Due to recent grounding, the port reduced the under keel clearance in Durban by 30 cm
The Skuld P&I Club has been informed by its correspondents in South Africa about the recent developments and the effective port safety measures as there have been reportied recent incidens of grounding at the harbour entrance to the port of Durban.
The harbour master is expected to publish a report shortly on the issue of dredging as there may have already been a number of previous groundings in the port. As a result of these groundings, the port reduced the under keel clearance in Durban by 30 cm.
The Skuld advises operators to ensure that up to date charts are on board and the latest information on tides, vessel restrictions and keel clearance is obtained. Charterers are advised not to simply ascertain when orders are given to sail to Durban the conditions then but to continue to make enquiries whilst vessel is sailing towards the port. Circumstances can change from the time orders are given to arrival at the pilot station and members are encouraged to ensure as much information as possible is obtained and up to date.
Moreover, operators are advised to be aware of the vessel’s full dimensions and to make regular enquiries with agents in Durban especially for vessels with drafts in excess of 10 m. It is further recommended that enquiries are made as to dredging activities in the port prior to reaching port limits.
Source: The Skuld P&I Club