. A cabin is
handle reception or repatriation of crew in Egypt. required for the electrician.
Crew members arriving at Cairo Airport to join a vessel must have a letter When passing through the Port Said area, the boat is lowered, the
of introduction addressed to the Manager of Cairo Shipping Agency, 7 Abdel pilot departs and the Agent conducts any business. This can cause a
Khalek Tharwat Street, PO Box 468, Cairo. Tel: 745755 or 745863. This bunching up of vessels.
introductory letter is to be produced immediately upon arrival to the Vessels should be aware of the strong east-going cross currents when
representative attending at the airport. leaving the Canal at Port Said.
Note: A representative is usually in attendance when the crew member steps 10. Signals: The black ball over ‘‘G’’ or the three white vertical lights which
off the bus and passes through the doors at the entrance hall. Distance from indicate that the vessel requires a pilot must be shown on anchoring
the bus about 20 – 25 m., just in front of the banks. outside and inside.
Visas can be obtained at the airport. ‘‘Q’’ Flag (Not ‘‘ZS’’) or the red over white lights to be shown until
The Suez Canal authorities have also stipulated the following requirements Pratique has been granted.
for arriving crew members. They should: 11. Formalities: The Agent boards in the Waiting Area and requires:
a) be of same nationality as the vessel’s flag 3 Crew Lists
b) be in possession of a contract signed and stamped by the shipowners 1 Customs Declaration
c) be holding a valid Seaman’s Book. 1Effects List
Note: Crew members joining vessels at Suez Canal are not permitted to bring Register (takes Register away, it is returned at Port Said)
with them spare parts, equipment, electrical apparatus, etc., for vessels 1 Canal Ship Information.
unless the goods in question are accompanied by an air waybill which must Quarantine: Officer boards at Inner Anchorage and requires:
indicate the words ‘‘in transit’’, together with an invoice from the suppliers 1Health Declaration
stating description and value of the goods. 1 Vaccination List.
Principals are requested to telex their Agent giving full details of crew The Canal Inspector requires:
changes including names, flight numbers, dates and times of arrival. 1 Suez Canal Tonnage Certificate
Agent’s Notice: This is to bring to your kind attention the fact that Owners 1 Double Bottom Tank Declaration Form
are sending the return tickets for repatriation of crew members by PTA, which 1 Transit Form.
procedure entails delay in reserving a place on board the aircraft in addition The Searchlight Inspector requires:
to the delay that results in tracing the whereabouts of the PTA. This in turn 1 Original Manufacturers Certificate
causes extra hotel expenses and we are therefore requesting that Owners 3 Searchlight bulbs (two in the light, and one spare) to be sighted.
leave the ticketing to us in order to cut hotel expenses. Please note the usual 12. Suez Anchorage:
crew discount is obtained. Bunkers: Available. Amounts supplied should be checked carefully on
completion.
IDENTIFICATION CARDS: Every member of crew must have a Water: Available by barge.
Seaman’s Book deposited with the Officer in Charge for inspection, if so Doctor: A doctor is available to come on board the vessel if the Agent
required by the Immigration Authorities. If a vessel is stopping in Port Said receives prior notice. We obtained a doctor’s visit without any difficulties.
or Suez for a lengthy time, these Seaman’s Books are normally taken off the Mail: In most cases it is delivered in Port Said.
ship by the said Authorities and kept in their departing office pending ship’s Chandlers: There are many chandlers touting for business.
sailing day when they are placed on board by the proper officer on a previous Garbage Collectors: This is a new innovation at Suez, but collection is
advice. Identity cards are also needed if a crew member wishes to proceed not required, and Masters should not sign any forms.
ashore for a short visit to the town or for proceeding to any excursion inland. Watchmen: The hiring of watchmen is a ‘grey’ area, and we could not
DEVELOPMENTS: There is a modernisation plan underway at Suez. find out if it is compulsory or not. The Agent would not commit himself
When the modernisation is complete, cargo handling will be largely on the matter. On 3 recent visits we have hired one watchman and he
mechanised, resulting in a great increase in the port’s capacity. The first was efficient with regard to sorting out those persons who were bona
stage of the expansion will provide 3 multi-purpose berths, shoreside fide traders.
installation, container-handling facilities, and grain storage facilities. An Editor’s Note: Hiring of watchmen is not compulsory.
offshore grain pier connected to onshore storage silos is expected to be built 13. Weather: There are often sand storms in April that rarely cause delays
during the next phase. to convoys.
Plans for draft 20.73 – 21.34 m. are being studied. Developments: There is a buoy mooring in Suez Bay in position
SHIPMASTER’S REPORT: February 1992 (Updated 2003). Lat. 29␥ 55.24' N, Long. 32␥ 29.4' E for the discharge of vegetable oils.
NORTHBOUND: There are bulk berths for grain and phosphates in Adabiya Bay with
1. As per Admiralty List of Lights and Radio Signals (ALRS), vessels cranes.
should book convoy time 4 days in advance through telex to SUCANAL SOUTHBOUND:
(Telex No. 63543/63238 or 63528). 1. The new Racon Beacon 0.5 miles east of West Port Said Breakwater
2. Call Suez Harbour Office on VHF Channel 16 and change to is useful for obtaining positions.
Channel 11 on reaching Lat. 29␥ 35' N. (North AS Buoy) for anchoring 2. Vessel must drop anchor in the recognised Port Said anchorage by
instructions. 1800 hrs. to qualify for the next day transit.
Information is required as per ALRS. An allowance of 2 hours (2000 hrs.) is granted on payment of an
3. Vessels anchor in marked ‘‘Waiting Area’’, north of Conry Rock. This extra transit fee, if information has been sent in 4 days in advance.
anchorage is for all vessels under 11.58 m. draft. When in the waiting 3. General cargo vessels and small tankers not carrying dangerous cargo
area, use VHF Channel 14. are taken into Port Said Harbour (not optional) to Buoy Berth as marked
Vessels over 11.58 m. draft anchor in ‘‘V’’ areas, south of Conry Rock. on BA Chart No. 234.
4. Vessel’s arrival time is the actual time of crossing Lat. 29␥ 24.6' N at 4. Ships in Port Said Harbour form the first part of the southbound convoy
Suez and Lat. 31␥ 28.7' N at Port Said. If time is of great importance, as far as the Bitter Lakes. The southbound convoy commences when
authorities advise vessel to drop anchor anywhere north of the line, the last northbound ship has left the Main Canal to Port Said Cut Off,
even if vessel has to leave the anchor again immediately and move to which is at approximately 2100 – 2200 hrs.
a new location. The vessel’s arrival time is electronically recorded. 5. Large tankers and container vessels enter direct from the anchorage
5. Vessels proceed to Inner Anchorage in Suez Bay to marked areas once through the Port Said Cut Off at approximately 2400 hrs.
a pilot is available. Vessels do not generally proceed inwards from the 6. When the convoy has reached the Bitter Lakes, with is usual for the
Waiting Area whilst southbound convoy is transitting the Newport Rock container vessels and large tankers to leave for Suez before the general
Channel, so between the hours of 1800 and 2400, the waiting area can cargo vessels and the small tankers not carrying dangerous cargoes.
become full. 7. The Radio Officer is to keep watch on ‘‘SUQ’’ in accordance with ALRS.
6. Latest arrival times for same day transit: 8. When going into the Buoy Berth in Port Said Harbour, it is very important
0100 hrs: Tankers (All types carrying dangerous cargoes) and large that a good watchman is obtained as thieving is rife.
container ships. 0300 hrs on payment of a surcharge and with prior Tying up to the buoys can be difficult in high winds. The vessel should
arrival information. have plenty of lashings available for securing to the buoys.
0300 hrs: General cargo and tankers carrying non-dangerous 9. All services are available in Port Said Harbour.
cargoes. No extra time allowed. 10. Formalities are same as those for the vessels northbound.
7. Convoy times and turn numbers are given out on the radio (VHF 11. The southbound convoy starts leaving Suez between 1630 – 1700 hrs.
Channel 14) at approximately 0300 hrs., so listen carefully.
EGYPT Suez Canal
SHIPMASTER’S REPORT: October 1993 (Updated 2003). Pilot:
NORTHBOUND: 1 Quarantine Clearance
1. As per ALRS, vessels should, if possible, book Convoy Time four days 1 Pilot Particulars
in advance, or as soon as possible if coming from nearby port, by Telex 1 North/South (or vice versa) Cargo Declaration.
to SUCANAL 63543/63238/63528 with copy to appointed Government Searchlight Inspection: Sometimes inspectors board at Suez Anchorage
Agent. to sight 3 Suez Searchlight Bulbs (2 in searchlight) and manufacturers
2. 24 hours’ notice of ETA required and thereafter any change in ETA. Call original certificate.
Suez Pilot on VHF Channel 16, working on Channel 17, when 30 minutes 12. Suez Anchorage Facilities:
south of No. 2 Light-Float (Racon), for instructions. Information required Bunkers: Normally taken on west side of Newport Rock Channel.
as per ALRS. Water: Available in Inner or Outer Anchorages and arranged by Agent.
3. Pilots attend in Waiting Area Anchorage between Conry Rock and Doctor: Boards vessel at Inner Suez Bay Anchorage.
Newport Rock. We arrived on last call at 2200 hrs. and Waiting Area Stores: Many shipchandlers are looking for business – so be careful.
was fairly clear. Garbage: Take great care – possibility of confidence tricksters who quote
Waiting Area north of Conry Rock is for all vessels under 11.58 m. Marpol.
draft. When north of No. 2 Light-Float, Suez Pilot uses VHF Channel 14. Watchmen: A grey area – sometimes they can be helpful and useful.
4. Vessel’s arrival time in Waiting Area is actual time crossing Repatriation: Through Cairo. Suez is nearer to Cairo than Port Said. Try
Lat. 29␥ 24.6' N at Suez Canal and Lat. 31␥ 28.7' N at Port Said which to avoid staying at Suez, ask for direct transit to Cairo Hotel.
is electronically recorded. Authorities advise vessel to drop anchor Weather: Winter weather prevails between December and April. March
anywhere north of this line, even if vessel has to immediately heave-up and April bring rare sand storms.
and proceed further inwards. Mail: Normally delivered to vessel by Port Said Agent with the Register
5. Vessels proceed to Inner Anchorage in Suez Bay (as per circled areas and Clearance.
on BA Chart) once Pilot available. Vessels do not generally proceed
inwards from Waiting Area whilst southbound convoy is transiting SHIPMASTER’S REPORT: November 1995 (Updated 2003).
Newport Rock Channel, so between 1800 – 2300 hrs. Waiting Area NORTHBOUND:
Anchorage can become crowded. We anchored in Suez Bay at 2000 hrs. to await the morning Northbound
We arrived for our northbound transit at 2200 hrs. and vessels were Convoy.
still coming southbound out of Newport Rock Channel, but ships from Up until 2400 hrs., Agents/Authorities came on board. Two watchmen were
Waiting Area were being taken into Inner Anchorage between south provided by the Agent, but are not compulsory during vessel’s stay in port,
movements. We actually waited for two hours to proceed into Inner but they showed up for only one hour and then they left (probably going to
Anchorage. another ship and thus registering themselves on 2 – 3 ships for the same
6. Latest arrival times for same day transit: night).
0100 hrs.: Tankers (all types carrying dangerous cargo and not gas free) SHIPMASTER’S REPORT: February 1998 (Updated 2003).
and large container ships. NORTHBOUND:
0300 hrs.: Above group on payment of extra fee and re-arrival information Charts: BA Charts No. 233, 234, 2098 and 3214.
sent in. Documents: The following documents are required:
0300 hrs.: General cargo ships, small container ships and small tankers 8 Crew Lists
carrying non-dangerous cargoes. No extension for this group. 1 Quarantine Declaration (Canal Standard form if possible)
7. Convoy Times and Turn numbers are given out on VHF 1 Set Canal Forms, including Tank Statement (Most Important).
Channel 14 between 0300 – 0400 hrs. (listen carefully). Vessels often 1 Ship’s Stores List
have to call up Suez Pilot for information. 2 Vaccination Lists.
8. Northbound transit in two parts. Firstly large tankers and container ships Often required to sight:
leave waiting area at about 0530 hrs., then LPG ships and other tankers. International Tonnage Certificate
After the First Group, there is a gap of about 75 minutes before Second Searchlight Certificate
Group, comprising general cargo vessels, bulk carriers, tankers carrying Suez Canal Tonnage Certificate.
non-dangerous substances and ships with deficiencies and tows. Ship’s Register taken by Agent and delivered back passing Port Said/Suez.
The last ship generally gets under way at about 1000 hrs. Make sure you have a copy on board.
9. Convoy Notes: The average convoy consists of 20 vessels. Officials: Agent and Immigration (Health/SCA Inspector) board at the
The First Group of large tankers and container ships starts leaving anchorage, not co-ordinated. Beware of bogus so-called Authorities (seeking
Port Said through the Eastern Cut-Off Channel at about 1700 hrs. Large gifts).
tankers require a tug escort and two Pilots. Tug rules have been relaxed Reporting: Standard reporting by Telex 5, 3, 2 and 1 days prior to arrival
for other classes of vessels, notably LPG vessels. to Co-ordinating Agent and Canal Government Agent.
The last general cargo vessel presently clears the Canal around The first message to give standard details:
2200 hrs. NO northbound vessels now go through Port Said Harbour, 1. name, Nationality and type of vessel
unless calling for cargo work. 2. Suez Identification Number
Radio Officer is still required to monitor ‘‘SUQ’’ when south of Bitter 3. Suez Canal GRT and NRT, including DWT
Lakes, as required by Pilot. Ships without a Radio Officer have to monitor 4. transit or stopping at Suez or Port Said
VHF. 5. arrival draft
Transit speed is 13 km./hr. for large tankers/container ships and 6. ETA Suez or Port Said (from north to south)
16 km./hr. for general cargo ships (around 7.5 knots). 7. ballast or laden. If laden cargo, IMO number, tonnage. If ballast,
Our vessel, carrying vegetable oils and latex, got under way from Suez whether gas-free or not
at 0930 hrs. and left the Canal at 2100 hrs., being No. 13 of a 17 ship 8. number of crew and nationalities
convoy. 9. if Projector to be hired, or own Projector carried
Searchlight rarely used nowadays, although canal electrician still 10. SWL of ships derrick, if capable of lifting canal boats.
carried. Twice recently we were able to stow the light before Port Said, South to north contact Port Suez passing Lat. 29␥ 30' N. Vessel deemed
which is helpful in winter to avoid damage. to have arrived when passing Lat. 29␥ 42.8' N, although Suez Control often
Pilots change once at Ismailia. First Pilot from Suez Anchorage to interpret this to actually mean anchoring.
Ismailia and second Pilot from Ismailia to Port Said (Suez Canal Tower) North to south contact Port Said one hour before Port Said North
(Km. 1). Anchorage.
Boats: If vessel has only one crane/derrick, only one boat required, this Pilots: Suez Harbour Pilot boards abeam Conry Rock. Changes to Canal
should be declared well in advance. Pilot when abeam SCA Signal Tower Suez.
When passing outbound near Port Said in the Eastern Cut-Off, the Pilot changes again at Ismailia at about 1100 hrs.
boat is lowered, Agent boards with Clearance and Register, and Pilot No Harbour Pilot at Port Said. Canal Pilot departs at Port Said Cut-Off,
departs at Km. 4. A somewhat chaotic situation can occur with ships SCA Signal Tower.
bunching together.
Vessels should be aware of the strong east-going cross current,
Suez Search Lights: Have to rig, but often not required for the first six
ships in the convoy.
sometimes encountered across the channel outside Port Said.
Consult Pilot at around 1500 hrs., can generally derig and stow before
A number of dredgers are now working in the Canal to deepen channel
entering the Mediterranean.
to 23.62 m., which is now a third of the way through a three-year
programme. Anchorage: Gas carriers use ‘‘Victor’’ Anchorages south of Conry Rock. It
10. Signals: ‘‘Q’’ flag or ‘‘red over white light’’ for Quarantine Clearance to is fairly quiet. Gas carriers carrying NH3 alone, firstly use Waiting Anchorage
be shown until vessel cleared. north of Conry Rock, then under pilotage move to Suez Bay ‘‘Bravo’’
‘‘Black ball over G’’ or ‘‘3 vertical white lights’’ for Pilot, both at Waiting Anchorages.
Area and inside Suez Bay. VHF: Suez Pilot VHF Channel 11 and Channel 14. Port Said Pilot
11. Formalities: Agent boards in Waiting Area, and Quarantine and Canal VHF Channel 12.
Inspector board in Suez Bay Anchorage Area. Reporting Times – Same Day Transit: Tankers: 0100 hrs., 0300 hrs.
Agent requires: +3% of toll, 0330 hrs. +5% of toll, 0500 hrs. +5% of tolls, if sufficient slots.
6 Crew List (plus a further 3 copies at Port Said) Cargo ships: 0300 hrs., 0500 hrs. +5% of tolls.
Register – Returned at Port Said Gas carriers carrying LPG (including deck tank) fall under Tanker Section.
3 Canal Information on Agent’s Form. Gas carriers carrying NH3 (with no LPG at all) fall under Cargo Ship Section.
Quarantine: Convoy: Times and numbers given out on VHF Channel 11 at about
2 Crew List 0200 hrs. First ship enters the Canal at 0600 hrs. Heave up from Victor
3 Vaccination List Anchorage at about 0400 hrs. Gas carriers carrying NH3 alone, generally
1 Canal Health Declaration. move from ‘‘Bravo’’ Anchorage at 0800 hrs., entering the canal around
Canal Inspector: 0830 – 0900 hrs.
1 Crew List South to north convoy does not normally stop.
1 Statistical Declaration First ships leave Port Said Cut-Off Channel (SCA Signal Tower) at about
1 State of Navigability Form 1600 hrs. Gas carriers carrying NH3 alone (first cargo ships) depart Port Said
1 Ship in Ballast Form or ‘‘Nil’’ at about 2000 hrs.
1 Transit Form Canal Boatmen: Come to the anchorage at around 0100 – 0200 hrs. If one
1 Double Bottom Tank Declaration (most important that it is compiled amidships crane (often the case), vessel can sometimes transit with one
with correctly). boat.
Suez Tonnage Certificate and Official General Arrangement Plan are Accommodation/sleeping area required for boat’s crew and electrician.
sighted. Often require Pilot Cabin.
Suez Canal EGYPT
Ropes: Required to have three floating lines available, forward and aft, not GENERAL
nylon. Plaited polypropylene rope generally acceptable.
Article 1: Transit Through the Suez Canal
Weather: In winter, early morning fog at both ends of the Canal and rare (1) Transit through the Suez Canal is open to vessels of all nations, subject
sand storms can hinder or delay the vessel’s passage. to their complying with the conditions stated in the present Rules of
SHIPMASTER’S REPORT: June 1998 (Updated 2003). Navigation. All references and circulars which shall be issued by the Suez
SOUTHBOUND: Canal Authority will constitute an integral part of these rules. Vessels also
Documents: See ‘‘Shipmaster’s Report’’ dated February 1998. have to comply with the provisions of the International Regulations for Safety
Officials: Agent and Immigration (Health/SCA Inspector) board passing Port Of Life At Sea, and its amendments, MARPOL 73/78, as well as the provisions
Said SCA Tower. Ship’s Register taken by Agent and re-delivered back when of the International Regulations for Preventing Collision at Sea, and all laws,
passing Suez. Make sure you have a copy, it has been known to get lost. orders and regulations issued by the Egyptian Government.
All authorities board at the same time. I left the Chief Officer in charge on (2) The Suez Canal Authority reserves the right to refuse access to the
the bridge and deal with all authorities in the ship’s Office. Canal Waters, or order the towage or convoying of vessels considered
Reporting: Standard reporting on telex 5, 3, 2 and 1 day prior to arrival, dangerous or troublesome to navigation in the Canal (Non or erroneous
and by VHF 1 hour before arrival at Port Said North Anchorage, to declaration of dangerous cargo – see ‘‘Article 47 Bis’’).
co-ordinating Agent and Canal Government Agent (The first message, the (3) By the sole fact of using the Canal Waters, Masters and Owners of
same as given in the Shipmaster’s Report dated February 1998). vessels bind themselves to accept all the conditions of the present Rules of
Pilots: Port Said Harbour Pilot boards at Buoy No. HM150. Canal Pilot takes Navigation, with which they acknowledge being acquainted, to conform with
over at Port Said Cut-Off (East Branch) SCA Tower. these conditions in every respect, to comply with any requisition made with
Pilot changes again at Ismailia. a view to their being duly carried out, and to adhere to the Canal Authority’s
Pilot changes again at the Suez SCA Tower and departs at Newport Rock. private Code of Signals as shown in Part III of these Rules.
If poor weather, the Port Said Pilot boards in the vicinity of Buoy Article 2: Agents
No. HM60 and Suez Harbour Pilot is suspended until further notice. (1) Every vessel* other than navy ships intending to transit the Suez Canal
Pilot signals (important): I required transit – Black ball over flag ‘‘G’’, or or staying at Port Said or Port of Suez, or in the Suez Canal Basins or docks
three all-round white lights in a vertical line. must have a recognised Shipping Agent.
Suez Searchlights: A projector is required. (2) Suez Canal Authority confirms that she has no agents or representatives
Anchorage: Gas carriers carrying LPG use ‘‘Victor’’ Anchorages. The abroad.
anchorage is exposed, especially in winter gales. (3) The Egyptian Authorities are to be notified of intended transit of navy
Gas carriers carrying NH3 alone, use ‘‘Charlie’’ Anchorages. ships in the Suez Canal : Viz : Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Defence
Depending on traffic movements (especially if arriving before northbound as well as Ports and Lights Administration.
ships depart Port Said), gas carriers carrying NH3 alone, often have to * Vessels up to 400 g.r.t. may have a recognised private agent.
proceed into Port Said Harbour and tie-up at Buoy Berths No. 1I, 2I and 3I. Article 3: Canal Waters
This creates a problem as many unwanted persons will board the vessel. (1) Canal Waters mean the Canal proper, and the access channels
VHF: Port Said Pilot on Channel 12. thereto*, the waters within the Canal Authority’s Concession adjacent to the
Canal proper and Port Said Harbour and Port of Suez.
Reporting Times – Same Day Transit: For First Convoy, which (2) The Canal proper, as to its length, is reckoned to run from
includes all LPG gas carriers, latest transit time is 1900 hrs. or 2100 hrs., Km. 3.710 West Branch for vessels entering from Port Said Harbour and from
+5% of tolls. Km. 1.333 East Branch for vessels entering through the East Approach
For Second Convoy, gas carriers carrying NH3 alone, latest time is Channel, to Hm. 3 at Suez, including the 2 channels of the Great Bitter Lake
0300 hrs. or 0400 hrs., +5% of tolls. and all Canal by-passes.
Convoy: Times and numbers given out on VHF Channel 12 at about (3) As to its width the Canal is bounded by the banks when they are above
2100 hrs. water; when the banks are submerged, the width of the Canal is limited to
First Convoy ships start entering Port Said Cut-Off Canal (East Branch) at the perpendiculars at the point of intersection of the sub-marine bank with
about 0100 hrs. the horizontal plane corresponding to the max. draft authorised including
Heave-up anchor at about 2330 hrs. squat.
Main convoy anchors in the Bitter Lakes from about 0830 – 1130 hrs. * Port Said Eastern and Western Entrance Channels, Suez Entrance Channel
First ships depart Suez (SCA Tower) at 1545 hrs. which includes the Port of Suez Eastern Channel leading to the Canal
Second Convoy ships commence transit at 0700 hrs. and tie-up in Ballah entrance.
Cut-Off (north of Ismailia) to let the northbound convoy pass, exiting at Suez
between 2200 hrs. and 2400 hrs. Article 4: Responsibilities*
Having said the above, there are occasions when the total number of ships (1) When in Canal Waters, or at its ports or roads, any vessel or floating
(first and second convoys) is small, then convoys are combined with the structure of any description is responsible for any damage and consequential
second group entering the Canal at about 0400 hrs. and anchoring in the loss it may cause either directly or indirectly to herself or to the Canal Authority
Bitter Lakes with the first group, leaving the Canal at around 1800 hrs. properties or personnel or to third party.
