Ports

Port of Durban

Gateway to Africa

From humble beginnings approximately 150 years ago, this port has expanded to become the busiest on the African continent and a major gateway to and from Africa. The Port of Durban is also purported to be the second largest container terminal in the Southern Hemisphere, second only to the Brazilian Port of Santos.

Info and documentation required for vessels entering South African ports:

ISPS

All vessels except fishing vessels, require ISPS clearance before entry into port or anchorage is granted. Vessels need to submit ISPS Pre-arrival (PAR) a minimum of 96 hrs prior to arrival by either telex or email to the MRCC via Cape Town Radio. Instructions on the required format and procedure for submission of PAR will be given to master by Trade Ocean.

ETA Notices

As far as practical, master should provide ETA notices 10/7/5/3/2 and 1 day prior to arrival.

Port Health: All vessels must apply for "Free Pratique" prior to arrival at Cape Town. The application must be submitted a minimum of 48 hrs prior to arrival. Instructions on procedure and required format will be supplied to master by Trade Ocean.

Port Restrictions / Limitation:

Bar draft

13.20m at High water. Any vessel with draft exceeding 12.20m is considered " tidal" and may only enter and depart port during rising tide. All marginal drafts must be discussed with port authorities prior to arrival of the vessel.

Berth draft

Vary, supplied on application
Max LOA: No restrictions
Max beam: No restrictions
Berthing / Sailing: Port operates 24/7 basis with the exception of fishing vessels where daylight only allowed for berthing/sailing. Contact agent for further information if required.

Bunkers

Available by both barge and pipeline to the exception of fishing vessels which can only be bunkered by barge.

Available by launch only.

Anchorage

Available. Port Control to be advised of arrival via agent. Master to follow Port Control instructions on anchorage position.

VTS System / Traffic separation scheme

In place on approaches to Durban. Please consult pilot book and chart for procedure and reporting waypoints.

Please note: Trade Ocean offers the above port data in good faith for general information purposes only, and does not guarantee its' correctness at all times. Trade Ocean does not accept liability for errors, omissions, and changes. For the sake of good order, please reconfirm port data with us prior to making a decision to call at a particular port.