Suez Canal Transit Guide
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SeaBird Marine Services
(Last updated: March 2014)
This document is revised periodically.
For latest updates, please contact: seabird@@seabird-marine.com
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Table of
Contents
1.0 Preface 3
1.1 Suez Canal History
2.0 SEABIRD Suez Canal Transit Services 4
2.1 Introduction
2.2 Operational procedure
2.3 Financial procedure
2.4 Crew Change
2.5 Spare Parts
2.6 Supply & Purchase
2.7 Suez Canal Transit Department Contact details
3.0 Convoy Guidelines 10
3.1 North Bound Convoy
3.2 South Bound Convoy
4.0 Rebates 14
4.1 Long Haul Rebate
4.2 SBT/DHT Rebate
4.3 Volume incentive for LNG transits
4.4 Aqaba Wheat rebate
4.5 Automatic rebate Information
4.6 Transit after lightering at Ain Sukhna
4.7 STS operations
4.8 Passenger Vessels Rebate
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1.0 Preface
1.1 Suez Canal History
The idea of linking the Mediterranean and Red sea first occurred
during the
Pharahonic age.
The pharaohs dug the first canal linking both seas, the
Sea, through the eastern branch of the Nile Delta. Later the canal was neglected
until the Greeks, followed by the Romans, dug it several times but
it again fell into
neglect. The canal was dug once again at the time of the Arab
conquest of
continued to exist for
many years but was later filled up.
During the French campaign of 1798, Napoleon Bonaparte thought of
linking the two
seas directly by means of a navigation canal, but engineers did
not support the idea
for believing that the
managed to sign an
agreement with the Egyptian government to dig the
On
than 2.4 million
Egyptian workers were engaged in the operations, of which more
than 125.000 lost their lives. On
for navigation.
The
Atlantic and Mediterranean via
longest Canal that has
no locks, and can be widened and deepened at any time when
necessary. In July 1956,
international company for
about 87 years.
The
trade. It transports
14% of the total world trade, 26% of oil exports, 41% of the
total volume of goods
and cargo that reach
shortens considerably the
distance between East and West. For instance, 86% of the
distance between the
Saudi
saved if compared to
the route round the
The Egyptian government has always been keen on improving and
developing the
performance of the
transport due to the huge
capacity of tankers, giant cargo vessels and the everincreasing
number of ships crossing the Canal.
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2.0 SEABIRD
2.1 Introduction
SEABIRD’s Suez Canal
Transit Service was established almost 30 years ago. Since then,
it has gained unrivalled experience in serving the needs of ship owners
and operators
with vessels passing
through the
In January 1998, the Egyptian government abolished its monopoly on
ship agency
services in
Egyptian ports, including the
SEABIRD was the first shipping agency to respond to this decree
and was granted its
agency license in June 1998 and independently deposited the
required bank
guarantee of one million US dollars to the Suez Canal Authority (SCA). Since then,
SEABIRD has been able to attend directly to vessels of any size
transiting the
The Suez Canal Transit (SCT) Services
are coordinated from SEABIRD
in
Today, SEABIRD is the holder of the first market share place;
attending to 2,372 vessels
in 2006 accounting for 14% of the market.
2.2 Operational Procedures
SEABIRD takes over the day-to-day operations and boarding
arrangements, on behalf of
its principals, for vessels transiting the Canal from the initial
ETA advice up to the
vessel’s exit and sailing
from the
In this capacity, SEABIRD takes it on its responsibility:
• To ensure that vessels’ transits are booked with the Suez Canal
Authority and all
Operational arrangements are made in ample time prior to vessels’
arrivals.
• To monitor closely the ETAs of our
principals’ vessels and maintain contact with
Masters advising them of transit prospects as well as any other
necessary
Information such as arrival instructions and convoy times.
• To arrange for representatives of the Suez Canal offices to
closely liaise with
Masters of the vessels upon arrival for transit, and to render any
perceptible
Assistance to Masters.
• To ensure that any specific instructions requested by the
Principal will be carried
out, whenever possible.
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• To advise principals on daily basis with vessels’ positions in the
Canal, i.e.
arrival, entering, exiting times, together with figures for
bunkers on board and
any additional information that may be required.
• To follow up in case of any crew changes or air freighted
consignments arriving at
Airport - ensure prompt assistance to both crew personnel and air
consignments.