(2) The vessel’s or floating structure’s Owners and/or Operators are
Canal Boatmen: Arrive at the vessel off Port Said Cut-Off (Eastern Branch) responsible without option to release themselves from responsibility by limited
breakwater.
liability.
Fresh Water: Generally taken in Suez Bay, unless inside Port Said Harbour. (3) The words ‘‘Owners and/or Operators’’ for the purpose of the present
Fuel: See ‘‘Fresh Water’’. article, shall be considered to mean person/persons or corporate body
Repatriation: Crew changes possible at both ends of the Canal, via Cairo responsible for the vessel at the time of the navigational accident or incident.
Airport. (4) Moreover, the vessel guarantees to indemnify the Canal Authority in
Patience is required as there are often long waits for boats, particularly at respect of any claim against the latter by reason of any damage whatsoever
Suez. Road transport to and from Suez or Port Said can suffer breakdowns. she may cause either directly or indirectly to third parties.
Hotels range from good to moderate. Insist on the best, even if it means (5) The vessel waives the right to claim against the Suez Canal Authority
paying more. Gratuities advisable. for any damages caused by third parties that she may sustain while in Canal
Currency: US dollar cash deliveries to the vessel’s Master can be arranged Waters.
through the supervisory Agents for placing on board at either Port Said or * See also Art. 11 para. D, (art.16 para. A), (art.55 para. 5), (art.59 para. 3),
Suez. We experienced no difficulties in this respect. Agents advise a minimum (art.60 para 4,5) and (art.62 para. 4).
of 5 working days to make arrangements. Article 5: Temporary Delaying of Vessels
Pound Sterling can also be arranged, but this takes longer. (1) The Canal Authority may delay a vessel for the purpose of investigating
Agents: Government Agent mandatory. Most gas carriers seem to use any claim or dispute that may arise, or any formal or informal complaint, or
Damanhour (Damanship). Generally an international supervisory agent is allegation of violation of the laws of the Canal or for security reasons.
appointed for the handling of funds and spares. (2) A vessel may be delayed until in the opinion of the Canal Authority, its
General: Security: Maximum anti-theft measures required. tenderness, trim, list, cargo, hull, machinery have been put into such condition
Stores: Avoid storing if possible as many products are of poor quality. as will make the vessel reasonably safe for her passage through the Canal.
AUTHORITY: The Suez Canal Authority, Ismailia, Egypt. Tel: +20 (64) (3) No claim for damages is accepted or considered because of any such
20000/9. FAX: +20 (64) 393833, 320784, 320785. Telex: Sucan 92153 and temporary delaying of vessels.
63238 (Ismailia), Scaps Un 63256 (Port Said) and 63543 Sucan. Article 6: Pilotage
Cables: Sucanal Ismailia. Contact: Galal El Deeb, Director of Transit or (1) Pilotage is compulsory for all vessels whatever their tonnage*, when
Control of Navigation. entering, leaving, moving, changing berth or shifting in Canal Waters or Port
Port Said Port Authority. Said and Port of Suez harbours.
Suez Port Authority. (2) Any exemption must be explicitly authorised by the Suez Canal Authority
Also see ‘‘Shipmaster’s Report’’ October 1992. (See Art. 11(d)).
* Except Egyptian vessels under 300 tons Suez Canal Gross Tons authorised
to work in Canal Ports and Accesses, also Egyptian fishing vessels under
SUEZ CANAL - RULES OF NAVIGATION (See Plan) 300 tons Suez Canal Gross Tons (At Port of Suez: 300 tons Suez Canal
Gross Tons). However, if transiting Canal, the above is not applied.
Article 7: Changing Berth in Road Anchorages
Vessels in Port Said Anchorages Areas (Northern and Southern
General Anchorages), Suez Roads, the Bitter Lakes or Timsah Lake are not
Part I – Navigation authorised to change berth or anchorage, or make fast alongside other
vessels, or carry out any cargo operations without explicit authorisation from
Part II – Canal and Lakes (Characteristics) the Suez Canal Authority.
Part III – Communications – Signals
* Not all the Rules of Navigation are printed herein. Part IV is concerned with PART I – NAVIGATION
Tonnage and Dues and Part V with Carriage of Dangerous Goods.
† Corrected up to Notice No. 1 of 2001 which came into effect on 5th June
CHAPTER I – SUEZ CANAL NAVIGATION FEATURES
2001.
NOTE: The present Rules are applied to normal cases. Special cases, each SECTION I – Approaches
to be studied case by case. Article 8: Port Said (See ‘‘Plan’’)
General: Fifteen miles before arrival to Fairway Buoy*†, all vessels arriving
from seaward should contact the Harbour Office by VHF (Channel 16). If not
EGYPT Suez Canal - Rules of Navigation
able to, by R/T (2182 kHz) or by W/T or by radio telex and Inmarsat via Suez (5) Dangerous Areas
Canal Marine Communications Centre SUQ for instructions (See Part III – (a) Wreck: A wreck buoy is situated on the Western side of a sunken ship
Articles 86 and 87). at Hm. 195, West of the approach channel:
Fairway Buoy: Position: Lat. 31␥ 21.32' N., Long. 32␥ 20.81' E. Lat. 31␥ 25.24' North. Long. 32␥ 22.98' East.
Characteristic: V.Q.W. Height 5 m., painted black and red horizontal bands, with day mark 2 black
* See ‘‘Plan’’. balls. Showing group flashing white (2) every 10 seconds. (See ‘‘Plan’’).
† All buoys in the Canal and access channels may be replaced temporarily (b) Dumping Areas: The hopper dredgers, dredge underway for several
by others of smaller size. months every year in the entrance channels and dump in the following areas.
3,140 m. East of the axis of the East channel at Hm. 140.
(A) Anchorage Areas* Lat. 31␥ 20.80' North Long. 32␥ 25.80' East.
The incoming vessels have two anchorages. 4,000 m. East of the axis of the East channel at Hm. 80 approximately.
* All vessels arriving from sea have to anchor in the berth allocated to them Lat. 31␥ 18.70' North Long. 32␥ 24.70' East.
by the Suez Canal Port Authority. (B) Port Said Approach Channels
(1) The Northern Area (1) Buoyage (See ‘‘Plan’’ – ‘‘Suez Canal North Entrance’’).
Comprises two zones: The Port Said West Approach Channel extends from the port of Port Said
(a) Zone One: For vessels with draft over 42 ft. This zone is limited as till Hm. 80 where it joins the East Approach Channel. Height of buoy at Hm.
follows: 80 is 10 m.
North Limit Latitude 31␥ 28.50' North The Port Said East Approach Channel extends from the land boundary,
South Limit Latitude 31␥ 27.00' North East of Port Said, till Hm. 195.
East Limit Longitude 32␥ 20.00' East The 2 channels are marked, on each side, by light buoys of 5 m. height
West Limit Longitude 32␥ 18.00' East (except from Hm. 195 to Hm. 135 East Channel, the height of the buoys is
10 m.). The light is red on the Eastern side and green on the Western.
Vessels at anchor in this area, when entering the Eastern Channel will (a) East Approach Channel (See ‘‘Plan’’).
proceed between the East and West buoys at Hm. 195 (course 194␥)*. The East Approach Channel is buoyed as follows:
Hm. 195: In the West: Green. Daymark: Cone point up. Fl. Gr. Lights.
East: West: In the East: Red. Daymark: Can Fl. R. Lights.
Lat. 31␥ 25.06' N. Lat. 31␥ 25.16' N. The 2 buoys indicating the Northern end of the channel, at Hm. 195, are
Long. 32␥ 24.30' E. Long. 32␥ 23.85' E. Isophase (2 sec. on, 2 sec. off). The distance between them is 745 m.
Isophase (2 sec. on, 2 sec. off) (See ‘‘Plan’’). (b) Junction of East and West Approach Channels
* All buoys in the Suez Canal and its approaches are fitted with radar Three yellow buoys mark the junction of the East and West Approach
reflectors. Channels. They are placed at Hm. 83, Hm. 95 and Hm. 105.
(b) Zone Two: For VLCCs, 4th Generation Container Ships, 3rd Generation (i) Buoy at Hm. 83: Yellow and black in colour, is fitted with North Cardinal
Container Ships and vessels over 39 ft. draft up to 42 ft. (2 cones point up) daymark and shows by night Q. Fl. W. (5) every
This zone is limited as follows: 20 sec.
North Limit Latitude 31␥ 25.00' N. (ii) Buoy at Hm. 95: Yellow in colour, shows a fixed yellow light.
South Limit Latitude 31␥ 23.20' N. (iii) Buoy at Hm. 105: Yellow in colour, is fitted with a yellow St. Andrew’s
East Limit Longitude 32␥ 20.00' E. cross daymark and shows by night group flashing yellow (4) every
West Limit Longitude 32␥ 16.00' E. 15 seconds.
Vessels at anchor in this area, when entering the Eastern Channel, will (c) West Approach Channel
proceed between the East and West buoys at Hm. 135. The buoyage of the West Approach Channel of Port Said Harbour, is as
Hm. 135: follows:
Lat. 31␥ 21.95' N., Long. 32␥ 23.10' E. (i) Port Said Fairway Buoy (See ‘‘Plan’’).
Characteristics: See ‘‘Plan’’. Off Port Said, a fairway light buoy, height 10 m., painted black with yellow
The berths of this zone are called (V) berths and comprise the following: vertical stripes, surmounted by a daymark 2 cones point out, and showing
Centre of circle (Radius 750 m.). V.Q. light.
Berth Latitude Longitude Lat. 31␥ 21.32' North Long. 32␥ 20.81' East.
V1 31␥ 23.70' North 32␥ 19.50' East Buoy No. 8 Green. Daymark: Cone point up. F. Gr. Light.
V2 31␥ 24.50' North 32␥ 19.50'East Lat. 31␥ 21.13' North Long. 32␥ 21.04' East.
V3 31␥ 23.70' North 32␥ 18.50' East Buoy No. 7 Green. Daymark: Cone point up. F. Gr. Light.
V4 31␥ 24.50' North 32␥ 18.50' East Lat. 31␥ 20.52' North Long. 32␥ 21.31' East.
Buoy No. 6 Green. Daymark: Cone point up. F. Gr. Light.
V5 31␥ 23.70' North 32␥ 17.50' East
Lat. 31␥ 19.09' North Long. 32␥ 21.58' East.
V6 31␥ 24.50' North 32␥ 17.50' East
(ii) The West Approach Channel is buoyed as follows:
V7 31␥ 23.70' North 32␥ 16.50' East
In the West: Green. Daymark: Cone point up. F. Gr. Light.
V8 31␥ 24.50' North 32␥ 16.50' East
In the East: Red. Daymark: Can F. R. Light.
(2) The Southern Area Buoy No. 5 of Hm. 80 East: Red: Daymark: Can F. R.
For all other vessels, area is limited as follows: Lat. 31␥ 19.13' North Long. 32␥ 22.11' East.
North Limit Latitude 31␥ 23.05' North Buoy No. 5 of Hm. 80 West: Green: Daymark: Cone F. G.
South Limit Latitude 31␥ 21.25' North Lat. 31␥ 19.30' North Long. 32␥ 22.85' East.
East Limit Longitude 32␥ 20.50' East (d) El Bahar Tower
West Limit Longitude 32␥ 16.70' East A guidance tower in position between the East and West Approach
Channels:
Vessels at anchor in this area, when entering the Port of Port Said through Lat. 31␥ 18.16' North Long. 32␥ 21.58' East.
the West Approach Channel proceed: Height 42 m., painted white with red horizontal stripes.
(i) Take on their starboard ‘‘Fairway Buoy’’, No. 8, No. 7 and Characteristics:
No. 6 Buoys. Racon call sign Q ‘‘ – – ⭈ – ’’ range 15 miles.
(ii) On the port there are 3 yellow buoys showing yellow lights. Beacon light Iso. W (2) sec., range 15 miles.
(iii) On reaching No. 5 pair of buoys at Hm. 80, showing F. Gr. and R., (2) Navigation
they will proceed through the old channel to Port (Course 217.5␥). (a) Northbound Vessels:
Berths in Southern area called (C): (i) All Northbound vessels use the East Approach Channel. The end of
Centre of Circle (radius 500 m.) the navigable channel is marked by the pair of buoys at Hm. 195. (course
Berth Latitude Longitude 014␥). From Hm. 195, vessels are to steer North (000␥) for 5 miles before
C1 31␥ 21.50' North 32␥ 20.00' East altering to destination.
C2 31␥ 22.10' North 32␥ 20.10' East (ii) Vessels leaving Port Said harbour to sea, use the West Approach
C3 31␥ 22.70' North 32␥ 20.10' East Channel (course 037.5␥) till Hm. 80 (Buoys No. 5), then steer North (000␥) to
C4 31␥ 21.50' North 32␥ 19.40' East 5 miles North of Buoy at Hm. 195 West. (Lat. 31␥ 25.16' N.,
C5 31␥ 22.10' North 32␥ 19.40' East Long. 32␥ 23.85' E.) before altering to destination.
C6 31␥ 22.70' North 32␥ 19.40' East (iii) Vessels of the Northbound convoys wishing to enter Port Said Harbour
C7 31␥ 21.50' North 32␥ 18.70' East may proceed through the West Channel, direct to their allocated berth in Port
C8 31␥ 21.10' North 32␥ 18.70' East Said Harbour, only if the situation of traffic permits. Otherwise they have to
C9 31␥ 22.70' North 32␥ 18.70' East proceed through the East Approach Channel till Hm. 195, then steer North
C10 31␥ 21.50' North 32␥ 18.00' East (0000) for 5 miles and head for the anchorage berth allocated by the Harbour
C11 31␥ 22.10' North 32␥ 18.00' East Office*.
C12 31␥ 22.70' North 32␥ 18.00' East * This is to avoid crossing incoming vessels to the Northern Anchorage Area.
C13 31␥ 21.50' North 32␥ 17.30' East (b) Southbound Vessels: The maximum draft authorised for
C14 31␥ 21.10' North 32␥ 17.30' East Southbound vessels is limited to 42 ft.* in accordance with the tables giving
C15 31␥ 22.70' North 32␥ 17.30' East the maximum draft according to the vessel’s breadth.
* Southbound vessels may be authorised to transit with draft from 42 ft. up
(3) Prohibited Area for Anchorage to 56 ft. with special arrangement.
The area between the East limit of the 2 anchorage areas and the approach (i) VLCCs, in ballast or partially loaded, 4th Generation Container Ships
channels is prohibited for anchorage to all vessels and floating units. and 3rd Generation Container Ships, LASH vessels over 35,000 Suez Canal
(4) Anchorage Area for Trans-shipment Operations: Gross Tons, LPG and LNG (Loaded or not gas free) and vessels having a
(a) Vessels up to 60 ft. draft: draft of more than 42 ft. and up to 56 ft. maximum, have to use the East
North Limit Latitude 31␥ 25.00' N. Approach Channel, course 194␥. The said vessels enter the channel between
South Limit Latitude 31␥ 24.00' N. flashing green buoys of Hm. 165 and Hm. 135.
East Limit Longitude 32␥ 27.00' E. (ii) All other vessels, transiting the Canal or berthing at Port Said, have to
West Limit Longitude 32␥ 26.00' E. enter through the West Approach Channel, course 180␥, from the entrance,
(b) Vessels over 60 ft. draft: passing between the West green buoys and the East yellow buoys till Hm.
North Limit Latitude 31␥ 27.00' N. 80, then alter course to 217.5␥, passing between green and red buoys, till
South Limit Latitude 31␥ 26.00' N. Port Said Harbour.
A fixed red light on a pylon on the North Quay of Abbas Basin in line with
East Limit Longitude 32␥ 28.00' E.
an occulting red light on a pylon West of the fuel oil tanks at Raswa, indicates
West Limit Longitude 32␥ 27.00' E.
the axis of the entrance channel to the harbour.
Suez Canal - Rules of Navigation EGYPT
(C) Breakwaters (C) Anchorage Area for Trans-shipment Operations ‘‘S.T.S’’
(1) The West Approach Channel is protected by two breakwaters: (1) ‘‘A’’ Area:
(a) The Western Breakwater protecting the West Approach Channel is Lat. 29␥ 43' North Long. 32␥ 37' East
situated to the West of the channel and extends from land boundary till Hm. Lat. 29␥ 43' North Long. 32␥ 38' East
73 with a submerged part from Hm. 50. This part is marked by cigar shaped Lat. 29␥ 42' North Long. 32␥ 37' East
unlit buoys. Lat. 29␥ 42' North Long. 32␥ 38' East
(b) The Eastern breakwater extends from land boundary till Hm. 21.2, and (2) ‘‘B’’ Area:
has an occulting red light at its Northern End. Lat. 29␥ 37' North Long. 32␥ 37' East
(2) Two breakwaters protect the East Approach Channel. The Eastern Lat. 29␥ 37' North Long. 32␥ 38' East
extends 2 km. from the land boundary, and the Western extends for 0.53 km. Lat. 29␥ 36' North Long. 32␥ 37' East
from the land boundary. Each breakwater has a small fixed white light on its Lat. 29␥ 36' North Long. 32␥ 38' East
end. (D) Arrival to Suez of Northbound Vessels
Vessels coming from sea to transit the Suez Canal or enter the Port of
Article 9: Suez (See ‘‘Plan’’) Suez, have to pass East of the Separation Zone. VLCC’s, 4th Generation
Five miles before arrival at the First Separation Zone Buoy, all vessels Container Ships, 3rd Generation Container Ships and vessels over 38 ft. draft
coming from sea should contact the Suez Canal Harbour Office by VHF have to anchor in the anchorage area specified for these vessels (V Berths)
Channel 16. If not able to, contact by R/T (2,182 kHz) or by W/T or radio in the berth allocated to each vessel by the Suez Canal Authority. Other
telex and Inmarsat via S.U.Q. for instructions. (See Part III, Articles 86 and vessels have to pass East of the Separation Zone and anchor in the Waiting
87). Area as previously indicated.
(A) Separation Zone (E) Prohibited Area for Anchorage
A Separation Zone has been established. Extending 0.3 miles on each It is strictly forbidden for all vessels Northbound to anchor in the area limited
side of the line connecting the two Separation Buoys mentioned hereafter. as follows:
All vessels arriving or leaving have to pass the Separation Zone Buoys* on (1) In the North:
their Port side. Two buoys marking the dredged channel position:
* See ‘‘Plan’’. Western Buoy: Lat. 29␥ 51.15' N., Long. 32␥ 33.13' E.
The Separation Zone Buoys are: Eastern Buoy: Lat. 29␥ 51.16' N., Long. 32␥ 33.33' E.
(1) Separation Zone Buoy No. 1 (Southern Buoy): (2) In the West:
Lat. 29␥ 39.49' North Long. 32␥ 32.12' East By the line joining the West Buoy and position ‘‘P’’:
Height 6 m., R. W. colour, with top mark red ball, and a foghorn. Showing ‘‘P’’: Lat. 29␥ 48.52' N., Long. 32␥ 30.90' E.
L. Fl. 10 sec. and fitted with 5 mile Racon (O) 3 cm. and 10 cm. (3) In the East:
(2) Separation Zone Buoy No. 2 (Northern Buoy): By the line joining the East Buoy and position ‘‘R’’:
Lat. 29␥ 48.55' North Long. 32␥ 32.12' East ‘‘R’’: Lat. 29␥ 48.52' N., Long. 32␥ 33.18' E.
Height 6 m., R. W. with top mark red ball, showing Iso. 6 sec. with 5 mile (4) In the South:
Racon (D) 3 cm. and 10 cm. Horn. By the line joining position ‘‘P’’ and position ‘‘R’’.
(B) Anchorage Area (F) Suez Entrance Channel
The incoming vessels have two anchorages: (Including the Eastern Channel leading to the Canal Entrance).
(1) ‘‘V’’ Area: This channel is used for vessels entering or leaving Suez Canal and also
For VLCC’s, 4th Generation Container Ships, 3rd Generation Container by those entering Port of Suez and using its anchorages*
Ships, LASH ships over 35,000 Suez Canal Gross Tons, vessels over 38 ft. * The max. draft authorised for vessels using Ibrahim Basin, the Petroleum
draft, LPG and LNG vessels (loaded or not gas free), this area is indicated Basin or El Adabya Basin must not exceed 26 ft. at HW.
by: This channel is buoyed as follows:
(a) The Conry Rock Buoy: (1) A pair of light buoys at Hm. 80.5 (entrance buoys):
(a) The Eastern Buoy, height 5 m., green, cone point up showing Oc. G.
Lat. 29␥ 48.11' North Long. 32␥ 34.22' East.
4 sec.
Height 5 m., Y.B.Y. West mark, showing Q (9) 15 sec.
(b) The Western Buoy, height 5 m., red, can daymark showing
(b) South Shoal Buoy: Oc. R. 4 sec.
Lat. 29␥ 38.87' North Long. 32␥ 35.98' East. The distance between the Eastern and Western Buoys is 340 m.
Black, cone point up, showing Gr. Isophase (2 sec. on, 2 sec. off). (2) Proceeding Northward, the channel is marked on both sides by light
Berths of this area are called ‘‘V’’ Berths. Centre of circle (radius 833 m.). buoys, height 5 m.
Berth Latitude Longitude (a) On the Eastern side of the channel: The buoys are green, cone point
V1 29␥ 46.50' North 32␥ 35.00' East up, showing Fl. G.
V2 29␥ 45.50' North 32␥ 35.00' East They are placed in the following locations:
V3 29␥ 45.50' North 32␥ 36.00' East Hm. 70.50
V4 29␥ 45.00' North 32␥ 37.00' East Hm. 60.00
V5 29␥ 44.50' North 32␥ 36.00' East Hm. 44.40
V6 29␥ 44.50' North 32␥ 35.00' East Hm. 24.00
V7 29␥ 44.00' North 32␥ 37.00' East Hm. 14.00
V8 29␥ 43.50' North 32␥ 36.00' East Hm. 7.00
V9 29␥ 43.50' North 32␥ 35.00' East Km. 162.150 (Occ. green light)
(b) On the Western side, the buoys are red, can daymark and showing
(2) Waiting Area:
Fl. R.
For other vessels: They are placed in the following locations:
This area is limited by the following buoys: Hm. 70.50
a) Conry Rock: Hm. 60.00
Lat. 29␥ 48.11' North Long. 32␥ 34.22' East. Hm. 44.40
Height 5 m. Y.B.Y. West mark, showing Q (9) 15 sec. Hm. 21.00
b) Buoy ‘‘M’’: Hm. 17.20
Lat. 29␥ 50.00' North Long. 32␥ 35.29' East. Hm. 1.00 (Occ. red)
Height 5 m., yellow cross, showing F.Y. Course: From the entrance buoys (Hm. 80.50) (New Port Rock Channel)
c) Buoy ‘‘N’’: to the green light buoy of Hm. 24.00.
Lat. 29␥ 50.63' North Long. 32␥ 35.29' East. Northbound: 352.5␥
Height 5 m., yellow cross, showing Qk. F.Y. Southbound: 172.5␥
d) Buoy ‘‘D’’: (G) Canal South Entrance
Lat. 29␥ 51.28' North Long. 32␥ 35.29' East. The Canal South entrance is marked by 2 light buoys, height 7 m.
Height 5 m., yellow cross, showing F.Y. (1) The Eastern Buoy at Km. 162.150 is green, cone point up, showing
e) Buoy ‘‘C’’: occulting green light (1) every 4 seconds.
Lat. 29␥ 51.93' North Long. 32␥ 35.29' East. (2) The Western Buoy at Hm. 1.00 is red, can daymark and showing
Height 5 m., yellow cross, showing Fl. Y. occulting red light (1) every 4 seconds.
f) Buoy ‘‘B’’: (H) Port of Suez
Lat. 29␥ 52.06' North Long. 32␥ 34.54' East. Port of Suez is delimited by the imaginary line which extends from Ras
Height 5 m., yellow cross, showing F.Y. Adabeya to Eyoun Moussa and comprises the coastal zone North of this line,
g) Buoy ‘‘A’’: up to Suez Canal entrance.
Lat. 29␥ 52.17' North Long. 32␥ 33.86' East. (1) Navigation: (a) General Rules:
Height 5 m., yellow cross, showing F.Y. (i) All vessels shall conform to the International Regulations for Preventing
h) Buoy Hm. 60.00 East: Collision at Sea.
