The Musaffah Channel gives access to the port area of Musaffah has a length of approximately 53 kms.
The channel has been dredged to a depth of 9m below chart datum. The length of the relocated channel compares with a corresponding length of approximately 30 km or 16 nautical miles for the Old Musaffah Channel, indicating that the relocated channel might be in the order of 80% longer than the old channel. In practice, because the relocated channel terminates in deeper water than the old channel, the increased channel length is not a significant issue.
Pilotage Directions
Pilotage is compulsory for all ships within the port limits of Musaffah; this includes the navigable channels leading to the port and all the waters, basins and channels alongside the quays and jetties in the port.
Abu Dhabi Ports Company has given a general exemption from pilotage for all vessels less than 60 metres long except ships carrying hazardous cargoes in bulk, which includes bunker barges, are only exempted if they are less than 40 metres long. Vessels of any length carrying more than 12 passengers and all vessels not noted above are subject to compulsory pilotage.
This means that they must have a licensed pilot on the ship to assist with the navigation of the ship whenever the ship is within the port limits of Musaffah; or the Master of the ship must have an exemption certificate, issued by Abu Dhabi Ports Company, which exempts the vessel from taking a licensed pilot.
Masters of ships subject to compulsory pilotage can apply for a Pilotage Exemption Certificate (PEC) if they can fulfill the requirements set out in the Pilotage Directions, including the tripping with pilots’ assessments and having successfully passed the Harbour Master’s examination.
Notice to Mariners
Notices to Mariners provide notification of changes that could affect port operations including, in particular, the safe and efficient movement of shipping in or out of a non-petroleum port.
Full Notice list...
Mariners Documentation
To be completed and sent to the first Abu Dhabi port of arrival via email or fax to the port VTS or via the ship's agent at least 48 hours in advance of the ETA.
Full Documentation list...
Musaffah Channel Tariff
Download Musaffah Channel Tariff 2011.
Port of Musaffah Handbook
Circular
Standard Terms and Conditions For ADPC Ports