• If a vessel requires supply of provisions, stores, fresh water,
bunkers etc., SEABIRD
follows up such deliveries via its recognized local
subcontractors.
2.3 Financial Procedure
The Financial Procedures placed by SEABIRD
transits. Banking
arrangements and transfer of transit funds are handled as per the
following procedure:
• Upon receipt of nomination from the principal or upon receipt of
the ETAs of the
vessel for either
estimated transit funds
required. The pro-forma funds are calculated using the
prevailing SDR rate of the day, thus
avoiding over-estimation.
• The amount should be remitted to SEABIRD Egypt’s bank account two
working days
prior to the arrival
of the vessel at
• SEABIRD Egypt offices are electronically linked to the company’s
bank. Immediately
after receipt of the funds, they are automatically utilized to
make the necessary
arrangements with the SCA, ensuring
smooth transit.
• SEABIRD collects and carefully checks all vouchers and invoices,
and prepares the
disbursement accounts for each vessel prior to dispatch to the
principal via
courier.
• SEABIRD covers each disbursement account by a separate invoice in
US dollars.
• Depending on the number of transits, SEABIRD dispatches a monthly
statement of
account listing all invoices and advances drawn for completed
transits and arrive
at the monthly net balance due either way. Settlements are
arranged through the
agreed banks.
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2.4 Crew Change
Arrival and departure of crew members are looked after through
SEABIRD logistics special
“Meet and Greet” service based at SEABIRD’s office at the
2.4.1 Joiners:
The following information is required prior to arrival:
• Personal Details: Name, Rank, Nationality, Date of Birth, Passport
number and
Seaman’s book number.
• Full flight details including any connecting flight(s).
• Copy of passport prior to arrival to be faxed to SEABIRD EGYPT
(Suez Canal Dept.)
Fax No. +20-066 3223 218.
The following documents are required upon arrival:
• Valid seaman's book.
• An introductory letter from the owners stating vessel’s name, the
port ship
arrives and the Canal agent's name.
• Contract of employment.
• Officers should also carry their license of competency.
Entry Visa to
Entry Visa may be granted upon arrival at
Some countries, the Egyptian Authorities require securing a visa
before arrival in
• India
• Pakistan
• Bangladesh
• Somalia
• Sri Lanka
• Turkey
Nationals of the above mentioned countries are expected to send
data and
information, including a copy of their passport and visa, to the
agent 72 hours prior
to arrival at
2.4.2 Off Signers
The following documents are required for off-signers:
• Personal Details “Name, Rank, Nationality, Date of Birth, Passport
number and
Seaman’s book number”.
• Full flight details including any connecting flight(s).
• PTA reference NOS.
• Ticket collection place.
Note: Please contact
seabird@@seabird-marine.com prior to any crew change.
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2.5 Spare Parts
Procedure to be followed for forwarding spare parts to
Vessels transiting the
2.5.1 General Instructions
All shipments must be consigned to:
Master of M/V (insert vessel name)
In transit. Final destination is Port Said/Suez.
C/O SeaBird Marine Services.
Address : 201/5 Ashtoom El Gamil Blocks
Port Fouad ,
Tel: +2 012 4096457
Note: The abbreviation (SEABIRD
All AWBs (either airfreight AWBs or courier AWBs) and
commercial invoices must
indicate clearly the wording "In transit. Final
destination is Port Said/Suez.”
If this clause is missing for any reason, an urgent correction
must be sent without
any delay through the carrier.
Note: It is not sufficient for the
commercial invoice only to bear the above wording.
The AWB also must bear the same.
Shipments must be sent to SEABIRD
arrival, taking into
consideration Fridays (a local holiday in
holidays.
Note: Official working hours at the Airport
are
Working beyond these hours requires special arrangement and
involves extra
charges for night shift clearance.
A pre-alert must be sent to SEABIRD
spare is dispatched.