Lat. 29␥ 52.27' North Long. 32␥ 33.16' East. (ii) Navigation in the port is limited to approved channels only.
Height 5 m., green, cone point up and showing Fl. Gr. (iii) Crossing or overtaking in the channels is strictly forbidden.
Buoy Hm. 60.00 West: (iv) Vessels must proceed in the port with caution and at reduced speed.
Lat. 29␥ 52.26' North Long. 32␥ 32.96' East. (v) Vessels must not let go their anchors except in the anchorage.
Height 5 m., red can, showing Fl. R. (b) Traffic Regulation:
i) Buoy Hm. 70.50 East: (i) Vessels entering or leaving the Port:
Lat. 29␥ 51.70' North Long. 32␥ 33.26' East. For vessels entering the port from sea and vessels leaving the port for
Height 5 m., green, cone point up and showing Fl. Gr. sea, all movements shall be effected through the Western Channel, except
Buoy Hm. 70.50 West: for vessels anchored in 1C, 2C, 3C, 4C, 5C, which should use the Eastern
Lat. 29␥ 51.69' North Long. 32␥ 33.05' East. Channel.
Height 5 m., red can, showing Fl. R. (ii) Vessels entering the Canal:
j) Buoy Hm. 80.50 East: From the Port and Zone N.W. of Green Island, they must comply with the
Lat. 29␥ 51.16' North Long. 32␥ 33.33' East. following:
Height 5 m. green, cone point up and showing Occ. Gr. (1) 4 sec. Anchorages 8C to 16C and Anchorage Groups A and B (See ‘‘Plan’’):
k) Position ‘‘R’’: Vessels shall pass through the Western Channel, then South of Green
Lat. 29␥ 48.52' North Long. 32␥ 33.18' East. Island to join the Eastern Channel and then proceed to the entrance of the
Canal.
From Zone North East of Green Island: (3) Anchorages of Port of Suez:
Anchorage 1C to 7C:
Vessels shall proceed directly from their anchorages to the entrance of the Bearing of Green Distance from Green
Canal. If the number of vessels exceeds the number of anchorages, vessels Anchorage Island Light Island Light
in excess shall anchor South of the Western Channel, parallel to Anchorages (cables)
2A, 4A, 6A, 4B and 7B, making sure to leave the Western Channel clear for (a) Group ‘‘A’’:
navigation at all times. 1A 306.5␥ 6.1
From Zone South of Green Island: 2A 330.0␥ 7.2
Anchorages 1D to 6D (See ‘‘Plan’’): 3A 331.5␥ 4.1
Vessels shall proceed directly from the anchorages to the Canal or to sea 4A 357.0␥ 6.3
through the Eastern Channel. 5A 018.0␥ 3.8
(iii) Vessels leaving the Canal: 6A 023.0␥ 6.8
Direct to Sea: 7A 050.0␥ 5.8
They shall proceed through the Eastern Channel. 8A 042.0␥ 8.7
Anchoring in the Port: 9A 062.5␥ 8.1
10A 084.0␥ 7.2
Anchorage Groups A and B, Zone N.W. of Green Island 8C to 16C:
(b) Group ‘‘B’’:
They shall proceed through the Eastern Channel, then the Western
1B 102.5␥ 14.3
Channel and shall follow it till the place fixed for their anchorage. 2B 093.0␥ 12.0
Zone N.E. of Green Island from 1C to 7C: 3B 079.0␥ 12.5
Vessels shall come out of the Canal and proceed directly to this area. 4B 064.5␥ 13.8
(c) Priority of Movement in the port: 5B 090.5␥ 15.1
Priority of movement in the port shall be as follows: 6B 098.5␥ 17.3
(i) Vessels leaving the Canal. 7B 075.0␥ 16.8
( ii) Vessels proceeding to the Canal. 8B 095.5␥ 20.2
(iii) Vessels coming from sea must wait outside the port until the Eastern 9B 086.0␥ 20.3
Channel is clear. 10B 080.0␥ 15.0
(iv) Vessels leaving the anchorages of the Port of Suez. 11B 090.0␥ 17.8
(v ) Vessels coming out of the Basins (Ibrahim Basin – Adabeya – 12B 091.0␥ 22.0
Petroleum Basin). 13B 079.0␥ 19.2
(vi) Vessels using the New Petroleum Jetty. (c) Group ‘‘C’’:
(d) Priority of Passage in the Eastern Channel: 1C 218.5␥ 11.8
(i) Vessels leaving the Canal. 2C 208.5␥ 11.6
3C 188.0␥ 11.4
(ii) Vessels in anchorages of Port of Suez, and proceeding Southward to
4C 234.5␥ 8.6
sea, have to pass through the Eastern Channel.
5C 213.5␥ 8.1
Ships approaching Port of Suez from sea should wait outside until the 6C 170.5␥ 9.6
channel is clear. 7C 161.0␥ 10.8
(e) When Harbour Is Closed for Bad Weather: 8C 159.0␥ 9.0
(i) Vessels coming from sea: 9C 143.0␥ 9.4
It is recommended not to enter the Port of Suez when it is closed due to 10C 143.5␥ 12.4
foul weather which prevents the pilots from boarding the vessels. 11C 134.0␥ 12.0
However, any vessel who would like to enter on her own responsibility will 12C 145.0␥ 6.58
have to contact the wireless station (SUQ) and ask permission for doing so, 13C 123.0␥ 6.5
giving her draft and length in feet, by the following cable: 14C 105.5␥ 6.7
‘‘I wish to enter Suez Anchorage on my own responsibility. Length ..... Draft 15C 100.0␥ 4.7
..... feet’’. 16C 075.0␥ 4.8
If permission is granted, the Master will receive the following cable: (d) Group ‘‘D’’:
‘‘Port is closed. Entering on your own responsibility. Available anchorage 1D 345.5␥ 12.7
...’’. 2D 004.0␥ 12.4
(ii) Vessels leaving the Suez Canal: 3D 021.0␥ 13.1
In case, when the embarkation of the Roads pilot is not possible, the 4D 033.0␥ 14.7
following cable will be sent to the ship: 5D 043.0␥ 16.0
‘‘Owing to bad weather Roads pilot will not board your ship’’. 6D 047.0␥ 18.3
(e) Group ‘‘H’’:
The following will be added in case the vessel would ask for an anchorage:
1H 296.5␥ 12.5
‘‘Available anchorage ...’’. 2H 306.0␥ 14.8
(iii) Vessels anchored in the Port of Suez leaving for sea: (f) Adabeya Anchorage:
Vessels who would like to sail on their responsibility, will have to hoist the 1 059.0␥ 28.3
signal for pilot, send the following cable to SUQ and wait for orders. ‘‘I wish 2 054.5␥ 28.8
to go to sea on my own responsibility. Please confirm’’.
They may proceed if they receive the cable: S.C.A. Circular No. 3/96:
‘‘You may proceed to sea on your own responsibility’’. The Suez Canal Authority has decided to increase the draft of vessels that
anchor at Suez Inner Anchorage to be 40 ft. in Area (A) and 42 ft. in Area (D),
(2) Buoyage of Port of Suez: instead of 38 ft., except for LPG/LNG oil tankers; loaded and ballast (NGF)
(a) Buoy 2A – 281.5␥ – 20.9 cables from New Port Rock Light. and loaded chemicals.
(b) Buoy 3A – 278.5␥ – 26.9 cables from New Port Rock Light. These
buoys show flashing red (1) every 5 seconds. Article 10: Roads and Harbour Pilot Signals
(c) Buoyage of Port of Suez – Position of Green Island Light: Vessels requiring a Pilot for:
Lat. 29␥ 54.59' N., Long. 32␥ 31.80' E. 1) Entering from sea
(i) Eastern Channel (East of Green Island) is limited by the following buoys: 2) Sailing out to sea
In the East: 3) Changing berth
4) Entering the Canal
Buoy From Green Island Distance
should hoist a black ball over G by day and 3 white lights by night in a vertical
Light (m.)
line. These signals are to be hoisted where can best be seen.
Hm. 7.00 East 062␥ 2440
Hm. 14.00 East 080␥ 1820 SECTION II – Pilotage
Hm. 24.00 East 111␥ 1720 Article 11: Pilotage
Hm. 44.40 East 144␥ 3300 (A) General
Hm. 60.00 East 153␥ 4720 All vessels entering or leaving Canal waters, must take a Pilot (Pilotage
Hm. 70.50 East 166␥ 5720 is compulsory).
Hm. 80.50 East 159␥ 6680 However, the Suez Canal Authority reserves the right to assign a tug Master
on board vessels under 1,500 tons gross and under 800 tons gross, a
In the West: coxswain, instead of a Pilot.
Buoy From Green Island Distance Navy ships and any vessel carrying dangerous cargo must have a Pilot
Light (m.) regardless of their tonnage.
Hm. 1.00 West 050␥ 2600 Roads Pilots, on boarding vessels arriving from sea, hand over to the
Hm. 17.20 West 082␥ 1390 Master, the Declaration of State of Navigability and the Pilotage Form.
Hm. 21.00 West 108␥ 1260 Masters are held solely responsible for all damage or accidents of whatever
Hm. 44.40 West 150␥ 3110 kind resulting from the navigation or handling of their vessels directly or
Hm. 60.00 West 157␥ 4640 indirectly by day and night.
Hm. 70.50 West 160␥ 5630 The Pilot must inform the Movement Control Office or the Port Office
Hm. 80.50 West 162␥ 6630 immediately by W/T, and radio telex, Inmarsat and/or VHF or UHF, if his
(ii) Shallow water in the Green Island Zone is limited as follows: advice regarding the safety of navigation is not accepted or not respected
by the vessel.
North Buoy bearing 000␥ at a distance of 1,490 m. from Green Island Light,
(B) Port Said
showing flashing green light (1) every 2 seconds.
(1) Southbound Vessels:
Red Buoy of Hm. 17.20. (a) VLCCs, 4th Generation Container Ships, 3rd Generation Container
Red Buoy of Hm. 21.00. Ships, LASH vessels over 35,000 Suez Canal Gross tons, LPG and LNG
South-West Buoy bearing 239.5␥ at a distance of 780 m. from Green Island and vessels over 42 ft. draft are piloted from Northern Anchorage Area for
Light, showing group flashing green (3) every 7 seconds. Canal transit through the East Approach Channel.
West Buoy bearing 308␥ at a distance of 820 m. from Green Island Light, (b) Other vessels, either for local trade or intending to transit the Canal,
showing group flashing green (2) every 5 seconds. are piloted from Fairway Buoy to berths in the harbour through the West
Oil Jetty quick flashing white light. Channel.
(c) Vessels are piloted between Port Said Harbour and Port of Suez by (F) Calling Pilots unnecessarily
Canal Pilots who are relieved at Ismailia. When a vessel signals for Pilot, and it is found when boarding that she is
(2) Northbound Vessels: not ready to get underway in the limited time, the vessel is liable to be delayed
(a) Through East Branch, vessels are piloted to Km. 3.000. However, on and Pilot disembarked. The vessel will pay extra pilotage dues for the new
Master’s request, pilotage may extend to Hm. 80. Pilot as mentioned before.
(b) Through West Branch, vessels are piloted to Hm. 80 if weather permits. (G) Extra Pilots
However, on Master’s request, pilotage may end at Hm. 22 on Master’s (1) Extra pilots shall be assigned in the following cases:
responsibility. (a) Vessels over 80,000 Suez Canal Gross Tons.
(C) Port of Suez (b) 4th Generation Container Ships, 3rd Generation Container Ships and
(1) Northbound Vessels: LASH vessels of 35,000 Suez Canal Gross Tons and over.
(a) VLCCs, large bulk carriers, 4th Generation Container Ships, (c) Vessels having cargoes or installations impeding visibility from inside
3rd Generation Container Ships, LASH vessels over 35,000 Suez Canal the wheelhouse (bad view).
Gross tons, LPG and LNG (Loaded or not gas free) and vessels over 38 ft. (d) If a Pilot is disembarked and relieved by another Pilot, in case of slow
draft are piloted from anchorage area South of Conry Rock for Canal transit. speed vessels, vessels having troubles which prevent continuation of transit
(b) Other vessels are piloted from waiting area to anchorage area in the with same convoy, or vessels that have to transit by daylight only.
Port of Suez. (e) If vessel has no accommodation for the Pilot to rest while anchored in
(c) Vessels are piloted from Port of Suez and Port Said Harbour by Canal Bitter Lakes or making fast in mooring places for a long period.
Pilots who are relieved at Ismailia. (f) On Master’s request or by Suez Canal Authority if deemed necessary.
(2) Southbound Vessels:
(a) Southbound convoy and vessels in Port of Suez Anchorages sailing
CHAPTER II – ARRIVAL AND PREPARATION FOR TRANSIT
South are piloted to Hm. 80.50. However, on Master’s request, piloting may
end at Hm. 44.40 (New Port Rock). SECTION I – Pre-Arrival of Vessels
(b) Vessels have to maintain course through the channel till the last pair Article 12: Booking for transit
of buoys, keeping the Separation Zone on the port side. (1) Vessels may book for transiting the Canal. The booking notice shall
(D) Master and Pilot reach the Suez Canal Authority Offices not later than 4 days prior to the
(1) Master: transit date. It must contain the name, nationality of the vessel, her type
When a vessel is transiting the Canal, the Master or his qualified (container, Ro-Ro, etc. . . .) her draft, Suez Canal Gross Tonnage and
representative should be present at all times on the bridge; he has to keep deadweight tonnage.
the Pilot informed concerning any individual peculiarities in the handling of (2) Vessels booking for fixed date will have priority to catch the convoy
the vessel so that the Pilot might be in a position to give better advice to
on that date, if they arrive within the time limit defined by the present Rules.
control the navigation and movement of the vessel.
(3) Booking can be cancelled or altered by notice to the Suez Canal
(2) Pilot:
Authority offices at least 24 hours before the date booked for, otherwise the
The duties of Pilots commence and cease at the entrance buoys of Port
vessel shall be charged U.S.$100.00.
Said and Port of Suez. He only gives advice on manoeuvring the vessel,
courses to steer, etc. He puts at the disposal of the Master his experience (4) In case of VLCCs and similar vessels, this charge will be
and practical knowledge of the Canal, but as he cannot know the defects or U.S.$1,500.00 on account of the special arrangements made by the Suez
difficulties of manoeuvring every vessel, the responsibility falls completely Canal Authority.
upon the Master. The Pilot has to ensure the execution by the vessel of: (5) Vessels arriving without previous booking will catch the convoy if
a) The Articles of Rules of Navigation. capacity of movement in the Canal permits, otherwise they may catch the
b) The orders of transit given by Movement Control. following convoy.
The manoeuvre and orders are carried out under the direction of the Master Article 13: Notice of Arrival
who is solely responsible for the ship. Masters of vessels fitted with wireless apparatus are requested to transmit
It is therefore for the Master, taking into account the indications given by the following information to their Agents, 48 hours prior to the vessel’s arrival
the Pilot, to give the necessary orders to the helm, to the engines, and tugs. and to the Suez Canal Authority via SUQ.
If, in the interest of quick manoeuvres the Master thinks it preferable to allow (1) The name and nationality of the vessel, her ex-name if any.
the Pilot to give orders direct, manoeuvres carried out in these circumstances (2) Suez Canal gross tonnage and deadweight tonnage, draft and beam.
shall be considered as having been carried out on the order of the Master (3) Whether they intend transiting or merely stopping in the harbours and,
and on his sole responsibility. in this case, mention the duration of stay required.
(E) Moving in Suez Canal Waters without Pilot’s assistance (4) The ETA.
(1) Unless explicitly authorised by the Suez Canal Authority, the following (5) Whether they carry dangerous cargo, stating quantity* and class
must be considered: according to IMO’s regulations.
(a) Whenever a vessel moves in Canal Waters or Port Said Harbour * In case dangerous cargo is not declared or erroneous declaration, see
without having a Pilot on board, she shall be charged an additional due of Article 47b.
U.S.$21,500*. Article 14: Contacting Port Offices on Arrival
(b) An additional due of U.S.$3,200 shall be charged to vessels moving (a) Vessels have to contact the harbour office by VHF*.
in Port of Suez Anchorages, or entering or leaving Basins at Port of Suez * Port Said and Port of Suez on Channel 16.
without having a Pilot on board†. (1) 15 miles before arrival at Fairway Buoy off Port Said.
(c) These dispositions do not apply in the event of the Pilot being suddenly (2) Five miles before arrival at Separation Zone Buoy No. 1 off Port
unable to carry on with his duties owing to sickness or death. In this case, of Suez.
the Master must: (b) When in touch, give the following information: (b) When in
(i) Warn the vessels astern of his intended manoeuvre by means of the touch, give the following information:
visual and sound signals as well as UHF or VHF and W/T, or radio telex (1) Latitude and longitude.
and/or Inmarsat via SUQ. (2) Vessel’s name and call sign.
(ii) Reduce speed and contact Movement Office to have advice for (3) Suez Canal official number and code number.
making fast if in the Canal, or the entrance channels; or droping anchor if in (4) Suez Canal gross tonnage and deadweight tonnage.
the Lakes. (5) Draft.
(iii) The Movement Office at Ismailia is to be informed at all times by (6) Loaded or not.
UHF or VHF and confirmed by W/T or radio telex and/or Inmarsat via SUQ. (7) Kind of cargo.
* Vessels under 300 Suez Canal Gross Tons are subject to Rules of (8) Any defects affecting the safety of navigation.
Navigation for small craft. (9) If transiting the Canal for the first time she has to send:
† Vessels under 300 Suez Canal Gross Tons are exempted as per Law a) Date of building.
161/59. Suez Canal Tonnage Certificate, if available.
(2) Exceptions: b) Call sign or official number.
In case of bad weather to the extent of not allowing pilotage in Canal c) Length overall.
Approach channels, Masters will be authorised by notice from the Suez Canal d) Beam.
Port Office, to sail with their vessels on their own responsibility at the following e) Type of engines.
positions: f) In all cases, the Master must inform if aiming to transit the Canal or
(a) For Southbound convoy, from Km. 162 to sea.
just stay in the harbour.
(b) For Northbound convoy, from Km. 3.000 in East Port Said Channel
This information will assist the Harbour Master to identify the vessel through
Northward to sea.
his radar, acquire and assign her identification ‘‘ID’’ tag which will follow her
(c) For vessels leaving Port Said Harbour through West Approach
path until the other end.
Channel, from Hm. 22 Northward.
(d) For vessels anchoring in Port of Suez Anchorages wishing to head to (c) If failing to contact by the assigned Channels, Masters may use, with
sea, also for vessels in Waiting Area wishing to enter Port of Suez Anchorage the consent of the Harbour Master through the International R/T (2182 kHz)
Area. or SUQ (W/T) or Radio Telex or Inmarsat and/or any of the following VHF
(e) For vessels entering Port Said Harbour either for transiting Canal or frequencies: (c) If failing to contact by the assigned Channels, Masters may
for trade, through West Approach Channel till Hm. 50 approximately where use, with the consent of the Harbour Master through the International
Roads Pilot will board vessels. R/T (2182 kHz) or SUQ (W/T) or Radio Telex or Inmarsat and/or any of the
(f) For vessels entering Port Said East Approach Channel, between Hm. following VHF frequencies:
165 and Hm. 135 from VLCCs Anchorage Area to join Southbound convoy, (1) 156.650 (Channel 13) Port Said.
Canal Pilot will board vessels at Km. 0 of East Port Said Channel. (2) 156.600 (Channel 12) Port Said.
(g) For VLCCs and other large vessels joining Northbound convoy from (3) 156.550 (Channel 11) Port of Suez.
new anchorage area South of Conry Rock, Canal Pilots will board vessels (4) 156.700 (Channel 14) Port of Suez.
at Km. 161 approximately. (d) Any vessel who does not contact the Port offices during her approach
(h) For other vessels joining Northbound convoy from Port of Suez is subject to delays in catching the convoys. (d) Any vessel who does not
anchorages, Canal Pilots will board vessels at Km. 161 approx. contact the Port offices during her approach is subject to delays in catching
N.B.: (1) For items c, d, e, f, g and h, the time of proceeding will be fixed the convoys.
by Suez Canal Port Authority. (e) When berthing, changing berth or sailing, the Master must handle the
(i) An extra pilot, for assisting the pilot in charge, may be assigned on mooring ropes by mooring boats of a firm approved by the Suez Canal
Master’s request or by the Canal Authority if deemed necessary. Authority.
(ii) A due of U.S.$300 for every additional Canal Pilot and U.S.$150 for Article 15: Documents and Requirements
every additional Roads Pilot is charged. A. Documents to be produced are:
(iii) In all cases, advice will be given if necessary by shore radars to (1) Suez Canal Special Tonnage Certificate and Calculation Sheets
vessel’s Master. (3 copies if the first transit).
(2) Certificate of Registry and Ship’s Drawings (Capacity Plan and General Article 17: Change of Berth
Arrangement Plan of Accommodation and Machinery). (1) If the Master wishes to change the berth of his vessel, he should notify
(3) Statistical Declaration. the Harbour Office stating the desired time when the shift should take place.
(4) Extract from the vessel’s official documents and information concerning A tug or more will be imposed to assist in the manoeuvres.
the vessel’s type and her cargo (containers, barges, etc.). The change of berth will take place at the time fixed by the Harbour Office.
(5) Declaration concerning the use of double bottom tanks and the lower A Pilot will be sent to the vessel in due time.
parts of the high tanks. (2) Shifting at the Master’s request and the tugs used are charged for as
(6) Declaration concerning vessels in ballast. per rates set down by the Suez Canal Authority.
(7) Declaration of State of Navigability. (3) Charges for shifting due to erroneous or incomplete declarations by the
(8) The last Classification Certificate issued. Master must also be paid by the vessel.
(9) Any other information necessary for transiting the Canal. (4) When necessary, the Harbour Master may order a vessel to shift; when
(10) Piping Plan and General Arrangement Plan for LPG and LNG vessels. so ordered, it should be made as quickly as possible. In such a case it is
(11) (I.O.P.P.) International Oil Pollution Prevention Certificate of free of charge.
Compliance and its supplement for the record of construction and
SECTION II – Preparations for Transiting the Canal
equipment as amended for tanker vessels.
B. The Master of a vessel wishing to transit the Canal must register at the Article 18: Measures taken before entering the Canal
Canal Authority offices and pay the various dues. All vessels ready to enter the Canal must have their ladders and jib-booms
He must furnish the Canal Authority’s officials with all the particulars run in, their boats swung in and any derricks or cranes obstructing the view
requested. He must also furnish the Canal Authority officials with all the forward, lowered.
particulars requested by her Agent. Article 19: Mooring Ropes
C. The vessel must in addition comply with the requirements of the A.R.E. (1) At least 6 flexible floating mooring ropes of appropriate size for the
Government Authorities. vessel, in good condition, fitted with spliced eyes, must be in readiness for
D. In case the Canal Authority deems it necessary to be supplied with a any emergency, at suitable points on deck. All arrangements must be made
new Seaworthiness Certificate, the following Classification Societies are for their quick handling.
recognised to deliver same: (2) For vessels equipped with tension mooring wires, the number of floating
(1) Lloyd’s Register of Shipping. ropes may be reduced to 4. It is to be noted, however, that any mooring
(2) Bureau Veritas Francais. lines, likely to produce sparks by their manipulation are absolutely forbidden
(3) American Bureau of Shipping. on board petroleum tankers, LPG or LNG or any vessel carrying flammable
(4) Registro Navale Italiano. substances.
(5) Germanischer Lloyd. (3) It is recommended that:
(6) Norske Veritas. (a) One of the ropes which is selected as ‘‘first line ashore’’ must be of
(7) Russian Register. floating material to ensure quick securing to the shore.
(8) Nippon Kaiji Kyokai. (b) Wires should not exceed 5.5 in. circumference to facilitate handling.
(9) China Classification Society. (c) All vessels should have 2 fire ropes (wire) made fast, one forward
(10) Korean Register of Shipping. and one aft, hung over the vessel’s side ready for use in case of
Seaworthiness Certificates are accepted by the Suez Canal Authority in emergency.
