Musaffah Channel gives access to the port area of Musaffah and is 53 kms long.
The channel was dredged to a depth of 9 metres below chart datum. The old channel was 30 kilometres long or 16 nautical miles; the relocated channel is 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.
ADPC has given general exemption from pilotage for all vessels equal to or less than 80 metres long except ships carrying hazardous cargoes in bulk, which includes bunker barges. These vessels are only exempted if they are equal to or less than 40 metres long. Vessels greater than 40 metres long, 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 ADPC, 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 fulfil 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 General Charges
Musaffah Port Information Guide
Download Musaffah Port Information Guide
Standard Terms and Conditions For ADPC Ports
Guidelines for Towage Operations within Musaffah Port Limits
Download Guidelines for Towage Operations