This pre-alert must include:
• Flight details
• Copy of the AWB
• Copy of the commercial invoice
Note: Arrival notices from airlines/courier
services may be delayed for many days
and they sometimes are not received at all. It is not recommended
to rely on them
to provide notification.
master should send 5 / 4 / 3 / 2 / 1 eta
notices to SCA and agent either for southbound
or northbound canal transit to Suez Canal e-mail : transit@mail.suezcanal.gov.eg
In the first eta notice master to include the following information :
dwt / int. grt and nrt / loa / beam / draft / flag / call sign / imo number /
type / quantity and nature of cargo /
last port / destination / scid if passed suez canal before / suez canal scgrt
and snrt / date of last transit /
stating present and ex name / if ship carrying dangerous cargoes must declare
quantity / nature and IMDG
class if any
Communications and contacts on arrival
aa / approach to port said :
15 miles before arrival to fairway buoy by passing Lat 31 28,7 N to make contact
with port with port said
port control via vhf on ch 12 / 16
bb/ approach to suez port :
5 miles before arrival north of lat . 29 42,8 N for ships with draft 38 feet and
over / lLPG and LNG carriers/
lash carrier/containerships of 3rd generation, but for ordinary ships of draft
less than 38 feett to make contact
with suez port control by passinglat 29 48,33 N via vhf. on ch. 14/16
upon master's contact, port control questioning about case of ship's anchor,last
and next port, quanatity,nature
of cargo and etc.
Suez Canal projector
Should be placed on the axis of the bow otherwise must hire one,in such a case
special installation will required
Ships passing suez canal directly from outer roads such as ship's carrying
dangerous cargoes / vlcc / lpg / lng / large containers should have their own "
gas light " type Projector
2 shore electricians board the ship to operate the projector during transit , a
sheltered Place should provide to them
Attention
Ship must supply electric power for smooth and continuous operation of the
projector
Cables and connections leading to the projector should be permanently fixed a
"gas light "
Connection box must installed close to the position of the projector
Anchors
ships passing suez canal must have 2 operating anchors lifted by windless, if
unable to use one their anchors are allowed to transit with the assistance of
Suez Canal imposed tug
Engines
vessels with 2 engines on one propeller request transit with one engine can
transit but after successful sea trial otherwise Suez Canal will require
seaworthy certificate
Ships Trimmed By Bow
subject to sea trial if badly manoevered a Suez Canal tug is imposed and may not
allowed to transit
Ship's List / Surpass Tropical Load Line
ship listed more than 3 degrees or surpass the tropical load line ( tropical
load line submerged are not allowed to transit
ships carrying inflammable cargoes in bulk must be complied with the
international approved standard.
master must notify SCA directly or via his agent clearly prior to arrival with
detailed list of carried cargoes, also full description ( scientific ,
commercial, names and IMO code etc. )
ship carrying dangerous / wasted cargoes / chemicals / phytopharm caeutical /
organic / clinical / poisons / corrosive / toxic / any cargoes subject to
spontaneous combustion etc. should obtain approval prior to their arrival unless
/ otherwise will forbidden to enter the Egyptian territorial waters.
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2.5.2 The Commercial Invoice
• Please ensure that the original commercial invoice is enclosed in
the docs pouch.
• Do not insert any items that are not listed in the invoice, so as
to avoid any
delays or Customs fines.
Note: In case of any discrepancy between
the invoice included in the docs pouch
and the invoice attached to the parcel, a Customs fine will be
imposed by Customs
authorities.
It is forbidden for any crew member to hand-carry any spare parts.
Suppliers must settle all freight amounts at the airport of origin
(i.e. AWBs must
arrive on freight prepaid basis).
2.5.3 General Recommendations
(a) It is highly recommended that all shipments are forwarded to
(b)
extra charges in
(c) It is recommended to consign the master AWB
directly to GULF AGENCY
COMPANY
(d) Receiving documents through forwarding companies always takes
more time
than expected and may hinder clearing operations.
(e) It is highly recommended not to use
experienced in
tracing/clearing such shipments.
2.6 Supply & Purchase
SEABIRD can act as the local coordinator for local supplies where
we can source and
quote for best possible prices for provisions, stores, fresh
water, consumables and
any materials needed on board.
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2.7 Suez Canal Transit Department Contact details
Tel: 002 012 4096457
Fax: 002 066 3223 218
E-MAIL: seabird@@seabird-marine.com
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3.0 Convoy Guidelines
Southbound convoy ( 2 convoys )
aa/ 1st sb convoy begin at 0100 hrs for ships arrive within the deadline i.e.,
1900 hrs
bb/ 2nd sb convoy begin at 0700 hrs for ships arrive within deadline i.e., 0300
hrs
duration of SB convoy 12 / 14 hours
Northbound convoy ( one convoy )
convoy begin at 0600 hrs for ships arrive within the deadline which is basis on
type and draught as under :
lpg / lng carriers and ship with draft 38 feet and over her deadline i.e 0100
hrs.
all of other ordinary ships her deadline is 0300 hrs to join same day convoy of
0600 hrs
duration of NB convoy 10 hours which not stop at bitter lakes provided that
,there are no gaps due to convoy formation or traffic system
In all cases there are limit time extension for Suez canal transit against an
additional canal dues fluctuate between 3 % and 10 % in case of arrival
after deadline and within limit time extension
Three convoys transit the Canal daily, two southbound and one
north bound.