Arabic or English. If written in any other language, it is to be translated in Article 20: Mooring Boats
one of these two above mentioned languages and duly certified by the (1) Vessels transiting the Canal must have mooring boats as mentioned
Embassy or Consulate of the Arab Republic of Egypt. hereafter hired from the Suez Canal Mooring Company approved by the Suez
E. Navy ships transiting the Suez Canal Waters must be provided with a Canal Authority.
Suez Canal Special Tonnage Certificate showing the Suez Canal Gross and In case no mooring boats from the said company are available, ship’s
Net Tonnages. boats if suitable for mooring (open type lifeboat) in the Canal can be used
If such document is not onboard, the Commanding Officer has to give, in and must be manned by shore crew, hired from the Suez Canal Mooring
writing, the following information: Company. Each boat is to be manned by three men.
(1) Name of Ship. (2) One mooring boat or one motor boat for vessels under 2,500 tons gross,
(2) Name of Commanding Officer. SCGT (SCGT ␦ Suez Canal Gross Tonnage).
(3) Call sign of the ship (Radio Call). (3) One mooring boat for ships from 2,500 to 5,000 tons SCGT.
(4) LOA, beam overall and depth of the ship. (4) Two motor boats or one motor boat and one mooring boat for vessels
As long as the ship is not provided with the Suez Canal Special Tonnage from 5,000 tons SCGT to 30,000 tons SCGT.
Certificate, transit dues will be levied on the temporary Gross Tonnage (5) Two motor boats for vessels over 30,000 tons SCGT.
product of the empirical formula without any allowance till the presentation (6) Ships may ask for additional motor boats or mooring boats according
of the documents required. to Master’s request. These mooring boats must be in constant readiness for
F. Erroneous Declarations: lowering to run the ropes to the mooring posts without any delay during the
If the Canal Authority Officials discover false information concerning the transit of the vessel.
cargo carried* or the ship’s situation ballast or loaded, resulting from the (7) Ships must be fitted with well maintained lifting appliances capable of
shipping clerk’s or the Master’s negligence, in documents held, the tolls lifting mooring boats of 4 tons weight (including crew members).
difference will be doubled. (8) Ships may carry extra mooring boats as passengers for the interest of
The tolls difference means the difference between the correct and the navigation. However, LPG, LNG and Loaded Tankers are not allowed to
wrong amount of transit dues. carry any extra boats.
* e.g. The carriage of sweet water as cargo and declared as ship’s water (9) The handling of mooring boats must be carried out well clear from the
ballast; the omission of declaring the presence or quantity of containers on ship’s propellers.
the weather deck or any cargo onboard, passengers, etc. . . . (10) Masters are requested to reduce speed during lifting or lowering
Article 16: Stay in the Harbour operations of mooring boats. An officer must be in charge, to avoid accidents
A. The Master is responsible for the mooring of his vessel in Port Said that may endanger the life of mooring men.
(11) If the vessel has no means for lifting mooring boats and ship’s boats
Harbour and Port of Suez.
are not suitable for mooring (closed type lifeboat) in the Canal, the vessel
B. Mooring Lashing Ropes: For the safety and quick berthing of vessels in
shall not be allowed to transit the Canal.
Port Said Harbour, the only lashing ropes allowed to be used for fixing ship’s
ropes on the buoys are those provided by the Suez Canal Mooring and Light Article 21: Spreaders (Slings)
Company. For this purpose, the said company provides vessels making fast Container ships are advised to have their own spreaders (slings) to assist
unloading and reloading containers in case of necessity. Those carrying
in the harbour with 2 in. Manilla or Sisal ropes. This service is against
different sizes of containers must have their own spreaders.
U.S.$ 40.00 per vessel to be added to the invoice of the Suez Canal Mooring
and Light Company. Article 22: Indicators
C. The Master is to pay attention to the instructions hereunder: There must be a rudder angle indicator and an engine RPM indicator in
the wheelhouse so located and illuminated as to be easily visible by the Pilot
(1) When the vessel is moored to the buoys, the mooring ropes must be
(erroneous indicators are considered defective).
watched to ensure safe mooring. If two vessels are moored to the same buoy,
when one leaves, the other must adjust her moorings. Article 23: Bow Anchors
(2) Masters must comply with the Harbour Master’s advice regarding 1. Any transiting vessel must be equipped with 2 classed anchors forward
mooring ropes during the stay of their vessel in port; especially when, in case of the collision bulkhead. Each anchor must be fitted with its own chain
or wire cable, and be capable of being released, and raised independently
of expected bad weather, it is necessary to increase the moorings if required.
by means of a windlass or capstan.
(3) When a vessel is moored with her stern to the bank, the Master must
2. In lieu of 1, vessels of less than 1,500 SCGT must be equipped with one
keep himself continuously informed of the depth of water aft, to avoid working anchor.
grounding on the submerged slope either as a result of the settling of the
Article 24: Accommodation and Pilot Ladders
vessel as she loads, or her proximity to the bank.
A. Pilot Ladder:
(4) At night, the vessel, whether moored or manoeuvring, must show the
(1) In anchorage areas, outside the Canal, North or South, pilot ladders
lights prescribed by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at can be used to embark and disembark Pilots.
sea, in addition to the Suez Canal Light Signals. The ladder shall be secured in such position that each step rests firmly
(5) Unless authorised, barges alongside a vessel must not be more than against the vessel’s side and so that the Pilot can have safe access to the
two abreast. vessel. Whenever the distance from sea level to the point of access to the
(6) It is forbidden to try projectors, or to turn the propellers during the vessel is more than 12 ft. (or 3.65 m.), access from the pilot ladder to the
process of warming-up, in the absence of the Pilot, or without informing him vessel shall be by means of an accommodation ladder or other equally safe
when onboard. and convenient means.
(7) Vessels must not put their engines out of working order for any reason (2) The treads of the pilot ladder shall not be less than 19 in. long, 4.5 in.
whatsoever without permission from the Canal Authority. wide and 1 in. in thickness. Steps shall be joined in such a manner as will
(8) The Master must always keep onboard sufficient crew to ensure efficient provide a ladder of adequate strength with treads maintained in a horizontal
handling of the moorings, fire fighting and damage control. position and not less than 12 in. or more than 15 in. apart.
(9) The Harbour Master or his delegate should have free access onboard (3) A man-rope properly secured, and a safety line shall be available and
to ensure the carrying out of the Regulations, to verify the vessel’s ready for use if required.
seaworthiness, and to ascertain that dangerous cargo onboard complies with (4) Handholds are to be provided to assist the Pilot to pass safely and
the Suez Canal Regulations. conveniently from the head of the ladder into the vessel or on to the vessel’s
(10) Vessels cancelling berth booking at Port Said for commercial deck and vice versa.
operations, bunkering, etc., must do so 6 hours prior to arrival, otherwise, an (5) If necessary, spreaders shall be provided at such distance as will
additional due of U.S.$300.00 will be charged. prevent the ladder from twisting.
(6) Arrangements shall be such as: (6) For vessels fitted with their own projector, 2 shore electricians should
(a) The rigging of the ladder, the embarkation and disembarkation of the operate it during the transit.
Pilot is supervised by a responsible officer of the vessel. (7) Vessels with special cases:
(b) A self igniting life buoy is to be available at hand. (a) LPG and LNG vessels, without any exception, must be provided with
B. Accommodation Ladders their own searchlight.
(1) Accommodation ladders are to be used in the Canal, harbours and (b) Vessels entering the Canal, direct from sea, must also be provided
lakes to embark and disembark Pilots. with their own searchlight.
(2) In case no accommodation ladder is available, or difficult to rig, the (c) Newly built tugs and yachts up to 1,500 SCGT can transit the Canal
vessel has to inform S.C.A. before entering harbour or Canal. The change with their own projectors, on condition that the unit is equipped with at least
of Pilot which is originally carried out at Ismailia, will take place in the Bitter 2 projectors, each with a capacity of not less than 1,000 watts for each.
Lakes after anchoring. In such case, the vessel will be charged an extra (8) If electrical connections and/or searchlight do not conform, the vessel
U.S.$300.00 as pilotage dues for each relieving Pilot. is liable to transit only in daylight and therefore subject to delay.
(3) Ships with freeboard of less than 10 ft. may use pilot ladder. An additional due of U.S.$4,300 will be imposed when the searchlight
Article 25: Efficiency of Vessel’s Equipment and/or electrical connections do not conform for the 3rd and each following
(1) Before entering the Canal it must be ascertained that main engines, transit.
compasses, steering gear, engine room, telegraph, rudder angle and r.p.m. Article 29: Overhead Lights (Deck Lights)
indicators, W/T, VHF and radar are in good working order. Overhead lights visible all round the horizon with a minimum range of
(2) Every vessel navigating in the Suez Canal Waters under the advice of 200 m. (roughly 650 ft.).
the Suez Canal Pilot, should maintain bridge and engine bell books. Article 30: Bridge Wing Projectors
(3) In the bridge bell book, each engine movement and the time of its Bridge wing projectors on either side of the bridge must be fitted to show
transmission from the bridge to the engine room is to be recorded as well the Canal banks clearly during the transit and mooring operations, and must
as in the engine room bell book. have the following characteristics:
(4) No vessel is required to maintain any bell books if equipped with an Power about 4 LUX at an atmospheric transmission factor (T ␦ 0.74) and
automatic device which produces a permanent legible record of every engine minimum range 200 m.
movement. Article 31: Funnels
(5) The bell books and the automatic records must be handed, upon Funnels must be lit to facilitate the identification of the vessel by night.
request, to the Suez Canal Officials for the purpose of investigation if Article 32: Bridge and Engine Room Communications
necessary. Communication system between engine room and bridge must be in good
Article 26: Deck Cargo working condition.
(1) Deck cargo is to be stowed in a way so as to provide a clear view from Article 33: Pumping – Draining Arrangements
the navigating bridge while transiting the Canal, as well as not to affect the The pumps and pumping arrangements including valves, pipes and
vessel’s stability. strainers from holds as well as from the engine and boiler spaces must be
(2) The deck cargo should not protrude more than half the vessel’s breadth in good working condition.
on any side, with a maximum of 15 m. on each side if breadth exceeds
30 m.*† Article 34: Watertight Bulkheads and Doors
(3) If the protrusion exceeds the maximum allowed, each case is to be All watertight bulkheads and doors are required to be in good efficient
studied separately, and an additional due of 2% of the transit dues is levied condition.
on each foot or fraction of foot in excess. Article 35: Draft Marks
* Containers on container ships are not considered as deck cargo. All vessels shall have the draft plainly marked and painted upon the stem,
† Specially built vessels and barges carrying drillers or bulky deck cargo to amidships (including Plimsoll Mark and Deck Line) and stern post or rudder
be studied each separately. post, according to Load Line Convention.
Article 27: Water Ballast Article 36: Whistles and/or Sirens
Vessels in ballast must fill spaces intended to be used for carrying water Whistles and sirens must be always ready for use, as prescribed in Part
ballast in such proportion as the Officials of the Suez Canal Authority may III, Art. 92.
direct. Article 37: Firefighting Equipment on Vessels
Article 28: Searchlight (1) Vessels transiting the Canal should be equipped with the fire fighting
Before transiting the Canal, the vessel should be provided with a searchlight equipment in accordance with the requirements of S.O.L.A.S. and its
(projector) complying with the following conditions and specifications. amendments. All equipment should be in a good and efficient condition.
(1) It should be placed on the bow in the axis of the vessel and show the (2) Fire hoses with suitable nozzles attached shall be connection to the
Canal clearly. outlets of fire lines at all times while in Canal waters. Sufficient hoses shall
(2) Specifications are as follows: be connected to reach all parts of the vessel.
(a) Minimum range of radiation of single beam 1,800 m. ahead (3) When approaching Canal waters, as precautionary measures, all
(brightness of 1 Lux approximately, at the atmospheric transmission vessels must have fire wires hanging over the side ready for use fore and
factor T ␦ 0.85). aft, before entering Canal waters.
(b) The power of the lamp must give a luminous intensity of single light Article 38: Side Doors
beam not less than 3 million candela, which is equivalent to high When side doors are used for boarding, and the minimum vertical distance
efficiency incandescent lamp of: between the waterline and the bottom of the side door is less than 6 ft., they
(i) 2,000 Watts for vessels up to 30,000 S.C. gross tons. should be closed immediately after embarking and disembarking of Pilot and
(ii) 3,000 Watts for vessels over 30,000 S.C. gross tons. during transit through the Canal.
(c) The drum and stand should be of high corrosion resisting material Article 39: Manning Vessels
and can be operated both horizontally and vertically. The crew of vessels intending to transit the Canal should have efficient
(d) The front glass must be of hardened type and can stand rapid cooling. and good knowledge of their vessel and be sufficient in number to permit
(e) The reflector must be in two halves of precise ground glass mirror of safe handling of the vessel during transit.
highest quality or of polished aluminium having at least 95% the Article 40: Deck Watch & Engine Room
reflective capacity of the glass mirror. When underway in Canal Waters the vessels shall keep a full watch on
(f) The two halves of the reflector can be brought together (zero position) the bridge and in the engine room, as well as anchor watch.
to make a single reflector light beam and can be parted to give two Article 41: Special Arrangements for VLCCs (See Article 58).
separate light beams each of 5␥ at least, on the horizontal level with
Article 42: Accommodation
adjustable dark sector from 0 to 10␥.
(1) A suitable (Officer Class) accommodation is to be put at the Pilot’s
(g) The searchlight drum must be watertight (presssure test
disposal while anchoring in the Bitter Lakes or made fast in mooring places
0.25 kg./sq.cm.) and gastight (according to the classification rules for
alongside the Canal. In case of no suitable accommodation available, the
the vessel’s electric appliances within dangerous areas) and provided
vessel will pay extra dues of U.S.$.300.00 for each relieving Pilot. She may
with a vent-out to which a flexible hose can be fitted on the drum to
be delayed if no relieving Pilot is available.
dissipate the heated air out of the searchlight in addition to a safety
(2) A sheltered place is to be provided for the mooring boatmen (3 to 6 men
vent.
according to the size of the vessel) and 2 shore electricians for the projector,
On vessels carrying petroleum products, LPG or LNG or
during transit.
inflammable substances, or vessels Not Gas Free, exit of hot air must
be effectuated in a place devoid of inflammable gas. Article 43: Vessels Carrying Timber
(h) The searchlight must be equipped with 2 lamps carrier that can be (1) The timber deck cargo shall be compactly stowed, lashed and secured
turned into position to let the lamp exactly in the focus of the reflector, in a way that it shall not hinder navigation and allow safe access on deck.
and the current must be switched on automatically. (2) The loading must not exceed the Tropical Timber Load Line (LT). The
(i) The electric system (switches, plug, socket and cables) must be of height of the deck cargo above the weather deck shall not exceed one third
first class marine type. The degree of protection IP 55 or similar of the extreme breadth of the vessel.
standards. Article 44: Life Saving Appliances
(j) The searchlights must have a certificate for the ‘‘Type Test’’ issued Life saving appliances for vessels navigating in the Canal Waters should
by one of the Classification Societies (Lloyd’s Register, etc.). The meet with the requirements of SOLAS and amendments.
original to be submitted to Suez Canal officials and thereby after test Article 45: Anchor Watch
by S.C.A. inspection, the searchlight can be accepted. An anchor watch is to be established during bad weather or poor visibility
and when advised by the Pilot.
(3) On all vessels of whatever type, electric cable installations for Article 46: Stoppage in Canal
searchlight and all electrical connections leading to it must be permanently When anchored in the Bitter Lakes, Lake Timsah or stopped in the Canal,
fixed, insulated and gastight. the engines should always be ready for use.
At the end of the cables a fixed and gastight socket should be installed Note: In case of failure to comply with any of the previous requirements,
close to the searchlight. a vessel may be delayed from joining the convoy and/or may be subject to
(4) On board vessels electrically propelled or having electrically driven gear special arrangements for her transit. This includes imposing convoying tug
(steering, winches, etc.), the number of generators and their individual power boats. Access to the Canal may also be refused.
output must be sufficient to ensure uninterrupted functioning of the searchlight
in the event of stoppage of one of the generators. SECTION III – – Interdiction to Enter Canal
No exception to this rule will be allowed except when there is an Article 47: Vesssel not allowed to Transit
independent generator and circuit on board specifically set apart for the A vessel will not be allowed to transit the Canal in any of the following
searchlight. cases:
(5) The portable projector can be hired locally from the Canal Mooring and A. Any vessel whose Tropical Load Line is submerged, or Plimsoll Marks
Light Company and weighs about 22 kg. not plainly visible (Overloaded).
B. Any vessel considered by the Suez Canal Officials, dangerous for (2) 3rd and 4th Generation Container Ships with more than one propeller
navigation. astern shall be ahead of this convoy to anchor at Timsah Lake (maximum
C. If carrying dangerous cargo and not conforming to the Part V of these two vessels).
Rules or carrying prohibited cargoes. (3) Vessels will make fast in Ballah West Branch (Maximum capacity
D. If having a list more than 3 degrees. 15 vessels according to the number of berths at Ballah Loop), and continue
E. If trimmed in a way causing bad manoeuvrability. route after the last Northbound vessel clears Km. 61.
F. If having deck loads protruding from vessel’s sides in a manner (4) Dimensions of vessels that can make fast at Ballah West Branch should
endangering the safety of transit (see Article 26). not exceed those indicated in the following table, excluding tankers over
G. If the vessel is so tender or loaded in a manner that dangerously affects 90,000 SCGT (Subject to alteration according to Canal Developing Projects).
her stability. Beam Draft
H. If her draft is in excess of the maximum permitted according to these (ft.) (m.) (cm.) (ft.) (in.)
Rules. 135 41 15 42 0
I. For VLCCs and ULCCs, if there is bad weather. 136 41 45 41 8
J. The Suez Canal Authority may consider delaying the entry to the Canal 137 41 76 41 5
in cases of bad weather. 138 42 06 41 1
K. Any vessel without anchors. 139 42 37 40 9
Article 47B: 140 42 67 40 6
(1) The Suez Canal Authority reserves the right to refuse access to Canal 141 42 98 40 3
Waters to any vessel in case of carrying prohibited cargoes, and in case of 142 43 28 39 11
non or erroneous declaration of the presence of dangerous cargo on board, 143 43 59 39 8
such as ammunition, explosives, radioactive substances, etc. 144 43 89 39 5
(2) If the dangerous cargo mentioned in para (1) is discovered during the 145 44 20 39 1
transit, the Suez Canal Authority reserves the right to refuse access to Canal 146 44 50 38 10
Waters to this vessel for a period not exceeding two years. An additional due 147 44 80 38 7
of U.S.$43,000 will be imposed for this violation. 148 45 11 38 4
SECTION IV – Proceeding to the Canal (5) Vessels not allowed to join this convoy are the following:
Article 48: General (a) Loaded Tankers (or Bulk Carriers) carrying Petroleum Grade A or
(1) Masters shall ask for Pilots by clearly displaying ‘‘G’’ flag by day and similar substances (flash point below 23␥C or 73␥F, ascertained by
3 white lights at night, at least two hours before the time they expect their an open test or of any equal degree of accuracy).
vessel to be ready to get underway. (b) Liquified inflammable gas vessels (LPG, LNG, or similar loaded or
(2) Singling Up should not be before the Pilot is on board. ballasted not gas free vessels).
(3) When several vessels are ready to get underway at the same time, the (c) Vessels not fitted with double bottoms carrying chemicals in bulk.
order of their sailing will be fixed by the Canal Authority. (d) Vessels carrying uncontainerised radioactive substance Group 1.
(4) All vessels must stop whenever the passage ahead is not clear. (e) Vessels carrying dangerous waste.
(5) They must slow down passing collapsed or under repair banks, as well (f) Heavy lifters (semi-submersible) carrying heavy lift units with tonnage
as when passing all vessels in sidings, hoppers, dredgers and other floating exceeding the lifting capacity of their individual cranes.
plants made fast. (g) Vessels carrying deck cargo protruding more than what is stated in
(6) As soon as a vessel is made fast, she must hoist the signals pendant Article 26 of these Rules.
No. 2 by day and red light aft at night. The vessel must be ready to slack (h) Vessels over 90,000 SCGT.
down ropes or cut them if need be. Engines must always be ready for (i) Navy ships.
manoeuvring.
Article 50: Limit Time of Arrival to Join Convoys (Summertime may be
CHAPTER III – CONVOY SYSTEM - MAXIMUM DIMENSIONS, TOWAGE kept)
AND ESCORTING
SECTION I – Convoy System (A) Southbound Convoy
Article 49: Formation of Convoys (1) 4th Generation Container Ships, 3rd Generation Container Ships,
A 3 convoy system is applied in the Suez Canal. VLCCs in ballast and loaded vessels over 42 ft. draft who will anchor in the
(A) Northbound Convoy New Anchorage Area (V berths) N.W. of Port Said and declared by Agents
(1) Starts at 0600 hrs. at Km. 160 and consists of 2 groups of vessels (a ready for transit, have to reach the Anchorage Area within the limit time of
third group may enter Canal from 0300 hrs. to 0430 hrs. according to traffic 1900 hrs. (Ships arriving from 1900 hrs. to 2100 hrs. may join the first
situation). Southbound Convoy (N1) against an additional charge of 5% of transit dues.
(a) Group A Ships arriving after 2100 hrs. until 2200 hrs. can also join the first Southbound
(i) Navy ships, 4th Generation Container Ships, 3rd Generation Container Convoy (N1) against an additional charge of 10% of transit tolls).
Ships over 40,000 SCGT and similar, LASH vessels over 35,000 SCGT, LPG (2) Other ships entering from Port Said harbour have to reach the
and LNG (Loaded or not gas free) and loaded chemical carriers (See Article Anchorage Area (C Berths) within the limit time of 1900 hrs.
54). (3) Ships arriving after the limit time of 1900 hrs. and not later than
(ii) Loaded VLCCs, conventional loaded tankers and heavy bulk carriers, 0300 hrs. (Ships arriving from 0300 hrs. to 0400 hrs. may join the second
(draft over 38 ft. or length over 950 ft. B.P.). Southbound Convoy (N2) against an additional charge of 5% of transit dues.
(b) Group B Ships arriving after 0400 hrs. until 0500 hrs. can join the second Southbound
Cargo and other vessels anchored in Suez Anchorages. Convoy (N2) against an additional charge of 10% of transit tolls), will join the
(2) The Northbound convoy has a free run from Port of Suez till Port Said. second Southbound Convoy either from Port or direct from sea and be
It passes through the East Kabrit Channel, the Eastern Dredged Channel in declared by Agents ready for transit, providing the capacity of the Canal
the Bitter Lakes, the Deversoir East Channel, the East Channel of Lake permits (See Article 49 (C)).
Timsah, the East Channel of Ballah Loop and the East Channel from Km.
17 Northward. (B) Northbound Convoy
(3) In case the Northbound convoy has to stop in the Bitter Lakes due to (1) Ships anchoring South of Conry Rock: 4th Generation Container Ships,
traffic situation of Southbound convoy or any emergency, the following must 3rd Generation Container Ships, VLCCs, super tankers, heavy bulk carriers,
be considered: LASH vessels over 35,000 S.C.G.T., LPG and LNG (Loaded or not gas free)
(a) Container vessels heading the convoy will drop anchor in the suitable and vessels over 38 ft. draft, have to reach the Anchorage Area (V Berths)
East Anchorage Areas of the Bitter Lakes. and be declared by Agents ready for transit within the limit time of 0100 hrs.
(b) VLCCs will anchor in the suitable East Anchorage according to their (Ships arriving from 0100 hrs. to 0300 hrs. may join Tanker Group against
draft. additional charge of 5% of transit dues. Ships arriving after 0300 hrs. but
(c) All other vessels will anchor in the East Area corresponding to their before 0330 hrs. can also join Tanker Group against additional charge of
draft. 10% of transit dues).
(d) 3 berths are available in Kabrit East Branch, in case of emergency. (2) Other vessels who will anchor North of Conry Rock have to reach the
Note: For safety measures, LPG and LNG vessels in ballast or loaded, and Waiting Area and be declared by Agents ready for transit within limit time of
loaded chemicals in bulk are included in the Tankers group. 0300 hrs. (Ships entitled to join the ordinary group, can arrive after 0300 hrs.
(B) Southbound Convoy (N1) up until 0330 hrs. against an additional charge of 5% of transit dues).
(1) Starts from 0000 hrs. to 0500 hrs. and consists of 3 groups of vessels: (C) In all cases, the documents required should be produced before the
(a) Group A: Vessels in Port Said Harbour. passage of the vessel to the Canal Office at Port Said or Port of Suez.
(b) Group B: Vessels anchored in the Northern Anchorage Area consisting Suez Canal Authority Circular No. 13/95:
of 4th Generation Container Ships, 3rd Generation Container Ships, VLCCs Issued by the Director of Transit (Amended 11th December 1997).
in ballast, vessels over 42 ft. draft, LPG, LNG and not gas free vessels (LPG, Circular No. 3/94 is to be cancelled and replaced by the following:
LNG and vessels not gas free may join Group A) in ballast or loaded and In favourable navigational conditions, the limit time for arrivals from North
LASH over 35,000 SCGT. This group will be headed by the Container Ships
and South is to be extended as shown below:
and the first vessel will enter through Port Said East Approach Channel in
(1) First Southbound Convoy:
due time to join Group A at Km. 17.
(c) Group C: Vessels anchored in Southern Anchorage Area will enter (a) Vessels arriving between 1900 hrs. and 2100 hrs. can join the first
through Port Said West Channel in due time to join Group B at Km. 17. Southbound Convoy against the payment of a surcharge equal to 3%
(2) This convoy has a free run to the Bitter Lakes, passes through the East of the normal transit dues, with a maximum of SDR 7,000.
Branch of Ballah By-Pass, the East Channel of Lake Timsah, the Deversoir (b) Vessels arriving after 2100 hrs. and up to 2200 hrs. can join the first
West Channel (except for vessels with draft of more than 42 ft. will pass Southbound Convoy against the payment of a surcharge equal to 5%
through East Channel), and anchors in the Western Anchorages in Bitter of the normal transit dues, with a maximum of SDR 10,500.
Lakes. (2) Second Southbound Convoy:
(3) The sequence of continued route from the Bitter Lakes will be warships, (a) Vessels arriving between 0300 hrs. and 0400 hrs. can join the Second
LPG, LNG vessels, the 4th Generation Container Ships and 3rd Generation Southbound Convoy against the payment of a surcharge equal to 3%
Container Ships over 35,000 SCGT followed by VLCCs in ballast and then of the normal transit dues, with a maximum of SDR 7,000.
other vessels. The first ship of the Southbound convoy will regulate speed (b) Vessels arriving after 0400 hrs. and up to 0500 hrs. can still join the
to cross the last Northbound vessel abeam of Kabrit Station. Second Southbound Convoy against the payment of a surcharge equal
(C) Southbound Second Convoy (N2) to 5% of the normal transit dues, with a maximum of SDR 10,500.
(1) Starts from 0630 hrs. to 0900 hrs. The forming and depth of this convoy
is subject to situation of traffic and limit time.
(3) Northbound Convoy: Table II
1. Ships that are allowed to join the tanker group: Beam and Draft (Amended)
(a) When arriving between 0100 hrs. and 0300 hrs. such ships can join Loaded Vessels (Southbound and Northbound):
the tanker group against the payment of a surcharge equal to 3% Beam Draft
of the normal transit dues, with a maximum of SDR 7,000. (ft.) (in.) (m.) (ft.) (in.)
(b) When arriving after 0300 hrs. and up to 0330 hrs. such ships can 172 1 52.45 59 1
still join the tanker group against the payment of a surcharge equal 172 4 52.52 59 0
to 5% of the normal transit dues, with a maximum of SDR 10,500. 172 7 52.60 58 11
2. (Amended 11th December 1997) Ordinary ships allowed to join the 172 10 52.67 58 10
Northbound Convoy: 173 1 52.75 58 9
(a) Ordinary ships arriving between 0300 hrs. and 0400 hrs. can join 173 4 52.83 58 8
this convoy against a surcharge of 3% of the normal transit dues 173 7 52.90 58 7
with a maximum of SDR 7,000. 173 10 52.98 58 6
(b) When arriving between 0400 hrs. and 0500 hrs., they are allowed 174 1 53.06 58 5
to join the same convoy against a surcharge of 5% of the transit 174 4 53.13 58 4
tolls with a maximum of SDR 10,500. 174 7 53.21 58 3
174 10 53.28 58 2
This Circular takes effect as of 1st January 1996.
175 1 53.36 58 1
Suez Canal Authority Circular No. 1/96: 175 4 53.44 58 0
Dated June 1996. 175 7 53.51 57 11
The Suez Canal Authority has decided that the limit time for arrival to join 175 10 53.59 57 10
the convoys will be on the basis of passing the following latitudes: 176 1 53.67 57 9
1. Port Said: South of Lat. 31␥ 28.7' N. 176 4 53.74 57 8
2. Port Tewfik: Tanker Group – North of Lat. 29␥ 42.8' N. 176 7 53.82 57 7
Ordinary Group – North of Lat. 29␥ 48.33' N. 176 10 53.89 57 6
177 1 53.97 57 5
This Circular comes into effect as of 1st July 1996. 177 4 54.05 57 4
Article 51: Courses to Keep on Leaving for Sea 177 7 54.12 57 3
(A) At Port Said 177 10 54.20 57 2
Vessels of Northbound convoy have to maintain course through the East 178 1 54.27 57 1
Approach Channel till Hm. 195 then alter course North (000␥) for five miles 178 5 54.38 57 0
before altering to destination. 178 8 54.45 56 11
(B) At Port of Suez 178 11 54.53 56 10
Vessels proceeding to sea have to maintain course through the channel 179 2 54.61 56 9
till the last pair of buoys, then keep the Separation Zone on the port side till 179 5 54.68 56 8
the Separation Zone Buoy No. 1. 179 8 54.76 56 7
180 0 54.86 56 6
SECTION II – Maximum Dimensions (Vessel’s Sizes and Drafts) 180 3 54.94 56 5
Article 52: Dimensions of Vessels Authorised to Transit 180 6 55.01 56 4
These dimensions are given hereunder: (For drilling and towed units – 180 9 55.09 56 3
See Appendix). 181 0 55.16 56 2
(a) Max. length: No restrictions. 181 4 55.27 56 1
(b) Max. beam: 245 ft. 181 7 55.34 56 0
Note: (1) Vessels with beam over 210 ft. are allowed to transit in calm 181 10 55.42 55 11
weather, i.e. beam wind not exceeding 10 knots. 182 1 55.49 55 10
(2) Vessels with beam over 245 ft. may transit Canal under special request. 182 5 55.60 55 9
(c) Max. draft: Tables I and II give the maximum draft authorised in relation 182 8 55.67 55 8
to the beam of vessel according to the following: 182 11 55.75 55 7
(i) Table ‘‘I’’: For vessels in ballast transiting in either direction. 183 2 55.82 55 6
(ii) Table ‘‘II’’: For loaded vessels transiting in either direction. 183 6 55.93 55 5
Also see Circular No. 1/2001 (before Article No. 53). 183 9 56.00 55 4
184 0 56.08 55 3
Draft for Vessels in Ballast Transiting 184 4 56.18 55 2
North or Southbound (See ‘‘Notes’’ below) 184 7 56.26 55 1
Beam Maximum Draft 184 10 56.33 55 0
Up to Forward Aft 185 2 56.43 54 11
245 ft. (74.67 m.) 32 ft. (9.75 m.) 36 ft. (11.0 m.) 185 5 56.51 54 10
185 9 56.61 54 9
Notes: (1) Vessels of a beam over 210 ft. transit the Canal in a beam 186 0 56.69 54 8
wind not exceeding 10 knots. 186 3 56.76 54 7
(2) Vessels of a beam over 245 ft. may be allowed to transit the Canal 186 7 56.87 54 6
under special request. 186 10 56.94 54 5
Also see Circular No. 1/2001 before Article 53. 187 2 57.04 54 4
Table II 187 5 57.12 54 3
Beam and Draft (Amended) 187 9 57.22 54 2
Loaded Vessels (Southbound and Northbound): 188 0 57.30 54 1
Beam Draft 188 3 57.37 54 0
(ft.) (in.) (m.) (ft.) (in.) 188 7 57.48 53 11
164 0 49.98 62 0 188 10 57.55 53 10
164 3 50.06 61 11 189 2 57.65 53 9
164 5 50.11 61 10 189 6 57.75 53 8
164 8 50.19 61 9 189 9 57.83 53 7
164 11 50.26 61 8 190 1 57.93 53 6
165 1 50.31 61 7 190 4 58.01 53 5
165 4 50.39 61 6 190 8 58.11 53 4
165 7 50.46 61 5 190 11 58.19 53 3
165 9 50.52 61 4 191 3 58.29 53 2
166 0 50.59 61 3 191 7 58.39 53 1
166 3 50.67 61 2 191 10 58.47 53 0
166 5 50.72 61 1 192 2 58.57 52 11
166 8 50.80 61 0 192 5 58.64 52 10
166 11 50.87 60 11 192 9 58.75 52 9
167 2 50.95 60 10 193 1 58.85 52 8
167 4 51.00 60 9 193 4 58.92 52 7
167 7 51.07 60 8 193 8 59.02 52 6
167 10 51.15 60 7 194 0 59.13 52 5
168 1 51.23 60 6 194 3 59.20 52 4
168 3 51.28 60 5 194 7 59.30 52 3
168 6 51.35 60 4 194 11 59.41 52 2
168 9 51.43 60 3 195 3 59.51 52 1
169 0 51.51 60 2 195 6 59.58 52 0
169 3 51.58 60 1 195 10 59.69 51 11
169 6 51.66 60 0 196 2 59.79 51 10
169 8 51.71 59 11 196 6 59.89 51 9
169 11 51.79 59 10 196 10 59.99 51 8
170 2 51.86 59 9 197 1 60.07 51 7
170 5 51.94 59 8 197 5 60.17 51 6
170 8 52.01 59 7 197 9 60.27 51 5
170 11 52.09 59 6 198 1 60.37 51 4
171 1 52.14 59 5 198 5 60.47 51 3
171 4 52.22 59 4 198 9 60.57 51 2
171 7 52.29 59 3 199 1 60.68 51 1
171 10 52.37 59 2 199 4 60.75 51 0
Table II Table II
Beam and Draft (Amended) Beam and Draft (Amended)
Loaded Vessels (Southbound and Northbound): Loaded Vessels (Southbound and Northbound):
Beam Draft Beam Draft
(ft.) (in.) (m.) (ft.) (in.) (ft.) (in.) (m.) (ft.) (in.)
199 8 60.85 50 11 237 10 72.49 42 9
200 0 60.96 50 10 238 4 72.64 42 8
200 4 61.06 50 9 238 9 72.77 42 7
200 8 61.16 50 8 239 3 72.92 42 6
201 0 61.26 50 7 239 9 73.07 42 5
201 4 61.36 50 6 240 2 73.20 42 4
201 8 61.46 50 5 240 8 73.35 42 3
202 0 61.56 50 4 241 2 73.50 42 2
202 4 61.67 50 3 241 7 73.63 42 1
202 8 61.77 50 2 242 1 73.78 42 0
203 0 61.87 50 1 242 7 73.93 41 11
203 4 61.97 50 0 243 1 74.09 41 10
203 8 62.07 49 11 243 7 74.24 41 9
204 0 62.17 49 10 244 0 74.37 41 8
204 5 62.30 49 9 244 6 74.52 41 7
204 9 62.40 49 8 245 0 74.67 41 6
205 1 62.50 49 7 245 6 74.82 41 5
205 5 62.61 49 6 246 0 74.98 41 4
205 9 62.71 49 5 246 6 75.13 41 3
206 1 62.81 49 4 247 0 75.28 41 2
206 5 62.91 49 3 247 6 75.43 41 1
206 10 63.04 49 2 248 0 75.59 41 0
207 2 63.14 49 1 248 6 75.74 40 11
207 6 63.24 49 0 249 0 75.89 40 10
207 10 63.34 48 11 249 6 76.04 40 9
208 3 63.47 48 10 250 0 76.20 40 8
208 7 63.57 48 9 250 7 76.37 40 7
208 11 63.67 48 8 251 1 76.53 40 6
209 3 63.77 48 7 251 7 76.68 40 5
209 8 63.90 48 6 252 1 76.83 40 4
210 0 64.00 48 5 252 8 77.01 40 3
210 4 64.10 48 4 253 2 77.16 40 2
210 9 64.23 48 3 253 8 77.31 40 1
211 1 64.33 48 2 254 3 77.49 40 0
211 6 64.46 48 1
211 10 64.56 48 0
212 2 64.66 47 11 Circular No. 1/2001:
212 7 64.79 47 10 In line with the SCA policy to upgrade the Canal in service of world
212 11 64.89 47 9 navigation, and on the occasion of the near completion of the present
213 4 65.02 47 8 stage of development, the following has been decided:
213 8 65.12 47 7 First:
214 1 65.25 47 6 1. As of 5th June 2001, vessels with a beam of 169 ft. 6 in. can
214 5 65.35 47 5 transit the Canal with a draft of 60 ft. as experimental trips.
214 10 65.48 47 4 2. Vessels with a beam exceeding 169 ft. 6 in. can transit the Canal
215 2 65.58 47 3 with the drafts as shown in the above table, ‘‘Table II Amended’’.
215 7 65.70 47 2 Second:
216 0 65.83 47 1 1. As of 26th July 2001, vessels with a beam of 164 ft. can transit
216 4 65.93 47 0 the Canal with a draft of 62 ft.
216 9 66.06 46 11 2. Vessels with a beam exceeding 164 ft. can transit with drafts
217 1 66.16 46 10 shown in the above table, ‘‘Table II Amended’’.
217 6 66.29 46 9 Third:
217 11 66.42 46 8 1. Item (c) of Article 52 and Item (1) of Article 53 of the Suez Canal
218 3 66.52 46 7 Rules of Navigation (Feb’ 95) shall be waived.
218 8 66.64 46 6 2. Ballasted vessels with a beam up to 245 ft. can transit with a draft
219 1 66.77 46 5 of not more than 32 ft. forward and 36 ft. aft in favourable weather
219 5 66.87 46 4 conditions and a wind speed of not more than 10 knots.
219 10 67.00 46 3 3. Ballasted vessels with a beam exceeding 245 ft. need a prior
220 3 67.13 46 2 approval of the SCA to transit the Canal.
220 8 67.25 46 1 This Circular takes effect as of 5th June 2001.
221 1 67.38 46 0 Signed: Director of Transit.
221 5 67.48 45 11 Article 53: Conditions of Transit
221 10 67.61 45 10 (1) See Circular No. 1/2001 above.
222 3 67.74 45 9 (2) Vessels allowed to transit at a draft of over 50 ft. up to 56 ft. must, for
222 8 67.86 45 8 the first passage, effectuate a successful sea trial before entering the Canal
223 1 67.99 45 7 either at Suez or Port Said Roads.
223 6 68.12 45 6 (3) Sisterships are not to get benefit of authorisation granted to a particular
223 11 68.24 45 5 ship of the group.
224 4 68.37 45 4 (4) For safety measures, LPG, LNG in ballast or loaded, and loaded
224 9 68.50 45 3 dangerous chemicals in bulk are included in the Tanker Group and they are
225 1 68.60 45 2 placed ahead of the loaded tankers.
225 6 68.73 45 1 Article 54: Speed
226 0 68.88 45 0 Station Tanker’s Group Other Vessels
226 5 69.01 44 11 Port Tewfik – Genefa, head current 11 km./hr. 13 km./hr.
226 10 69.13 44 10 Port Tewfik – Genefa, stern current 14 km./hr. 15 km./hr.
227 3 69.26 44 9 Genefa – Kabret 14 km./hr. 15 km./hr.
227 8 69.39 44 8 Kabret – Deversoir 15 km./hr. 16 km./hr.
228 1 69.51 44 7
Deversoir – Port Said 14 km./hr. 15 km./hr.
228 6 69.64 44 6
228 11 69.77 44 5
229 4 69.90 44 4 SECTION III – Towage and Escorting
229 9 70.02 44 3 Article 55: Canal Authority Tugs
230 3 70.18 44 2 (I) At Port Said Harbour, tugs may be placed at the disposal of Masters if
230 8 70.30 44 1 the Canal Authority deems it necessary. No charge is made for the assistance
231 1 70.43 44 0 given by these tugs to transiting vessels for mooring and getting underway.
231 6 70.56 43 11 In all other cases, a charge is levied by the Suez Canal Authority.
232 0 70.71 43 10 Vessels manoeuvring in the harbour are required to provide their own
232 5 70.84 43 9 ropes. Wire tow-ropes are prohibited (Wire tow-ropes should not be confused
232 10 70.96 43 8 with the fire-wire ropes made fast onboard and fitted with an eye splice or
233 4 71.12 43 7 connecting shackle hanging over the side as required (See Article 19).
233 9 71.24 43 6 (2) In other cases, tugs can be hired for mooring, towing or getting a vessel
234 2 71.37 43 5 afloat. Charges paid by the vessel will be according to rates set by Suez
234 8 71.52 43 4 Canal Authority.
235 1 71.65 43 3 (3) In accordance with the terms of Article 57 of the present Chapter, the
235 7 71.80 43 2 Officials of the Canal Authority may impose on certain defective vessels, or
236 0 71.93 43 1 vessels carrying dangerous cargo, a tug or more for towing or escorting during
236 6 72.08 43 0 transit of the Canal.
236 11 72.21 42 11 In such cases, charges are paid according to rates set by Suez Canal
237 5 72.36 42 10 Authority.
(4) The Master of a vessel using a tug placed at his disposal has the Vessels stopped accidentally at night, must in addition, immediately replace
exclusive direction and control of the manoeuvres of both the vessel and the their white light astern with a red light.
tug. (2) In case of grounding, the Master must immediately hoist the following:
(5) Whatever may be the conditions or circumstances under which the By Day By Night
Canal Authority tugs are made use of by a vessel, the Master of the vessel Passage clear for tugs Black Ball Red Light
is responsible for any damage or accidents whatsoever resulting directly or Pendant No. 2
indirectly from the use of the said tugs, including damage which may occur Passage not clear for tugs Black Ball; Pendant 2 Red Lights.
to the tugs themselves, and to equipment. No. 2; International
Article 56: Use of Private Tugs Code Flag ‘‘N’’.
(1) In case the SCA tugs are not available, shipping companies will be The Master must also send also a radio message stating whether a tug is
allowed to tow their ‘‘towed units’’ by tugs to be provided by them. Such tugs required or not, whether or not passage is clear for the tug and whether
must be approved by the Suez Canal Authority, prior to transit. lightening is necessary, etc.
(2) Apart from the special towage dues, tugs belonging to private owners (3) When a vessel runs aground, the Canal Authority Officials are alone
are subject to the strict observance of all the parts of the rules relative to empowered to order and direct all operations required to get the vessel afloat
vessels manoeuvring, in transit or berthing. and if necessary, have her unloaded and towed. Neverthless, Masters remain
(3) Towing arrangement must be supervised and approved by the Suez responsible for all damages or accidents of any kind which may be the direct
Canal Authority personnel. or indirect consequence of the grounding.
Article 57: Cases of Imposed Tugs (4) All attempts on the part of other vessels to refloat a vessel aground
Chargeable tugs shall be imposed during Canal transit, at the tariff hire are strictly prohibited.
rate, in the following cases: (5) When a vessel stops in the Canal itself in consequence of an accident
(1) The Canal Authority may require any vessel to take a tug or tugs other than a collision, engine, auxiliary and steering gear troubles, the Canal
through the Canal, when in its judgement such action is necessary to ensure Authority, in order to clear the way with all possible speed, and to get her
safety to the vessel or to the Canal. underway, will assist with the necessary tugs to refloat her, free of charge.
(2) Any vessel without mechanical power, or the machinery of which is (or (6) If, once afloat, and the Canal Officials find it necessary to tow or escort
becomes) disabled, or steers badly, or which is liable to become the vessel by one tug or more, she must from that moment, pay towage
unmanageable for any reason, shall be towed through the Canal. charges as set down by Suez Canal Authority, moreover, it is understood
(3) Vessels having engine or steering gear trouble for the second time that the vessel bears all expenses necessary for repairs of any damage or
during the same passage. breakdown which might interfere with her getting underway, regardless of
(4) Bad view vessels owing to deck cargo, containers, cranes or the time when such damage or breakdown takes place.
constructions impeding the view from the wheelhouse and wings. (7) When a vessel grounds or stops outside the Canal itself or if the
(5) (a) Vessels unable to use one or both of their bow anchors (ref Art. 23). grounding or stoppage is due to a collision, all charges for getting the vessel
(b) Vessels over 1,500 SCGT, built with one anchor. afloat, towing, unloading, etc., are payable by the vessel and must be settled
(c) Vessels over 1,500 SCGT, built with more than one anchor, if only one as per statement drawn up by the Canal Authority before the vessel leaves
of them on the bow. Port Said or Port of Suez.
(6) Drilling vessels. (8) Whenever a collision appears probable, vessels must not hesitate to
(7) Vessels with two engines on one propeller of which one is out of order run aground should this be necessary to avoid it.
for any reason and cannot maintain speed of 10 knots at least without current (9) When a vessel or floating structure of any description runs aground or
after sea trial to assure the speed and valid Sea Worthiness Certificate. strands or sinks or is left abandoned, either in the Canal itself or in one of
(8) Vessels with two engines on two propellers of which one is out of order. its ports, Waiting or Anchorage Areas, and the Canal Authority deems it an
(9) On Master’s request for one tug or more. obstruction or a menace to navigation in Canal Waters, the Authority has the
Article 58: Escorting right to take of its own accord such action as may be necessary for the
The escort of VLCCs, ULCCs, LPG, LNG, large bulk carriers and other purpose of removing or destroying the vessel or floating structure by whatever
vessels (See ‘‘Notes’’ below) will be as follows: means the Canal Authority may select and at the risk and expense of the
Notes: (a) Loaded heavy lift ships are to be escorted by one or more tugs Owner of, or the person responsible for the vessel or the floating structure.
according to decision of S.C.A. after survey. The Suez Canal Authority has – in this case – the right to sell the vessel
(b) Integrated units are escorted by one tug on their first transit. or the floating structure or the wreck salvaged or all of them together in public
(1) Loaded vessels less than 70,000 S.C.N.T. will be escorted by 1 tug, if auctions with a view to covering all kinds of expenses.
for technical reasons, the Suez Canal Authority finds it necessary, or when Article 60: Leaks
the vessel’s draft is more than 47 ft. (1) In the case of leaks, when the ship in approaching channel, sea waiting
(2) Loaded vessels from 70,000 S.C.N.T. to 90,000 S.C.N.T. will be area and harbour, the Master must inform the Harbour Office at once.
escorted by one tug. (2) When in Canal or anchored in lakes, he must inform immediately the
(3) Loaded vessels over 90,000 S.C.N.T. will be escorted by 2 tugs. Movement Office. He must at the same time make the appropriate
(4) Vessels in ballast over 130,000 S.C.N.T. will be escorted by one tug. International Signal and call attention by sounding a prolonged blast on the
(5) LPG and LNG vessels over 25,000 S.C.N.T. (except gas free)* will be whistle or siren; and take all necessary measures to stop the leakage and
escorted by one tug†. ensure the safety of the vessel and environment.
* (a) LPG, LNG vessels contain (tank on deck) completely separated from (3) The Suez Canal Authority Officials whose decision shall be final, may
cargo tank with maximum tonnage of 180 tons will be considered gas free; order any action deemed necessary in the best interest of all concerned;
and change of berth or mooring, beaching, taking the vessel out to sea.
(b) Gas free carriers are to be treated as tankers in ballast; (4) The Master, the Owners and/or operators of the vessel is nevertheless
† Masters are kindly requested to maintain safety intervals, subject not to be responsible for all damages or accidents arising directly or indirectly from the
less than 20 minutes, not more than 25 minutes for such vessels. salvage operations.