3.1 Northbound Convoy “Port
Vessels complete the transit of the Canal in approximately 10
hours in the
Northbound convoy.
Two hours before arrival at the
office by VHF channel
14 in order to provide details of transit.
The pilot boat can be contacted via VHF channel 14.
Northbound convoy commences at 0600 HRS LT at KM 160 and consists
of two
groups of vessels:
3.1.1 Group A
Vessels entitled to the first group:
• 3rd & 4th generation containerships over 40,000 SGRT
• Lash Carriers over 35,000 SCGRT
• LPG-LNG (Loaded or N.G.F.)
• Loaded VLCC'S, Conventional or Chemical
Tankers
• Heavy Bulk carriers and other vessels with draft over 38 FT or
length over 950 FT
B.P)
Arrival Limit:
0100 HRS on passing north of latitude 29 42.8 N.
Late Arrival facilities:
• 3% additional Canal tolls from 0100 Hrs Lt - 0300 Hrs Lt
• 5% additional Canal tolls from 0300 Hrs Lt - 0400 Hrs Lt
• In case vessels arrive after 0400 Hrs Lt, they may still join the
northbound
convoy on the same day at 0600 HRS against 10 percent additional
Canal tolls,
provided that circumstances are favorable and authorized by the SC
authority.
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3.1.2 Group B
Vessels entitled to the second group:
Cargo vessels and other vessels anchored in Suez Anchorages (Area
C)
Arrival limit:
0300 HRS on passing north of latitude 29 48.33 N.
Late arrival facilities:
• 3% additional Canal tolls from 0300 Hrs Lt - 0400 Hrs Lt
• 5% additional Canal tolls from 0400 Hrs Lt - 0500 Hrs Lt
• In case vessels arrive after 0500 Hrs Lt, they may still join the
northbound
convoy on the same day at 0600 HRS against 10 percent additional
Canal tolls,
provided that circumstances are favorable and authorized by the SC
authority.
3.2 South Bound Convoy “
Vessels complete transit of the Canal in approximately 12 to 14
hours in the
southbound convoy.
Fifteen miles before arrival at the fairway buoy, vessels should
contact the harbour
office via VHF channel 12 or 16 in order to provide full details
of transit.
3.2.1 First SB Convoy (N1)
Commences: 0100 Hrs Lt.
Arrival limit:
1900 HRS South of latitude 31 28, 7 N
Late Arrival facilities:
• 3% additional Canal tolls from 1900 Hrs Lt - 2100 Hrs Lt
• 5% additional Canal tolls from 2100 Hrs Lt - 2200 Hrs Lt
• In case vessels arrives 2200 Hrs Lt, they may still join 1st SB
convoy 0100 HRS
against 10 percent additional Canal tolls, provided that circumstances
are
favorable and authorized by the SC authority.
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3.2.2 Second SB Convoy (N2)
Commences: 0700 HRS up to 0900 HRS LT.
Arrival limit:
0300 South of latitude 31 28, 7 N
Late Arrival facilities:
• 3% additional Canal tolls from 0300 Hrs Lt - 0400 Hrs Lt
• 5% additional Canal tolls from 0400 Hrs Lt - 0500 Hrs Lt
• In case vessels arrive after 0500 Hrs Lt, they may still join 2nd
SB convoy at
0700 HRS against 10 percent additional Canal tolls, provided that
circumstances
are favorable and authorized by the SC authority
Second SB Convoy (N2) Restrictions:
maximum dimensions of vessel's sizes and
draugt
maximum length - no restriction
maximum beam 254ft,3 inch
maximum air draft 68 m in high water
loaded ships can transit suez canal both ways on maximum draft 66 feet
corresponding to beam 164 feet
attention
ships with beam over than 245 feet 3 inch need prior approval from Suez Canal
draft must not exceed tropical load line
list not exceed 3 degrees
For Safety Measures, the following vessels are not allowed to join
the second SB
convoy (N2), which has to moor at Ballah
loop:
• Loaded Vessels carrying Petroleum grade A and similar substances
(Flash point
below 23 °C or 73 °F)
• LPG, LNG or similar vessels that are not GAS free.