(6) Vessels in ballast with beam over 218 ft. up to 233 ft. will be escorted (5) The Master, the Owner and/or operators of vessel shall be liable to
by one tug. indemnify any damage that may occur from pollution directly or indirectly to
(7) Vessels in ballast with beam over 233 ft. will be escorted by two tugs. the environment and shall pay all expenses incurred for its removal, cleaning
(8) Towed scrapped vessels in ballast 80,000 S.C.N.T. and over will be costs and all costs and compensation for any damage to the environment.
escorted by one tug. Article 61: Firefighting
Note (1): Reference to Article 57 and Article 58: (1) Vessels transiting the Canal should be equipped with the firefighting
(1) Any vessel escorted by one tug and the situation requires another equipment in accordance with the requirements of SOLAS. All equipment
imposed tug, same tug is considered imposed needless for a second tug. should be in a good and efficient condition.
(2) Any vessel escorted by 2 tugs and the situation requires a third imposed (2) Fire hoses with suitable nozzles attached shall be connected to the
tug, one of the 2 escorting tugs will be for escort and the second is imposed outlets of fire lines at all times while in Canal Waters. Sufficient hoses shall
needless for a third tug. be connected to reach all parts of the vessel.
Note (2): The prementioned vessels in Article 57 and Article 58 have to (3) Approaching Canal Waters, as precautionary measures, all vessels
prepare 2 polypropylene ropes 16 in. circumference (For vessels under must have a fire wire hanging over the side ready for use fore and aft, before
100,000 d.w.t., if their draft is over 47 ft.) to join the stern to the tug during entering Canal Waters.
stopping operations. Article 62: Fire Onboard
The ropes should be eye spliced to fit in the quick release hook on the (1) In case of fire onboard, when in harbour, the Master must inform the
tug and with adequate length to give distance between fore of the tug and Harbour Office at once.
stern of vessel at about 50 m. (2) When underway or in the Canal or anchored in Lakes or made fast in
On the vessels, these ropes will be made fast on stern bitts port and Canal, he must inform the Movement Office.
starboard. The eyes will be hanging over the stern about 2 m. above water He must at the same time make the appropriate International Signal and
and lashed with rope stoppers to break loose when necessary. call attention by sounding a prolonged blast on the whistle or siren. Also, he
Responsibility in cases mentioned above: Either imposed or escorted tug, must make ready to get underway if required to do so.
the Master is responsible for any damage that may happen to Suez Canal (3) Neighbouring vessels must in such cases also be ready to change
tugs, directly or indirectly during the voyage, whatever the reasons of the berth.
damage may be. (4) Masters are responsible for the use onboard their vessels of fire fighting
Note (3): appliances and installations and for the stability and safety of their vessel.
First: Escorting the ships transiting the Suez Canal effectuated (5) The Suez Canal Officials will co-operate with the Master for the purpose
according to the SC net tonnage and not the Summer of directing the fire fighting operations.
deadweight. (6) If in the opinion of the Canal Authority Officials, whose decision shall
Second: The SC net tonnage is assessed regardless of sizes that are be final – there is a risk of fire spreading, they may order any action deemed
temporarily added in each transit (such as double bottom tanks necessary in the best interest of all concerned (change of mooring, beaching,
or containers on deck, etc.). taking vessel out to sea); it is understood that Masters are nevertheless
responsible for all damage or accidents arising directly or indirectly from
outbreaks of fire or salvage operations.
CHAPTER IV – ACCIDENTS AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AGAINST Article 63: Fuelling
FIRE AND POLLUTION (1) A vessel at fuel berth, or while being supplied by fuel in Waiting Areas,
Article 59: Accidents shall at all times be ready for immediate fire fighting. She shall keep up steam
(1) Whenever a vessel underway is accidently stopped, she must, if other and be ready to move on short notice.
vessels are following, attract their attention by giving 5 or 6 short blasts on (2) The Master, the owners and/or operators of the vessel shall be liable
the whistle or siren. This signal is to be repeated at short intervals. It means to indemnify any damage that may occur from pollution during fuelling
‘‘I am reducing speed and may have to stop and make fast’’. operations.
Article 64: Pollution is leaking, the Master of the vessel has to notify the Suez Canal Port Authority
(A) Discharge of Substances Polluting Waters at once. In cases of dangerous situations, the vessel may be ordered to leave
Vessels must not discharge or throw into the Canal Waters any polluted the port or waiting area for sea.
water ballast, heavy slops, engine or fire room polluted bilge water, oil or any Article 78: Declaration of State of Navigability
other substances that will cause pollution. The Master shall hand in duly filled and signed, the declaration of State
The Egyptian Environmental Protection Act No. 4, 1994, prohibits the of Navigability. The form will be handed to him by the pilot on his arrival on
discharge of any polluting substances into waters. The Provisions of this Act board.
will apply for any discharge of polluting substances. DECLARATION FORM
(B) Oil Pollution Notification I, the undersigned, Master of the . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Whenever a vessel observes an oil slick or oil mixture discharge in the (1) Certify that my ship satisfies the conditions laid down in Part I, Articles
sea waiting areas, approach channels, Port Said Harbour, Canal Waters and 18 and 45 of the Navigation Regulations and that, in particular, the engines
anchorage areas in the lakes, she must at once inform the Suez Canal and the steering gear are in good working order.
Authority with the following information if possible. (2) Declare that my ship has, at the present time, the following defects in
1) The time of observation. engines or steering gear.........
2) The location and place and area covered by the slick. (3) I declare, also, that the wireless installations of my ship permit to
3) The directions of movement of the slick. transmit on the frequencies hereafter, in kHz:
4) The approximate oil thickness, if possible. Telegraphy...............kHz. Telephony...............kHz.
5) If known, the name of vessel causing the slick. (4) I state also that my ship is/is not fitted with a rudder angle indicator
6) The meteorological and oceanagraphic conditions, if possible. and engine r.p.m. indicator on the bridge in such a position that the Pilot may
7) Any other information. read both without having to move away from his station and that the rudder
angle indicator/engine r.p.m. indicator* is/are in good working condition.
CHAPTER V – PROHIBITIONS, DEFECTS AND CHARGES I undertake to bring to the notice of the Suez Canal Authority, before my
General: ship enters the Canal, any defects, not specified above, which may appear.
When a vessel is in Canal Waters, either in anchorage areas or ports or Made at Port...................., the........................
during transit, the following is prohibited: Signature........................
Article 65: Use of Anchors, Thrusters, Gyropilot, Whistle or Siren * Delete where inapplicable.
(1) Masters must avoid anchoring and using the thrusters in the Canal, APPENDIX:
except in case of absolute necessity.
(2) The use of Gyropilot (automatic steering) in the Canal is absolutely Transit of:
forbidden. A. Drilling Rigs.
(3) Vessel unable to use both anchors is prohibited to transit Canal on B. Heavy Lift Ships carrying Drillers, floating units or large units.
her own power. She may transit as a towed unit after survey (See C. Vessels carrying Floating Units.
‘‘Appendix’’). D. Navy Ships.
(4) The sounding of a whistle or siren is prohibited, except for giving any E. Integrated Units.
authorised or required signal, as mentioned in Part III, Article 92. F. Towed Units.
Article 66: Firing Shots G. Special Requests.
(1) Firing shots is not allowed. (A) Drilling Rigs ‘‘They Consist Of’’:
(2) An additional due of U.S.$300.00 will be imposed for violation of this (1) Drilling vessels: To be convoyed by a Suez Canal tug.
rule. (2) Drilling rigs:
Article 67: Picking up Objects from Water (a) Self-steering or non self-steering.
(1) Whenever any object or merchandise whatsoever falls overboard, it (b) Legs that can be lifted: No extensions under the rig’s keel.
must be immediately reported to the Canal Authority. If it is considered that To be assisted by Suez Canal tugs:
the picking up cannot be effected by the vessel without impeding transit, the One aft and another – or more – as escort. In addition, a powerful tug
Canal Authority will proceed to carry it out, at the expense of the vessel. forward to maintain a minimum speed of 12 km./hr.over the ground. The
(2) An additional due of U.S.$300.00 will be imposed for violation of this rigs must be in stable condition.
rule. (c) Legs that cannot be lifted and a part remains under the rig’s
Article 68: Riveting, Welding, etc. keel:
(1) Riveting, welding, burning, metal cutting or similar operations requiring Each case is to be studied separately to decide whether or not the unit
the use of heat, are not allowed unless authorised by the Suez Canal is allowed to transit the Canal.
Authority. (B) Heavy Lift Ships carrying Drillers, Floating Units or large
(2) An additional due of U.S.$750.00 will be imposed for violation of this Units*, are submitted to the following conditions:
rule. (1) Be able if needed, to reduce, easily and safely, the draft by
Article 69: Pollution 1.0 m. (3 ft. 03 in.) by way of discharging clean ballast water.
(1) See Article 64. (2) Be escorted by one or more tugs according to the decision of the
(2) In case of leakage of any polluting material from a vessel, due to any Suez Canal Representatives, after survey on arrival (6,600 SDR. per
reason, the Master, the Owners and/or Operators of the vessel shall be liable tug).
to indemnify any damage that may occur from the pollution directly or (3) The following additional dues are levied to cover special
indirectly to the environment and shall pay all expenses incurred for its precautionary measures for the safety of navigation and vessels:
removal and all compensations. Moreover, she shall pay for all claims (a) 125% of the transit dues and in addition,
regarding cleaning costs and all environmental economic losses caused by (b) 2% of the transit dues, for each foot, or fraction of a foot in
the pollution. excess of the maximum breadth prescribed by Article 26.
Article 70: Direct Lights * ‘‘Large Units’’ refer to any one block unit of 250 metric tonnes or more
Under no circumstances shall the rays of any blinding lights be directed carried by heavy lift ships whether individually or as part of the whole
to the bridge or any other direction which would interfere with the safe cargo.
navigation of other vessels. (C) Self Steering Vessels carrying Floating Units:*
(1) Vessels carrying onboard floating units must within an adequate
Article 71: Embarking and Disembarking of Persons period, before vessels transit introduce the following documents of their
(1) Unless authorised by the Canal Authority or Port Officials, no person floating units:
shall embark or disembark from a vessel while passing through the Canal (a) S.C.T. Certificate and calculation sheets.
or in Ballah, Timsah Lake or the Bitter Lakes. (b) Recommended plans.
(2) An additional due of U.S.$300.00 will be imposed for violation of this (c) A detailed statement of the floating units loaded onboard.
rule. (d) Cargo weight statement specifying its location on board and the
Article 72: Boats, other than the Canal Authority’s own way of its loading as per cargo manifest.
Not allowed to come alongside vessels underway or manoeuvring except the (2) In case of absence of the prementioned documents in Para. (1),
following at their own risk. the gross tonnage will be calculated according to Linear dimensions,
(1) Quarantine and police boats. length, beam and depth.
(2) Mooring boats. (3) Self steering vessels carrying onboard floating units of 300 tons
(3) The ship’s Agent’s boats. or more S.C.G.T. are subject to the following additional dues:
Article 73: Vessel Overtaking Another (a) 300% of transit dues of the floating units S.C.G.T.
(1) Vessels proceeding in the same direction are not allowed to overtake (b) 2% of transit dues for each foot or fraction of a foot in excess
one another while underway in the Canal Waters and ports unless authorised of the maximum breadth authorised by Article 26.
by the Suez Canal Control Office. (4) Such vessels will be able to join the 2nd Southbound Convoy if
(2) An additional due of U.S.$750.00 will be imposed for violation of this their dimensions allow.
rule. * Valid Lashing Certificate is required.
Article 74: Boat Drills (D) Navy Ships:
(1) No boat drills are allowed except after authorisation. Navy and auxiliary ships belonging to different countries, an addition
(2) An additional due of U.S.$300.00 will be imposed for violation of this of 25% of transit dues is to be added owing to special arrangements.
rule. (E) Integrated Units:
Article 75: Venting* Integrated units may transit Suez Canal and berth in its harbours on
(Tank openings to be closed through the whole transit). the following conditions:
(1) Venting of toxic and explosive gases is prohibited in Canal Waters. (1) A valid Seaworthiness Certificate issued by one of the I.A.C.S.
(2) An additional due of U.S.$ 20,000 will be imposed for violation of this recognised by the Suez Canal Authority.
rule. (2) Additional dues of 25% of the transit dues will be charged.
* All tank opening should be closed through the whole transit. (3) Vessels to be escorted by a Suez Canal tug, on the first transit
Article 76: Long Stay (experimental) against 6,600 SDR.
Unless due to conditions of traffic or incidents in the Canal, transiting (4) If unable to maintain convoy’s speed, additional dues for slow
vessels should not remain more than 24 hours in Port Said berths, speed vessels are applied.
anchorages in Port Said and Port of Suez roads, Timsah Lake or Bitter Lakes. (5) If the integrated tug is disconnected and the unit towed by normal
Article 77: Vessels Having Damaged Container With Dangerous Cargo tugs, this unit will be considered as towed vessel and dues for towed
vessels will be applied.
If upon arrival of a vessel in waiting areas or port or while transiting the (6) In Harbours: Berthing, loading and discharging operations are
Canal, it is found that a container of dangerous cargo has been damaged or possible, after getting Harbour Authority authorisation.
(F) Towed Units: (4) Width of channel at ␤19.00 m. depth, South of Km. 61.000 (side
(1) All enquiries concerning the possibility and/or approval of transit slopes 3/1) ␦ 177 m. – 192 m.
of towed units, drilling rigs, dredgers, etc., are to be submitted by the (5) At the ends of two bends, there is usually a funnel made to allow
owners of the units or their officially recognised representatives in Egypt increasing the width of the straight part to the width of the curves
or one of the Suez Shipping Agency Companies accompanied by a (at 11.00 m. depth).
General Arrangement Plan and all particulars of the unit: Name, LOA, (6) Locations of beginning and end of each bend are included in the
beam, draft, height, self-steering, etc. The application must reach Suez following table:
Canal Authority (Transit Department, Ismailia, Egypt) not less than Note: At the approaches of the by-passes, bends are made with radius
2 weeks before the sailing of the unit from its base.
more than 5,000 m.
(2) Towed units are not allowed to transit the Suez Canal, unless they
Canal Kilometric indication Kilometric indication
are towed by a tug suitable to the size of the unit, and powerful enough
Bends of beginning point of end point
to maintain a speed in the Canal not less than 12 km./hr. over the ground,
in addition to the assisting Suez Canal tugs, whenever found necessary
Km. 51 Km. 49.510 Km. 51.480 West
by Suez Canal Officials. Km. 51.790 East
(3) Any towed unit must be supplied with floating mooring ropes in Km. 53 Km. 52.050 Km. 53.520
Km. 57 Km. 56.870 Km. 58.800
冎
good condition, and suitable in number (more than six) and size
according to the dimensions of the unit. Km. 61 Km. 60.310 W.
(4) A responsible person and a crew of at least 10 persons must be Km. 59.940 E. Km. 63.300
on board the unit during the transit.
(5) A valid Seaworthiness Certificate for the towage through the Suez ‘‘S’’ Curves Km. 71.960 Km. 75.300
Canal must be available. Timsah Curve Km. 76.520 Km. 81.700 East
(6) The unit must comply with the Suez Canal Regulations. Km. 85 Km. 85.030 Km. 87.400
Km. 103 Km. 102.600 Km. 105.030
冎
(7) A survey of the unit shall be made on the arrival, in order to take
the definite steps, and make the final arrangements for the transit, if it Km. 122 Km. 121.940 E. Km. 125.510
complies with the Suez Canal Authority Rules. Km. 122.500 W.
(8) The transit is subject to the circumstances of the Navigation in Km. 130 Km. 129.500 Km. 131.980
the Canal, and the weather conditions. Km. 146 Km. 145.500 Km. 146.330
Km. 154 Km. 154.700 Km. 155.720
(G) Special Requests: Km. 157 Km. 156.280 Km. 160.000
Owing to the request of owners for the transit of vessels with beam
over 245 ft., the Suez Canal Authority undertook careful studies to (E) By-Passes and Loops
comply with the said request. (1) Port Said By-Pass (See ‘‘Plan’’).
In this connection above mentioned, vessels may transit the Canal A by-pass is dredged East of Port Fouad starting at Km. 17.000 and
under the following conditions: extending straight to join the existing Port Said Roadstead at Hm. 94.90 and
(1) A pre-approval to be obtained in good time prior to transit. continuing until Hm. 195. This channel (By-Pass) will be used for the exit of
(2) Transit to be effectuated in good weather (wind not exceeding Northbound ships, the entry of VLCCs in ballast, 4th Generation Container
10 knots). Ships and 3rd Generation Container Ships, LASH ships over
(3) One escorting tug against 6,600 SDR. for vessels with beam up 35,000 S.C.G.T., LPG, LNG tankers, and vessels with draft over 42 ft. coming
to 233 ft. from North.
(5) Two escorting tugs against 6,600 SDR. per tug for vessels with Characteristics and dimensions: The kilometric marks are followed by letter
beam over 233 ft. ‘‘E’’ to distinguish them from those of the West branch. The inland part (from
Km. 1.500 E. to Km. 15.465 E.) width (at 19 m. depth) is 146 m. with side
slopes 4/1 and theoretical depth 20.5 m., fitted with bollards on the Western
side, spaced every 100 m.
PART II – CANAL AND LAKES The seaward part (from Km. 1.000 E. to Hm. 94.90 E.) with width
(at ␤21 m. depth) ranging from 130 m. at Km. 1.000 E. to 400 m. at
CHAPTER I – CANAL AND LAKES Hm. 80.00 E. with natural side slopes (average 5/1 – 15/1).
Article 79: Canal and Approaches Two revolving lights, one on each bank to indicate the entrance of Canal
(A) Length of the Navigable Channel from East Approach Channel at Km. 2.738 E.
(1) East Approach Channel (Port Said). (2) Ballah Loop (See ‘‘Plan’’).
(a) Distance from outer pair of buoys (East Branch) at Hm. 195 to Hm. Between Km. 51 and 61 the Canal is doubled in the East, by a branch.
94.90 where it joins the West Approach Channel is 10.010 km. The zone comprising the 2 branches of the Canal limited by the North and
(b) Distance from Hm. 94.90 to the pair of revolving lights at Km. 2.738 E South ends where the 2 branches meet, is called ‘‘Ballah Loop’’.
is 12.228 km. In the East Branch the kilometric marks are followed by letter ‘‘E’’. The
(2) West Approach Channel (Port Said). length of the East Branch is 8.490 km.
(a) Distance from Fairway Buoy to Port Said Lighthouse is 11.040 km. West Branch East Branch
(bearing 017␥). Kilometric marking of North end 51.477 51.449 E.
(b) Distance from Port Said Lighthouse (Km. 0.000) or (Km. 3 East Kilometric marking of South end 60.333 59.943 E.
Branch) to Ismailia is 78.5 km.
(c) Distance from Ismailia to Port Tewfik (Km. 162.250) is 83.750 km. Slope of bank 4/1.
(d) Distance from Port Tewfik (Km. 162.250) (HM.000) to the outer pair In the West branch 15 mooring posts are situated on the Eastern bank
of buoys Hm. 80.50 is 8.500 km. and numbered South to North.
(e) Total length of the navigable channel is 192.548 km. (3) Timsah By-Pass (See ‘‘Plan’’).
(B) Characteristics of the Navigable Channel (Canal and Approaches) Between Km. 76.580 and Km. 81.700 E.
Characteristics and dimensions:
(1) North Approaches The kilometric marks are followed by letter ‘‘E’’. Length: 5.110 km. counted
(a) Port Said East Approach Channel from Hm. 195 to Km. 1.000 East. at right angle from Km. 76.578 to Km. 81.700. Width: 182 m. at a depth of
(i) Depth of water 21.00 m. 19 m. Slope: The side slope is 3/1. The radius of its axis is 4905 m. The
(ii) Channel width measured at 21 m. depth: by-pass will be used by North and Southbound vessels.
(4) Deversoir By-Pass (See ‘‘Plan’’).
HM. 195 745 m. A new branch is dredged East of the existing channel at Deversoir zone.
HM. 80.00 E 400 m. This branch begins at Km. 95.000 and joins the main East Channel in the
HM. 1.000 E 130 m. Great Bitter Lake at Km. 104.160. The branch will be used by Northbound
(iii) Side Slopes vessels.
Natural land side slopes, ranging from 5/1 near shore to about 15/1 in Dimensions: Width: 142 m. at 19 m. depth. Depths: 20.500 m. from Km.
the off-shore part. 95.000 to Km. 100.670; 20.00 m. from Km. 100.670 to Km. 102.600;
(b) Port Said West Approach Channel from Hm. 95.00 to Port Said 19.500 m. from Km. 102.600 to Km. 104.160. Side slope: 3/1.
(i) Depth of water 16.50 m. (5) Kabrit By-Pass (See ‘‘Plan’’).
(ii) Channel width measured at 16.50 m. depth: The By-Pass is situated to the East of the main Canal. It begins at Km.
HM. 80.00 520 m. 114.957 and ends at Km. 122.100. It is 250 m. – 152 m. wide at a depth of
HM. 25.00 230 m. 19 m., the bank slope is 3/1. The By-Pass is separated from the West Branch
by a submerged island at a depth between 2 m. and 6 m. The width of the
(2) Canal Cross Sections (See Plan) island varies between 200 m. in the North and 66 m. in the South. Some
(a) The Canal cross sections are trapezoidal in shape, having side slopes mooring bollards have been installed on the submerged island to be used in
of 4/1 in the Northern part up to Km. 61.00 and of 3/1 in the Southern part. case of emergency. The two extremities of the submerged island are marked
Toussoum Zone is the only place where the Western slopes are 2.5/1. at Km. 115.025 and 122.150 by a light buoy painted horizontally black and
(b) Tables of main dimensions of cross sections all through the Canal yellow and showing a flashing white light. The by-pass (East Channel) is to
(See ‘‘ (b) Tables of main dimensions of cross sections all through be used by Northbound vessels. Southbound vessels use the West Channel.
the Canal (See ‘‘Plan – Canal Characteristics Table’’).
(c) Both sides of the Canal are provided with mooring bollards. Article 80: Lakes
(3) South Approach from Hm. 0.00 (Km. 162.250) to Hm. 80.50 (A) Lake Timsah (See ‘‘Plan’’).
(a) Depth of water 23.50 m. Lake Timsah extends from Km. 76.500 to Km. 80.520. In the presence of
(b) Channel width measured at 19 m. depth, Hm. 0.000 to Hm. the new Timsah By-Pass, Lake Timsah will be used mainly as an anchorage
80.50 is 292.00 m. area.
(c) Side slopes 3/1. (B) Great Bitter Lake (See ‘‘Plan’’).
(C) Depth and Width of Different Parts of the Canal There are 2 dredged channels in the Great Bitter Lake. The East is the
See ‘‘Plan – Canal Characteristics Table’’. main channel about 358 m. wide at 19.00 m. depth and dredged to 19.50 m.
(D) Bends in the Canal for Northbound vessels. The West Channel 232 m. wide at 14.00 m. and
The bends in the navigable channel have the following characteristics: dredged to 14.50 m. depth for Southbound vessels.
(1) Radius of navigation line ␦ 5,000 m. These channels divide the Great Bitter Lake into two anchorage areas,
(2) Width of channel at ␤11.00 m., depth ␦ 225 m. – 242 m. one to the East for Northbound convoy, and the other to the West for
(3) Width of channel at ␤19.00 m. depth, North of Km. 61.000 (side Southbound convoy (See B.A. Chart No.233).
slopes 4/1) ␦ 176 m. Each convoy is to keep strictly to its assigned channel.
Article 81: Floating Bridges Article 85: Weather Forecast
The fixed parts of floating bridges are outside the line of navigational buoys. Six meteorological stations are installed on the Canal area. Information
The bridges may be rigged day or night. Position of floating bridges – about local weather will be passed to vessels through Pilots, Ismailia Radio
Km. 88.200, Km. 67.550 and Km. 47.200. Station.
CHAPTER II – BUOYAGE SYSTEM IN THE CANAL

Article 82: Buoyage PART III – COMMUNICATIONS AND SIGNALS
The navigable channel is marked by pairs of light buoys. On the East side
green buoys showing Green lights. On the West side Red buoys showing CHAPTER I – RADIO COMMUNICATIONS
Red lights. Article 86: Wireless and Inmarsat Service
In the straight parts, the distance between each pair is 1.5 km. in the North (1) General: Vessels must have their W/T and/or Radio Telephony
Section, and 1.0 km. in the South Section. In the curves the distances will apparatus in good working order before entering the Canal.
be less than 1.0 km. All buoys in the Canal and its approaches are fitted with They must also be fitted with a VHF set easily operated from the bridge.
radar reflector. It will have the working frequency range of the marine band (156 to 174 MHz),
Article 83: Position and Characteristics of Buoys in the Suez Canal See especially Channels 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 71, 73 and 74.
‘‘Plan’’. If not, they will rent one from the Suez Canal Authority for the transit.
(2) SCA Marine Communication Centre (SUQ): Suez Canal Wireless
CHAPTER III – NATURAL CONDITIONS Station SUQ (Marine Communication Centre) has different communication
Article 84: Tides and Currents in Suez Canal facilities to contact vessels in the open sea or approaching areas and while
The Suez Canal is divided in three main sectors according to the nature transiting the Canal.
of tide in each. All these communication facilities are in compliance with the latest GMDSS
The characteristics of each can be summarised as follows: Regulations:
(A) The Northern Sector I – Radio Telex:
This part is located between Port Said and the Great Bitter Lake. (a) Frequency allocated to contact with vessels by Radio Telex from open
(1) The height of tide at Port Said co-oscillates with the tides of the sea to inform Suez Canal Authority of their expected time of arrival
Mediterranean sea with 0.50 m. extreme tidal range (difference between (ETA) to Port Said or Port Tewfik harbours.
highest and lowest levels) at Spring tides. This tidal range decreases ID No. 4820 / Hours of service: 24 hours.
gradually going South, to be about 0.20 m. at the entrance of Lake Timsah. Transmits Receives Mode Watch hours
(2) In this sector, the peak tidal current may reach 1.0 knot (in case of no 4250 6310 FIB H 24
wind). 4205
(3) Currents can be doubled by strong prevailing winds.
(4) Peak currents occur about 50 minutes after predicted HW and LW at Vessels are requested to send the following data 48 hours and 24 hours
Port Said. before arrival and when arriving in the approaches:
(5) The duration and velocity of currents in this sector are greatly affected 1. Vessel’s name.
by the relative mean sea levels between the Mediterranean sea, the Bitter 2. Call sign.
Lakes and the Red Sea as follows: 3. SCID.
(a) In Summer: Between July and October, the mean sea level at Port 4. ETA.
Said is slightly higher than that of the Bitter Lakes. This difference (which 5. Draft.
reaches its maximum about 0.20 m. in September), due to the great 6. SCGT.
evaporation at the Bitter Lakes, causes the predominance of the Southward 7. Cargo.
current in duration and velocity. 8. Dangerous Cargo and Flash Point.
(b) In Winter: Between December and May, the mean sea level at the 9. Origin.
Bitter Lakes is slightly higher than that of Port Said. This difference which 10. Destination.
reaches its maximum of about 0.30 m. in January, causes the predominance 11. Agent’s name.
of the Northward current in duration and velocity. (b) Frequencies allocated to contact vessels by Radio Telex while transiting
(B) The Lakes (Timsah and Bitter Lakes) Suez Canal or from waiting areas.
(1) The Lakes along the Canal have an important role in dampening the ID No. 4820 / Hours of service: 24 hours.
effects of sudden meteorological changes.
Transmits Receives Channel Mode Watch hours
(2) The Bitter Lakes with a surface of about 250 sq.km. reduce the vertical
1612 2147 211 FIB 24
movement of the tide to a minimum between Km. 100 and Km. 130.
(3) The high Spring tidal range (MHWS) in the Great Bitter Lake may reach R/T and broadcast facilities are available on the same frequencies.
0.25 m.
II – W/T Morse:
(4) The phase of the vertical tide in the Great Bitter Lake is about 3 hours
W/T Morse will continue to contact vessels transiting the Canal and from
later than that of Port Tewfik.
waiting areas:
(5) The vertical tide in Lake Timsah is almost in phase with the tide in the
W/T (MF) Hours of service: 24 hours.
Great Bitter Lake. Call sign Transmits Receives Channel Mode Watch hours
(C) The Southern Region SUQ 520.5 469.5 and 109 A1A-A2A H 24
This part is located between Port of Suez and the Bitter Lakes. 454
(1) The height of tide at Suez co-oscillates with the tides of the Red Sea
with extreme tidal range of about 1.90 m. at Spring tides. This range III – Inmarsat Communication:
decreases gradually going North till the Bitter Lakes entrance where it is Vessels having on board Inmarsat station to contact Suez Canal Authority
0.15 m. at Genefa. (SES) at Suez Canal Marine Communication Centre SUQ to send their ETA
(2) The tidal volume of the Bitter Lakes is very large compared to the tidal 48 hours and 24 hours before arrival and when arriving in the approaches.
volume of the Southern section. Consequently the currents are relatively The Suez Canal Authority (SES) identification numbers (ID) are as follows:
strong and almost uniform between Port Tewfik and Genefa. (a) Telex: 581-1622570.
(3) In this region the Northward current is called Flood and the Southward (b) Voice: 871-1622570.
current is called Ebb. (c) Fax: 871-1622574.
(4) Peak currents about 50 minutes after predicted HW and LW at Port Answerback: Suez.
Tewfik. IV – International Land Telex and Fax:
(5) At the entrance of the Canal, Km. 159, the Flood tide starts at an Suez Canal Marine Communication Centre SUQ has international Telex
average of 3 hours after the LW at Suez. The Ebb tide 3 hours after HW in No. 63528 SUQ SC UN.
Suez. Also international Fax No. 002-064-393517.
(6) Generally in Summer, the duration of the Ebb exceeds the average of V – Weather Reports:
6 hours. In Winter, the Flood is the predominant. The Ebb is prolonged by SUQ broadcasts daily weather reports and navigational warnings (if exist)
‘‘Strong Northerly Winds’’. The Flood is prolonged by ‘‘Strong Southerly to vessels transiting the Canal or in the approaches.
Winds’’. Article 87: VHF – UHF Radiotelephony
(7) In this region the average peak current is about 1.5 knots. In Spring (A) VHF Radiotelephony for Vessels from Sea:
tides, current may reach 2.5 knots. (1) At Port Said
(8) The change of current occurs 5 to 10 minutes later on the bottom of (a) Port Management (listening): Call Sign: ‘‘Port Said 16’’ (HP-1)
the Canal, than on its surface. 156.800 MHz.
(D) Current Buoys (b) Pilot Vessel and Radar Guidance:
In the Canal, there are current buoys indicating the direction of the current: (i) Outside the Harbour: Call Sign: ‘‘Port Said 12’’ (HP-2)
Head Current: Red and white horizontal bands or 1 reflector at night. 156.600 MHz. (i) Outside the Harbour: Call Sign: ‘‘Port Said 12’’
Stern Current: Black and white vertical stripes or 2 reflectors at night. (HP-2) 156.600 MHz.
These buoys are laid in the following positions: (ii) Inside the Harbour: Call Sign: ‘‘Port Said 13’’ (HP-3)
El Raswa Km. 3.710 East 156.650 MHz.
Port Fouad Km. 2.750 East (c) Admeasurement Office: Call Sign: ‘‘Port Said 73’’ (M) 156.675 MHz.
Ras El Ech (E) Km. 12.800 East (2) At Port of Suez
Ras El Ech (W) Km. 14.304 East (a) Port Management (listening): Call Sign: ‘‘Suez 16’’ (HP-1)
Tineh Km. 24.775 East 156.800 MHz.
Cap Km. 35.420 East (b) Pilot Vessel and Radar Guidance:
Kantara Km. 45.130 East (i) Outside the Harbour: Call Sign: ‘‘Suez 11’’ (HP-2)
Ballah (E & W) Km. 54.770 East 156.550 MHz.
Ferdan Km. 64.894 East (ii) Inside the Harbour: Call Sign: ‘‘Suez 14’’ (HP-3)
Ismailia (E) Km. 76.127 East 156.700 MHz.
Toussom Km. 86.780 East (c) Admeasurement Office: Call Sign: ‘‘Suez 74’’ (M) 156.675 MHz.
Deversoir (E & W) Km. 97.845 East (B) UHF/Radiotelephony in the Canal:
Kabrit (E & W) Km. 120.827 East (1) UHF voice communications system was built to cover all the Canal
Genefa Km. 133.950 East and its approaches to facilitate communication between pilots and the main
Chaloufa Km. 146.125 East Movement Office at Ismailia and the Port Management Offices.
Port Tewfik Km. 160.300 East The Canal pilot uses a special portable UHF personal transceiver which
have the following frequencies.
Transmission Reception (9) Vessels enter the Canal: As vessels leave their berths at the port, the
Channel Frequency Frequency Function Port Management Office will follow and track them until entering the Canal.
No. MHz MHz As the vessel enters into the Canal, their identifiers will be automatically
1 415.350 412.850 V/Ls from North (SB) updated to add their ID and relative position within the convoy against their
2 415.600 413.100 V/Ls from South (NB) displayed picture on the display at Port Office and Main Management Office
3 415.850 413.350 Emergency (EM) at Ismailia.
4 416.600 414.100 In Port of Suez Harbour (10) Real Transit Pattern: As the convoy progresses along the Canal, the
HP (T) real time transit pattern is displayed and plotted.
5 416.350 413.850 In Port Said Harbour The real time transit pattern screen will provide the capability of viewing
HP (S) real time information as X, Y positions, speed, kilometer positions and off-axis
6 416.125 413.600 Emergency Critical (EMC) for each vessel, as well as the meteorological data of all signal stations,
Critical V/Ls (out of convoy) including the wind speed and direction, visibility, current speed and direction,
and height of the tide.
(2) Escort tugs-towing tugs will use special portable UHF transceiver sets (11) Vessel Passes Check Points: Check points are the inlets and outlets
which have the following frequencies. of by-passes, siding, each signal station, the Canal start and the Canal end.
(3) Channel 1 414.750 MHz. The order of vessels within the convoy is re-checked at each check points.
Channel 2 414.775 MHz. If the vessel has changed position within the convoy, this is automaticallly
Channel 3 414.800 MHz.
recorded in the transit history.
The information data base is updated to reflect the convoy and new convoy
CHAPTER II – THE SUEZ CANAL VESSEL TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT position displayed against the target.
SYSTEM (SCVTMS) (12) Information Displayed on the Signal Station Board: As each vessel
Article 88: Overview passes a signal station, the information will then update the signal station
Suez Canal has upgraded its VTMS installed in 1978 to readjust some of boards to provide convoy progress, the following information (Table 1 to 5)
the planning movement concepts to the new generation of vessels and for a vessel as it passes the station.
technology. The new system will provide complete surveillance and tracking Information of vessels as vessel name, convoy position, Suez Canal
by radar coverage of vessels throughout the Canal and its approaches at Authority ID, call sign, speed, location and meteorological data will be
Port Said and Port Tewfik harbours, tracking by Loran-C will be used as a displayed to the signal station operators on signal station PCs.
back-up for the radar surveillance. The newly developed VTMS system will (13) Vessel Leaves the Canal: When vessels get out of range of radar,
provide the following services: the information will close the vessel transit and is saved as a closed transit
(1) Automatic surveillance and tracking of vessels arriving at Suez Canal for historical reporting purposes.
approaches (15 miles away) until anchorage in the waiting areas. (14) In case of emergency or radar failure, the Canal Pilot will board the
(2) Automatic determination of arrival times at ports.
vessel with Loran-C; it will be installed on board the vessel by Suez Canal
(3) Automatic continuous tracking and monitoring of vessel’s position,
Authority personnel.
speed and separation distances for all vessels transiting the Suez Canal.
By initialising command from the Canal Main Management Office at
(4) Provide the Port Management Centres at Port Said and Port Tewfik,
Ismailia, tracking by Loran-C chain is executed.
as well as Ismailia Main Traffic Management Centre, with sufficient
instantaneous information about vessels transiting the Canal by means of In some cases, tracking by both radar and Loran-C chain will be executed
displaying complete televised radar pictures of the whole Canal and very to monitor the progress of vessel during their transit through the Canal, in
powerful information system. order to assure safety transit and increase Canal efficiency.
(5) Provide automatic displaying system for Pilots at all signal stations Article 90: New Information for Vessels Transiting the Canal
(signal state board) which display his arrival time, meteorological data, and (1) Each vessel has special Suez Canal Authority File number (SCA ID)
emergency information. in the new information system in Suez Canal.
(6) Provide integral data base for vessel information, transit regulations, Suez Canal Authority distributes free of charge special SCA ID card to be
traffic flow transit pattern, Pilot assignment, vessel billing and navigation kept in the radio room, vessel must report SCA FILE NR on all arrival
reports. messages for transits or port calls.
(7) Provide an efficient and quick means of communication with vessels Any change in vessel’s characteristics should be reported to Suez Canal
arriving at ports and with Pilots on board of vessels transiting the Canal. Authority officially, to be filled in SCA ID.
This system will add more safety values for vessels and cargo during (2) Meteorological data will be displayed on signal state boards (2nd line)
passage through the Suez Canal. The newly adopted computerised ideal/real to inform vessels of the prevailing weather conditions, as they pass the signal
transit pattern will ensure optimum and safety transit passage for the benefit station.
of her world users, Owners of vessels and the international trade. Also emergency or navigation instructions from the Main Management
Article 89: System Operation Office at Ismailia can be displayed on the same line alternatively.
(1) Transit Request: In order to assign a vessel in the system informatically, (3) The CORT should be mounted on either of the two wings on entrance
a transit request must be received from the vessel’s Owners or Agent at one of the Canal, the area around should be clear of obstructions within 10 ft.
of the Port Management Offices. radius.
Vessel Transit Request usually takes one of the following forms: A trained Suez Canal Authority technician will mount the CORT in place
Booking in advance; usually 3 or 4 days prior to arrival at port. and operate before disembarking.
Suez Canal Authority informed by telex or Agent that ship will arrive The vessel is asked to install electrical outlet 110/220 Volts AC (Hubbel
within 48 hours. socket type 2356 flanged receptacle nylon casing Hubbel catalogue
Suez Canal Authority advised that ship will arrive at any time. No. 35-R-2B 37), on the two wings to supply the CORT with electrical power.
A vessel that has previously transited the Canal will have a unique Suez Before vessel exits the Canal at either end of the Canal, the CORT will
Canal file number (Suez Canal Authority ID). be dismantled by a Suez Canal Authority technician.
It is required that this ID must be provided when the request for transit is
made. CHAPTER III – SIGNALS
If the vessel is not currently in the system information and data base, the Article 91: Generalities
Port Management Operator will create vessel particulars and automatically (1) All signals used in Canal Waters are shown in the ‘‘Plan Section’’.
assign a unique Suez Canal Authority ID. (2) All flags and pendants to be hoisted by vessels, as shown hereafter,
(2) Vessel Arrivals: A vessel approaching the Canal at either end is should be those in the International Code of Signals.
requested to call the Port Management Office on one of the frequencies listed (3) Night signals shall be hoisted where best seen by other vessels.
in Article 88. Article 92: Sound Signals
The vessel is requested to declare her position, her international call sign (A) Normal Manoeuvre
and Suez Canal Authority ID. (1) The International Regulation for Preventing Collision at Sea Signals.
The vessel will be tracked automatically by the radar sub-system and ‘‘One short blast’’: I am altering my course to starboard.
displayed on the graphic display, so that the Port Management Operator will ‘‘Two short blasts’’: I am altering my course to port.
be able to infolink it with the information on the arrival list. ‘‘Three short blasts’’: I am operating astern propulsion.
(3) Vessel Reaching the Anchorage Area: At both Port Said and Port (2) The signal 5 or 6 short blasts repeated several times at short intervals
Tewfik, anchorage areas are indicated on radar graphic displays. to say: ‘‘I am reducing speed and may have to stop or make fast’’.
Whenever a linked vessel reaches an anchorage area, the information will At night besides the blasts, four to five long flashes with the Aldis lamp or
record the time the vessel reaches an anchorage area. signal mast lamp.
(4) Vessel Berth List: The Port Management Office will continue tracking (3) The signal one prolonged blast to attract attention.
the vessel until entering the assigned berth location and stop and vessel The expression ‘‘short blast’’ means a blast of about 1 second duration.
berth list is created in the information. The expression ‘‘prolonged blast’’ means a blast of 4 to 6 seconds duration.
Each berth location will be indicated on the Port Management graphic (B) Obstruction in Channel in all Circumstances
displays, as well as Ismailia graphic displays. A vessel which under any circumstances causes or finds obstruction in the
The vessel berth list will be updated periodically to reflect any changes to channel must immediately warn the vessels in the vicinity.
the Port Operators. That warning is given by whistle or siren:
(5) Creation of the Transit Pattern: The Main Management Centre at 4 long blasts meaning: ‘‘The channel is not free’’.
Ismailia will generate the optimal convoy pattern based on the vessels That warning must be repeated every 3 minutes until vessels concerned
currently in the waiting areas or estimated to be in the waiting areas by the have answered in the same manner. As soon as they hear the signal
limit times. mentioned above, the vessels take steps to stop and instruct a Radio Watch,
The transit pattern will determine each convoy’s start time and maximum to receive full details of the alert given by the vessel that sent the said signal.
time width. The vessel should maintain Radio Watch until otherwise advised.
(6) Convoy Creation: At Port Said and Port Tewfik, the Harbour Master (C) Ship Failure (To Dredgers)
will order the vessels in the convoy patterns that were generated by the Main In case of engine or steering failure making the vessel not under command,
Management Centre at Ismailia. while approaching a dredger, the vessel has to give the signal one long blast
The official convoy list will only be comprised of vessels that have marked followed by two short blasts ( – ⭈ ⭈).
as eligible for transit (paid the transit fees, Performance Certificate, etc.). (D) Vessel Mooring Voluntarily for Fog or Sand Storm
(7) Assign Pilot to Vessels: The Port Management Office will assign the During the mooring manoeuvre, the vessel sounds every 2 minutes a series
Roads and Canal Transit Pilots. Pilot list and pilot convoy list will be printed. of 6 short blasts.
(8) Pilot Boarding Order: After the official convoy list is created, the convoy Once made fast (Signal No. 16 ‘‘G.V.’’ is hoisted), the vessel must rapidly
list report will be printed. After Pilot(s) have been assigned, boarding order ring the bell for 5 seconds at intervals not exceeding one minute. For vessels
reports will be printed. of 100 m. and over, they will have to ring the bell forward and in addition a
These reports will be given to each Transit and Roads Pilot as part of their gong aft, at intervals not exceeding one minute, (a gong or any other
pilot boarding orders. instrument which tone and sound will be different to that of the bell forward).
These signals are stopped when the vessel is told that all vessels Berth No. 1 Berth No. 2
concerned have been notified of her mooring. Max. d.w.t. 105,000 50,000
(E) Vessel Aground or Across Canal Sea line (crude): 24 in. 18 in.
See Article 92 (B) Obstruction in Channel. Sea line (ballast): 18 in. 18 in.
(F) Between Vessels and Tugs Tanker’s Length: 274.3 m. 213.4 m.
(1) Vessel Aground in the Canal Max. loading rate: 4,000 t.p.h. 2,500 t.p.h.
Signals between a vessel aground in the Canal and a tug.
These signals are for manoeuvre of refloating, as long as the vessel has Reception facilities for 30,000 cu.m. of dirty ballast.
one of the grounding signals. Two tankers can moor simultaneously but only one may load.
Pull slowly ( – ⭈) LPG/LNG FACILITIES: Onshore Facilities: The terminal produces
Increase ( – ⭈ ⭈) 330 tons/day (600 cu.m./day).
Stop (– –) Offshore Facilities: LPG carriers berth at the CBM mooring facility
Slack the line ( – – ⭈) consisting of five mooring buoys. Vessels are loaded via 8 in. submarine
I am to let go ( – – ⭈ ⭈) pipeline, with vapour return via 6 in. pipeline. Connection to port side manifold.
Two mooring launches available to assist in transferring ship’s ropes when
These signals are to be repeated by the tug. conducting mooring operations.
(2) Vessel Towed in the Canal Position: Lat. 28␥ 39.50' N, Long. 33␥ 10.40' E.
Signals between a vessel towed in the Canal and a tug. LOA: 219.8 m.
Radiotelephony is used as communication between ship and tug, besides Water Depth: 12.0 m.
the following signals. Max. Draft: 8.0 m.
By Day (Flag) At Night (Sound) Max. Size: 3,000 cu.m.
Slow speed : ‘‘A’’ hoisted above bridge (– ⭈) Sea Line (LPG): 8 in.
Half speed : ‘‘A’’ hoisted half way (– ⭈ ⭈) Sea Line (Vapour return): 6 in.
Normal Tow : ‘‘A’’ hoisted right up (– ⭈ ⭈ ⭈) Tanker’s Length: 219.8 m.
Steady : ‘‘A’’ lowered (– –) Max. Loading Rate: 190 cu.m./hr.
(Or sound signals if considered surer). FRESH WATER: Not available.
The sound signals are to be repeated by the tug. FUEL: Not available.
The flag signal remains flying as long as the tug is to give the signalled NEAREST AIRPORT: Hurghada International Airport.
speed.
By day, every change of flag signals is followed by a long blast. AUTHORITY: Belayim Petroleum Co, 5 El Mokhayam El Dayem Street
(G) Signals Between VLCCs and Escort Tugs (PO Box 7074), Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt. Tel: +20 (2) 262 1738, 262 1739,
(1) Attention to Start Manoeuvre 263 6384, 264 4444. FAX: +20 (2) 260 9792, 263 6384. Telex: 21003,
Prolonged blasts given by the ship. 92373, 92449 PETBL UN. Contact: Abd el Alim Tana, Operations General
(2) Stern Tug Manager. Captain Mohamed Mouuawad, Marine Operations (Tel: +20 (2)
Bring my stern to starboard (⭈) 402 4610. Mobile: +20 (10) 140 6130 (after 1500 hrs.)).
Bring my stern to port (⭈⭈)
Keep my stern in the axis (⭈⭈⭈)
Pull my stern aft slowly (⭈⭈⭈⭈) ZAAFARANA TERMINAL: 29␥ 10' N 032␥ 41' E
Increase pulling my stern (⭈⭈⭈⭈ – ) (See Plan)
up to half speed astern (⭈⭈⭈⭈⭈)
Increase pulling my stern (⭈⭈⭈⭈⭈ – )
up to full speed astern (⭈⭈⭈⭈⭈⭈) OVERVIEW: The terminal consists of a Floating Production Storage and
Stop pulling (very long blast) (——) Offloading tanker (FPSO) ‘‘Al-Zaafarana’’.
(3) Forward Tug LOCATION: The terminal is located off the west coast of the Gulf of Suez.
Give me a push on starboard bow (–) CHARTS: BA Chart No. 2373.
Give me a push on port bow (– –) ISPS COMPLIANCE: Port is compliant.
Stop pushing (– – –) MAX. SIZE: 150,000 S.d.w. tonnes, LOA 243.8 m. and max. draft
Article 93: Visual Signals See ‘‘Plans’’. 16.77 m.
PRE-ARRIVAL INFORMATION: Master to give to EGPC (Supply
Section) and terminal 72 hours, 48 hours and 24 hours notice prior to arrival.
WADI FEIRAN: 28␥ 44' N 033␥ 13' E (See Plan) VHF: Tankers can call ‘‘Al Zaafarana’’ on listening Channel 16 and working
Channel 8.
OVERVIEW: The terminal has two crude oil berths and one LPG berth. MOORING: Vessels moor alongside the FPSO.
There are 3␺2,700 cu.m. LPG spherical tanks and 12 large and
conspicuous storage tanks in two parallel rows of six tanks, each lined on
HOSES: Loading conducted through 3␺12 in. hoses with camlock
reducers.
shore near the pumping station and painted with aluminium.
LOCATION: An open anchorage on Sinai coast in the Gulf of Suez about CARGO OPERATIONS: Tankers must be equipped with inert gas
system, have a derrick with minimum 5 tons capacity.
85 nautical miles south of Suez. Loading rate is 3,000 t.p.h. at 93␥F through 3␺12 in. lines with camlock
CHARTS: BA Charts No. 2132 and 2373. couplings.
DOCUMENTS: The following documents are required for clearance Inert Gas System (IGS): Tankers calling at the terminal shall have a
inwards: working IGS.