• Vessels carrying chemicals in bulk and not fitted with
double-bottom.
• Vessels carrying radioactive substances of Group 1.
• Heavy lifters (SEMI-SUBMERSIBLE) carrying heavy lift units with
tonnage
exceeding lifting capacity of its cranes.
• Vessels carrying deck cargo protruding more than the maximum
allowable.
• Vessels with beam over 154 FT.
• Vessels with draft over 42 FT.
• Vessels with Suez GRT above 90,000 TS.
• Navy Ships.
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Special Cases
A.
Vessels with draft between 42-45 FT, beam less than 146 Ft and in
compliance with
the rest of above restrictions are allowed to join the 2nd SB
convoy (N2) that has
to moor at Ballah
Late Arrival facilities for vessels under above mentioned Special
Case:
• 8% additional Canal tolls from 0300 Hrs Lt - 0400 Hrs Lt
• 10% additional Canal tolls from 0400 Hrs Lt - 0500 Hrs Lt
• In case vessels arrive after 0500 Hrs Lt, they may still join the
2nd SB convoy at
0700 HRS against 10 percent additional Canal tolls, provided that circumstances
are favorable and authorized by the SC authority.
B.
Container ships with Suez Canal GRT
between 90,000 MT and 95,000 MT and in
compliance with the rest of above restrictions (including Special
Case A) are allowed
to join the 2nd SB convoy (N2) that has to moor at Ballah Loop against an additional
charge equal to 5% of the Canal tolls.
Late Arrival facilities for vessels under above mentioned Special
Case:
• 8% additional Canal tolls from 0300 Hrs Lt - 0400 Hrs Lt
• 10% additional Canal tolls from 0400 Hrs Lt - 0500 Hrs Lt
• In case vessels arrive after 0500 Hrs Lt, they may still join the
2nd SB convoy at
0700 HRS against 10 percent additional Canal tolls, provided that
circumstances
are favorable and authorized by the SC authority.
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C.
Container ships with Suez Canal GRT
between 95,000 MT and 100,000 MT and in
compliance with the rest of above restrictions (including Special
Case A) are allowed
to join the 2nd SB convoy (N2) that has to moor at Ballah Loop against an additional
charge equal to 8% of the Canal tolls.
Late Arrival facilities for vessels under above mentioned Special
Case:
• 10% additional Canal tolls from 0300 Hrs Lt - 0400 Hrs Lt
• 12% additional Canal tolls from 0400 Hrs Lt - 0500 Hrs Lt
• In case vessels arrive after 0500 Hrs Lt, they may still join the
2nd SB convoy at
0700 HRS against 12 percent additional Canal tolls, provided that
circumstances
are favorable and authorized by the SC authority.
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4.0 Rebates
It is an important part of SEABIRD service to look constantly for
ways to reduce costs for
Principals.
Possible area’s for cost reduction is rebates on canal tolls
offered by the SCA. SEABIRD
checks rebate eligibility and assists principals with preparation
and submission to the
SCA of applications,
negotiations for maximum rebate and, on completion of the
vessel’s voyage, the collection and submission to the SCA of required documentation
for refund of a confirmed rebate.
Applicable Rebates are:
4.1 Long Haul Rebate
4.2 SBT/DHT Rebate
4.3 Volume incentive for LNG Transits
4.4 Aqaba Wheat Rebate
4.5 Automatic rebate Information
4.6 Transit after lightering at Ain Sukhna
4.7 STS Operations
4.8 Passenger Vessels Rebate
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4.1 Long Haul Rebate Information
For some years, the SCA has been
granting rebates to owners/operators whenever
they are able to
prove that the voyage cost via
proceeding via the
Cape/alternative route.
In order to approach the SCA for a
rebate, an application has to be sent to them,
preferably prior to the vessel leaving its port of origin and
definitely 48 hours prior to
vessel reaching deviation point.
If/when the SCA grants a rebate for a
vessel’s transit, the Canal tolls have to be paid
in full and the refund of the rebate is only made once the
vessel’s voyage has been
completed and certificates from the port of origin and destination
provided to the
SCA, proving the vessel’s voyage
effected.