4 Crew Lists Derrick/Crane: Tankers calling at the terminal shall have a derrick/crane
2 Stores Lists with minimum SWL 5 tons.
2 Vaccination Lists.
BALLAST: Tankers are permitted to discharge clean ballast to sea as per
ISPS COMPLIANCE: Port is compliant. current Marpol regulations and are to have segregated or clean ballast tanks
MAX. SIZE: LPG: 3,000 cu.m., LOA 219.8 m., draft 8.0 m., depth 12.0 m. if wishing to discharge ballast water at the terminal.
Tankers: 105,000 d.w.t., LOA 274.3 m., draft 16.15 m., depth 22.86 m. at NEAREST AIRPORT: Ras Sudr Domestic Airport, 40 km.
Berth No. 1.
AUTHORITY: Egyptian General Petroleum Co (EGPC), Palestine Street
DENSITY: 1032. Sector 4, New Maadi, Cairo, Egypt. Tel: +20 (2) 706 5956, 706 5954.
RESTRICTIONS: Mooring and unmooring during daylight only. FAX: +20 (2) 701 8813, 703 1457. Email: info@egpc.com.eg
Vessels must have 150 fathoms (274.3 m.) of chain on each anchor. Web: www.egpc.com.eg Contact: Eng. Nasr Agiza, Vice CHairman for
APPROACHES: Tankers must approach berth from west, never from Production (Tel/Fax: +20 (2) 518 5017/19).
north, and must follow same track on their departure to be entirely clear of AGENT: Gulf Agency (Egypt) Ltd, 22 Bani El Abassi Street, Pharanah, Bab
shallow water. Shark, PO Box 85, Alexandria 21111, Egypt. Tel: +20 (3) 484 0256,
PILOTAGE: Pilot boards at anchorage. 483 2510, ext. 1011, +20 12 2107206 (mobile). Fax: +20 (3) 484 8480.
ANCHORAGES: Lat. 28␥ 44' N, Long. 33␥ 13' E. Telex: 55777 GAC UN.
PRE-ARRIVAL INFORMATION: It is essential that vessels bound for
Wadi Firan give 72 hours, 48 hours and 24 hours notice to both ‘‘Petmisr
Cairo 92049 UN’’ and ‘‘Petbel 92449 UN’’, to be accepted on the berth without ZEIT BAY: 27␥ 48' N 033␥ 34' E (See Plan)
delay. Contact Abu Rudeis on VHF Channel 16 when in range. There is no
radio station at Abu Rudeis. OVERVIEW: SBM and LPG facilities operated by Suez Oil Company
VHF: Pilots listen on Channel 16 and work on Channel 14. (SUCO). There are six large storage tanks available ashore, painted a pale
Channels 16 and 14 are used for communication between tanker and yellow colour to the north of the tank farm. The area has ballast
terminal control station. receiving/treatment facilities. There is a flare structure SE of the storage
TUGS: 1␺3,080 h.p. and 1␺4,080 h.p. available for mooring and tanks.
unmooring. LOCATION: Zeit Bay is a small bay situated on the west shore of the Gulf
BERTHS: See ‘‘Tanker Facilities’’ and ‘‘LPG/LNG Facilities’’. of Suez, approximately 60 km. north of Hurgada, SW of Ashrafi Island.
TANKER FACILITIES: Crude Oil: Tankers at berth will be connected SBM: Located 1 n.m. NNE of Zeit Bay, in position Lat. 27␥ 50' N,
to shore pumping station by submarine hoses for pumping crude oil (12 in. Long. 33␥ 36' 12" E, in an open and unsheltered area.
hose from the starboard side). CHARTS: BA Charts No. 2374 and 2375.
Two mooring launches available. Both ship’s anchors are used, the port DOCUMENTS: Masters are requested to hand the following original
anchor first, normally 9-10 shackles in the water on each. At the stern four documents to SUCO Mooring Master upon arrival. These documents will be
wire ropes from buoys are taken on board. Special care should be taken returned when cargo documents are signed on departure:
when mooring in Southerly winds. If blowing strong, berthing may be delayed. 1 Certificate of Registry
Berth No. 1 Berth No. 2 1 Load Line Certificate
Position: Lat. 28␥ 45' N Lat. 28␥ 43.5' N 1 Safety Certificates.
Long. 33␥ 11.5' E Long. 33␥ 11.5' E Notice of Readiness: NOR will be accepted when vessel is in all respects
LOA: 274.3 m. 243.8 m. ready to receive her cargo, usually after loading arms are connected.
Water depth: 22.86 m. 17.68 m. The Mooring Master will submit to the Master all forms, documents and
Max. draft: 16.15 m. 12.19 m. papers required to be completed and signed, as received by the Master.
Zeit Bay EGYPT
ISPS COMPLIANCE: Port is compliant. TANKER FACILITIES: See ‘‘Max. Size’’, ‘‘Hoses’’ and ‘‘Cargo
MAX. SIZE: Gas: 2,500 d.w.t., LOA 108 m., beam no limit, draft 5.0 m., Operations’’.
depth 8.0 m. LPG/LNG FACILITIES: LPG (butane and propane mixtures) handled
Tankers: 250,000 d.w.t., LOA 344 m., draft 18.0 m. via two 6 in. camlock quick-coupling and 3 in. vapour return line. Loading
RESTRICTIONS: Weather conditions may prevent berthing, vessel will rate 280 t.p.h., max. pressure 10.3 Bar, ambient temperature 60␥C. Nitrogen
then remain in the anchorage area until weather improves. When wind speed available for line purging only. Vessel’s tank purging only with previous
exceeds 16 knots at LPG jetty, 25 knots at SBM. agreement. Flare line, venting to atmosphere not allowed.
The decision of acceptance is subject to Master’s and SUCO Mooring Also see ‘‘Max. Size’’ and ‘‘Cargo Operations’’.
Master’s approval. HOSES: SBM: 16 in. standard 150 ASA flange connection for crude oil
SBM: Daylight berthing, unberthing at any time. and ballast hoses. Port derrick with minimum 10 tons SWL to be rigged for
LPG Jetty: All berthing operations and passage of the channel inward and max. height and load lifting. Weight of the hose is approximately 8 tons.
outward are executed in daylight. Ship’s crew shall be responsible for connecting and disconnecting hoses
with assistance of shore crew. A quick-release coupling (camlock) is
ARRIVAL: Arrival time will be considered to be the time the vessel arrives connected to each hose end and is to be used as follows:
at the anchorage area.
1. Hammers are not to be used on the camlock, use the camlock wrench
APPROACHES: Navigational Objects: The following objects can be supplied or copper hammer only.
seen by day or night. Two grounded ships on north of Saab’s Ashrafi in 2. Vessels to be ready with reducer if manifold is not 16 in.
position Lat. 27␥ 49.5' N, Long. 33␥ 38.7' E and Lat. 27␥ 49.3' N, 3. Bags of sand to be readily available.
Long. 33␥ 39.2' E.
On BA Chart No. 2375, East Zeit Bay Terminal SBM Fl.Mo (U) 15 s. Zeit CARGO OPERATIONS: SBM: Vessel Trim: Vessels to be trimmed
Bay Terminal, located 1 n.m. SSE of East Zeit Bay Terminal Fl.Mo (D) 30.5 s. not more than 1.8 m. by the stern with appropriate ballast to ensure that the
Lighthouse in position Lat. 27␥ 49.8' N, Long. 33␥ 34.9' E. Black and white propeller is completely submerged.
colour with approximate height of 30 m., Fl.W.10 s. Vessel Communications: If ship-to-shore communications fail during the
loading operation, the emergency signal is a continuous blast on tanker’s
Approaching the Anchorage Area: When an LPG vessel arrives at whistle. Loading shall be immediately stopped and will not be resumed until
position Lat. 27␥ 50.2' N, Long. 33␥ 37.2' E, vessel may alter course to 172␥(T) communications have been re-established.
to head towards anchorage area, a distance of about 2.9 n.m. Closed Loading: All cargo tank lids are to be kept closed, and the vapour
Approaching Zeit Bay Channel and Shipping Lane: Masters should line system is used for venting.
be aware of drift caused by the prevailing NNW’ly wind and current. Use of Crew Requirements: During connecting and/or disconnecting the hoses, a
anchor is forbidden from the time the vessel reaches the western entrance responsible Officer should attend the operation. During loading, whether the
of Zeit Bay until final approach to pier, because of pipelines. Outside the weather condition is rough or calm, a responsible Officer must be on deck
shipping lane on the port side, there are four yellow platforms provided with checking on mooring gear at the forecastle at all times.
navigation aids. Vessels navigating in the shipping lane will pass near Loading: Upon being informed by the Officer-in-Charge that the vessel is
Platform C at a safe distance. ready to start loading, Mooring Master will normally advise the Control Room
Zeit Bay Channel and Shipping Lane: Channel is maintained at and ensure that the loading commences at a low rate (by gravity). When it
6.0 m. (LAT). Channel length is about 2 n.m. and about 200 m. wide. Channel has been confirmed that there is no significant rise in pressure on the loading
is marked by lighted buoys, each equipped with a radar reflector. line, the crude oil will be loaded, pumping with a maximum rate of 5,000 t.p.h.
The shipping lane between Ghanim and Ras Elbahar Islands is marked Crude oil is delivered through the submarine pipeline to the buoy and
by red marker buoys, showing the end of shoals and reefs. All vessels should thence via a floating hose to the vessel’s port side midship manifold. Hose
keep at least 30 m. from the buoys as a safety measure. All marker buoys diameter is generally 24 in., reducing to 16 in. at the ship’s end.
can be seen from any direction and in poor visibility. Prior to topping off the final tank or tanks, the Officer-in-Charge should,
PILOTAGE: SBM: Compulsory. SUCO Mooring Master will board through the Mooring Master, arrange for a reduction in loading rate. Loading
approximately 2 n.m. south of the SBM with mooring gangs. Vessels shall rate should be reduced by half at least 30 minutes prior to stopping loading.
provide a lee on the designated side for boarding. When the Mooring Master On advice from the ship, at least 3 minutes is required to close shore valves
boards, he will advise the Master, on the approach to the SBM the to stop the flow of oil. It is forbidden to close any valve on board the tanker
arrangements for mooring and unmooring, connecting of the hoses and all against the flow of the crude oil until the butterfly valve of the loading hose
other operations within the mooring area. has been closed. Before loading, cargo tanks are dipped by an independent
LPG Jetty: SUCO Mooring Master will board the vessel in the LPG waiting inspector and by Terminal Inspector. If dirty ballast is retained on board until
area. The Mooring Master advises the Master on the approach and berthing the next discharge port, then the amount of water and oil on top will be
operations and provides all necessary information. checked.
ANCHORAGES: SUCO will make every effort to moor arriving ships Density of Zeit Bay Crude is approx. (0.854/15␥C.). Temperature when
according to the agreed schedule. received on board is approximately 34␥C. Immobilisation of engines at SBM
is strictly prohibited.
SBM: Waiting area centred on Lat. 27␥ 48.5' N, Long. 33␥ 37.0' E. Radius Maximum wind speed for keeping vessel on SBM 40 knots.
0.9 n.m. Depth ranges from 20.0 – 39.0 m. Vessels are not permitted to anchor
outside the anchorage area. The ground at anchorage area is sandy mud. LPG: Before loading commences, the LPG Check List is to be completed.
Anchorage area in position Lat. 27␥ 47.3' N, Long. 33␥ 37.6' E. This position Emphasis is placed on close co-operation and good communications between
is located south of the crude oil carrier waiting area. LPG anchorage area is all parties to achieve safe operations.
half mile radius with depth 18.0 m. The area is considered clear of Pre-Operations Meeting and Inspection: The following will take place prior to
obstructions. Anchoring outside the waiting area or in Crude Oil Carrier Area any operations commencing:
is strictly prohibited. The following position with a surveyed depth of 8.0 m. 1. Complete the Safety Check List.
and co-ordinates Lat. 27␥ 47.7' N, Long. 33␥ 32.2' E is reserved as a waiting 2. Complete the LPG safety and observed Check Lists.
area. 3. Discuss any additional precautions required.
4. Ensure that tanks are in a fit condition to receive cargo without any
PRATIQUE: Masters are to inform port of any sickness on board in their hazards or contamination.
ETA notification. SUCO will arrange with Health Authorities if so required. 5. Discuss and agree tank inspections and samples required.
PRE-ARRIVAL INFORMATION: Master to send ETA message by fax 6. Discuss and agree loading programme, including quantity, loading
or telex 72, 48 and 24 hours prior to arrival to SUCO Head Office (Attention rate, pressure, temperature, connecting and disconnecting hoses,
Planning and Follow Up Manager). purging requirements and any other necessary requests.
VHF: Zeit Bay Radio listens throughout 24 hours on Channels 12 and 16. Recommended maximum vapour concentration in ship’s tanks before
12 and 6 hour message to be sent to Zeit Bay Radio on Channel 12 or 16. loading LPG:
SBM: One firefighting tug available on a stand-by basis whilst loading Previous Cargo in Vessel Recommended Maximum Concentration
operations are in progress. Ammonia 100 p.p.m.
TUGS: Two mooring line boats, 1␺500 h.p. and 1␺1,000 h.p., are available Ethylene oxide 30 p.p.m.
to assist with mooring and hose connection for vessels at SBM. The boats Propylene oxide 50 p.p.m.
are equipped for anti-pollution operations. Vinyl chloride 30 p.p.m.
Acrylonitride 30 p.p.m.
BERTHS: See ‘‘Max. Size’’ and ‘‘Mooring’’.
MOORING: SBM: SBM has an orange light, 15 n.m. range. All mooring The above concentrations refer to vapour concentrations considered safe
equipment is available and will be placed on board the vessel when Mooring for venting. They do not infer that these concentrations are acceptable from
Master boards. a cargo contamination point of view.
A vessel can make the final approach and moor to buoy from any direction, Operational Procedures: Loading will not commence until all the safety
bearing in mind prevailing weather and tidal conditions. The approach shall checks have been carried out to the satisfaction of the company.
be made from the direction which is consistent with a safe approach, and a) The company operators will connect the shore boom/hose to the
speed shall be subject to the prevailing forces (i.e. wind, current and tidal correct ship’s manifold as indicated by the Master. Under no
stream) at the location at the time of berthing with assistance of mooring circumstances will a ship be connected to a vapour return/vent system
boats stationed at the buoy. if oxygen content of any tank is above 0.5% volume. If any of the
Once moored the vessel is free to turn through 360␥ under the influence ship’s tanks are under vacuum the ship will be connected only if prior
of the prevailing forces. A Deck Officer must be on the forecastle from the agreement has been reached. The boom/hose will be purged to shore
time the Mooring Master boards the vessel until the vessel is finally moored. vent line and pressure tested to approximately 6.9 Bar with nitrogen.
During the time the ship is moored, the engine must be ready with full power The nitrogen will then be vented and the vent closed.
for immediate use. b) The Jetty Supervisor and Master will agree that systems are correctly
Emergency Towing Wires: Once the tanker is completely moored, lined up for operations to begin. Loading must now commence slowly
emergency towing wires should be rigged aft. to avoid rapid pressure build up. Ships must check that pull-off does
In case of any damage, the Master shall co-operate fully to enable the not cause cargo temperature to drop below tank minimum operating
Marine Manager and other authorities to investigate and survey such damage. temperature.
LPG Jetty: The pier, length 50 m., is equipped with two positive hydraulic c) During loading the ship’s tank pressures must be checked every
fenders located 50 m. north and south of the pier, in addition there are four 30 minutes and the information logged by the Jetty Operator. The
bitts on the jetty for mooring ropes. Vessel’s ropes will be used, and handled Master must inform the Jetty Supervisor of any deviation from the
by the pier crew. When vessel is safely moored and secured alongside pier, agreed cargo handling plan.
vessel’s heading will be 330/150␥. Mooring line boats will assist during d) Company operator will remain on the jetty at all times during loading.
approach to prevent drifting on to the pier. Ship’s anchor can be used if e) A crew member with a good command of the English language must
necessary. When ship is finally moored and properly secured, ship’s crew remain on deck at all times during loading.
rig fire towing wires, forward and aft, for line boats in case of emergency. f) The ship must not shut valves against the shore pumps while loading.
EGYPT Zeit Bay
g) The ship must give at least 10 minutes’ notice of the requirement to Oil Spill: In the event of a spill or its detection, SUCO Mooring Master must
stop or start pumping, except under emergency conditions. be notified instantly for the necessary action to be taken.
h) The company operators will clear the boom/hose with nitrogen. A MEDICAL: In case urgent medical assistance is required, the vessel should
watch on ship’s pressure must be maintained during this time if hose contact SUCO Marine Manager by VHF radio. A doctor and facilities are
contents are cleared to ship. available but there is no hospital in the area.
i) The ship’s valves will then be shut and company operators will purge Also see ‘‘Services’’.
and depressure the boom/hose.
j) The cargo loaded will be calculated from shore dips. FRESH WATER: Not available.
k) The Jetty Supervisor will witness ship’s dips/ullage and obtain from FUEL: Not available.
the Master the quantity loaded according to ship’s figures. The quantity CHANDLERY: Not available.
entered on cargo documents will be calculated from shore figures. SERVICES: Helicopter: Should the services of a helicopter be required
Cargo Handling Requirements: in emergency or for any purpose whatsoever, the vessel will be given a
a) Chemist’s Certificate: The company reserves the right to require an minimum of 30 minutes’ notice.
independent chemist to check the condition of ship’s tanks or the REPAIRS: No facilities.
quality of cargo before commencing to load. Reasonable notice of
this requirement will be given. POLICE/AMBULANCE/FIRE: Fire Tel: 3333. Radio Room Tel: 0.
b) Emergency shutdown systems: When ship is loading and it is FIRE PRECAUTIONS: Smoking and/or usage of naked lights is
necessary to initiate an emergency shutdown manually, the jetty forbidden. In emergency cases, a special permit is to be issued by authorised
system must be used. SUCO personnel to cover situation. There is a vessel fully equipped with
c) Nitrogen: Available at approximately 7 Bar and the berth nitrogen is firefighting equipment. The vessel will be available at all times during
available for line purging only. operations. It has four monitors installed on the main and upper deck, each
d) Portable instruments: The company reserves the right to require 12,200 cu.m./hr. and able to reach 120 m. and a height of 45 m., foam
intrinsically safe portable instruments to be placed on board ship compound is available. A continuous and efficient fire watch must be kept
during loading operations. Reasonable notice of this requirement will on deck and in the engine room whilst the vessel is moored. In the event of
be given. a fire, however minor, the fire alarm must be sounded immediately.
e) Purging: Purging from ship’s tanks to atmosphere is not permitted at LOCAL HOLIDAYS: Zeit Bay Terminal operations not affected by
the jetty. The Master must ensure the ship’s tanks are in a fit condition religious holidays.
to load cargo before arrival. WEATHER/TIDES: Climate: The climate in the Gulf of Suez is generally
f) Third party Independent Surveyor: The company reserves the right good. The visibility is usually excellent, except for occasional sand storms
to instruct a third party independent surveyor for the sampling and during summer months. Fog can occur during wintertime with dead wind.
measuring of cargo. Reasonable notice of this requirement will be Occasional rain during winter months.
given. Winds: The wind over this part of the Gulf of Suez is predominantly from
g) Vapour return line: Provided to enable ships to return compatible the NNW. Winds are steadier in the summer months (May to October) and
vapour to storage tanks to be pressured up with vapour from storage. almost nil from June to September. Gales can mainly be expected from a
Oxygen content of returned vapour must be less than 0.3% volume. NW’ly direction from October to May. The maximum velocity is approximately
Under no circumstances may nitrogen or other incondensable gases 40 knots, whilst the mean wind speed is approximately 20 knots and is
be returned along the vapour line to storage tanks. prevalent for some 98% of the year. There are occasional light southerly
h) Vent line: Provided to enable incondensable vapours to be vented to winds.
flare system. Permission to use the flare system will only be granted Tidal Range: 0.9 – 1.2 m.
if oxygen content of ship’s tanks as determined by company analysis
is less than 0.5% volume. The ship’s intention to use the vent system Currents: Currents are generally located in mid-channel and set north when
must be clearly specified to the Jetty Supervisor at the pre-operations the tide is rising in Suez, and south when the tide is falling. The rate is about
meeting. Use of ship’s mast vent is not permitted without company 1.5 knots at spring tides and 0.5 knots at neap tides.
authorisation. Sea Condition: The surface temperature of the sea ranges from 18 – 27␥C,
All operations shall, in general, be conducted in accordance with the depending on the season. Seas and swells are usually from the NNW and
requirements of the International Chamber of Shipping Tanker Safety Guides wave height can reach 5.5 m., but average is about 1.8 m. During the summer
for Liquid Petroleum Gases and the International Maritime Dangerous Goods months (May to October) there are many days of 3.6 – 4.6 m. seas. Swell is
Code. from north or NW and/or south or SE, with a maximum height of 1.2 m.
Communications on Loading Pier: NEAREST AIRPORT: El Tor Domestic Airport, 50 km.
1. The jetty will be continuously manned by company personnel while SHORE LEAVE: There is no shore leave for personnel.
a ship is loading. All normal communications should be passed REPATRIATION: Possible in emergency only. Under supervision of
through the Jetty Operator. In emergency situations, ship’s personnel Agent after issuing all permits from authorities.
may use the jetty head telephone.
2. A responsible English speaking crew member must be on duty at all
AUTHORITY: Suez Oil Co (SUCO), 21 Ahmed Orabi Street,
El Mohandessin, PO Box 2622, Cairo, 12411, Egypt. Tel: +20 (2)
times and must remain on deck during loading/discharging.
346 6377, 346 7922, 347 5059, 347 8948, 346 5909. FAX: +20 (2)
Hand-Over of Documents: There is a document hand-over from the Mooring 303 5434, 346 2571. Telex: 20477 SUCO UN, 9230 SUCO UN
Master to gas plant when the mooring operation has been completed and Cable: DEXGULF Contact: Eng. Hazem El-Sherif, Planning and Follow-up
vessel is secure. The same hand-over will be carried out after completion of Manager.
loading from gas plant to Mooring Master.
Emergency Procedures: Vessel Emergency Equipment Requirements:
1. Have adequate emergency equipment in working order and always
ready for use.
2. Retain sufficient suitable crew members on board at all times to man
emergency services and to move the ship if co-directed by the
Company.
3. Have fire-wires of sufficient strength rigged fore and aft on offshore
side with the towing eyes maintained just above water level.
In The Event of an Emergency:
1. Immediately cease operations and proceed as detailed on inside front
cover of the Terminal Manual (not reproduced).
2. Carry out any instructions received from the company.
3. Ensure the company is made aware of further action taken on board
your ship.
If Any Emergency Occurs On Board:
1. The emergency signal on board should be a continuous sounding of
the ship’s siren or other suitable strident alarm.
2. Shore personnel break-glass alarms.
3. Shore personnel dial emergency services.
Towing of Ships to Hazardous Waiting Area in Inner Bay: In the event of an
emergency, Jetty Superintendent will immediately stop the loading operation
and will inform SUCO Mooring Master whether to wait alongside or pull the
ship away with the assistance of the mooring line boats.
BALLAST: SPM: Deballasting System: There are 2␺22,000 cu.m.
capacity ballast tanks available ashore. It is preferable that vessels load crude
oil while discharging ballast, but Master or Officer-in-Charge must be sure
that no contamination or pollution takes place. If the vessel is not equipped
with two lines in order to load and deballast at the same time, a quantity of
crude should be loaded prior to deballasting to ensure proper segregation.
Dirty ballast must not be in the emulsion form and is not to contain chemicals
or detergents. The floating hose is normally 20 in. diameter, and the ship’s
end connection 16 in. diameter. It is strictly forbidden to discharge dirty ballast
overboard. 25 cents will be charged per tonne of dirty ballast water discharged
to Zeit Bay deballasting facilities.
POLLUTION: The Master should comply with all regulations and
instructions prohibiting pollution under Egyptian law and under any pertinent
instructions issued by SUCO when conveyed to Master. Also, the provisions
for International Convention for Prevention of Pollution from vessels 1973 and
the Protocol of 1978 relating to this connection will be applied to the extent
that such Convention and Protocol are in force in Egypt.
Owner/operator shall be liable for any damage resulting from the pollution
caused by the vessel and shall pay for all the expenses incurred for its
removal and elimination.

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General EGYPT

CHAPTER II – BUOYAGE SYSTEM IN THE CANAL

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