It is important that vessels should not deviate from the agreed
rebate voyage offered
(port of origin/destination); then the SCA
may reserve the right to either alter their
offer or, in some cases, cancel the rebate granted.
Whenever the Principal believes they are entitled for a rebate
voyage case, SEABIRD can
arrange to submit an application on its behalf.
In order to do this SEABIRD requires the following information:
• Vessel's full particulars
• Vessel’s Transit Draft
• Vessel's speed/consumption
• Unit price/cost of IFO/MDO
• Daily time charter hire
• Port of origin/destination
• Type/qty of cargo onboard
• Vessel's ETS from port of origin
• Vessel's ETA Suez / Port said
How does the SCA calculate the Long Haul
Rebate Offer?
There is no simple formula which the SCA
uses to calculate their rebate offer.
There is a rebate committee, which meets every day (apart from
Fridays & public
holidays) and discusses all rebate applications submitted since
their last meeting.
All members of this committee agree on the rebate percentage that
would be
granted to each vessel/route and then the director of the Transit
Department signs
the rebate offer, and is sent by fax to whoever submitted the
rebate application.
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When studying applications, the rebate committee refers to:
• SDR rate
Special Drawing Right, which is received daily from the Central
Bank of
who obtains this rate from the
Central Bank of
• Bunker prices
Information on bunker prices obtained from worldwide bunker
markets as well as
independent brokers.
• Charter rate
Information is received through Lloyds as well as independent
brokers
(Clarksons).
• Weather forecast
Information is received from the Egyptian international forecast
authority and
Independents Maritime Research.
• World scale
Information received from World Scale London.
• Speed and consumption
Information from Lloyds register
• Freight rates
Information through international sources as well as B.F.I.
• Other rebate applications
• Suez Canal traffic
Less traffic means higher rebates in order to attract principals.
SEABIRD
therefore is in a position
to know when a principal underestimates or overestimates a
variable.
Therefore, SEABIRD
possible to the market
rates and as favorable as possible to the client.
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Documents required for the release of the Long Haul rebate funds
Please Note hereunder details of rebate documentation required by
the SCA in order
to refund a granted rebate.
On receipt of the following documents in original - signed and
stamped - the SCA will
refund the rebate to
SEABIRD
for refund or utilization
towards subsequent transit costs, whichever required.
• Signed and stamped declaration from the Port Authority office at
the port of
origin stating: vessel’s name, date of arrival, quantity and
nature of cargo on
arrival, quantity and nature of cargo on departure, date of
sailing, port sailing to.
• Signed and stamped declarations from the Port Authority office at
the port of
destination stating: vessel’s name, date of arrival, port coming
from, quantity
and nature of cargo on arrival.
Note: by the terms “ports of origin and
destination” is meant the last port of
operations prior to the
Canal.
• Signed and stamped declaration from the Port Authority office of
any port
called at en-route for the purpose of bunkering and/or other
owners’ matters.
Note: in case of stoppage in intermediate
ports for repairs, the SCA allows such
stoppages for routine or emergency repairs without affecting the
rebate
percentage on the condition that the maximum period for repairs
does not
exceed six days and the stop for repairs must be supported by a
certificate from
the Port Authority or dockyard.
Important: all declarations must be
original and rubber stamped by the Port
Authority office and duly signed. SEABIRD recommends that stamps
/signatures are
done in either red or blue ink to avoid SCA
claiming same are photo-copies.
• Claim certificate from the principal prepared on company
letterhead and duly
signed/stamped (see wording below).
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An example of a principal's claim certificate would be:
QUOTE
To: The Suez Canal Authority - Ismailia
Attention: Directorate of Transit
Subject: M/V (insert name of vessel and transit date)
In our capacity as owner/operator/charterer
(delete as applicable) of the above
vessel, we confirm that
the vessel transited the
we received a rebate on canal
tolls of (insert rebate percentage) from your good
selves for her voyage from/to (insert origin/destination ports)
and the vessel did not
call at any port in between for cargo operations.
Please arrange to transfer the rebate refund to the account of
Gulf Agency Company
(
(Signature and stamp)
UNQUOTE
Important: the above certificate must be
written on the company official letterhead.
The above original documents should be forwarded to the SEABIRD
Note: Rebate documentation must be received
by the SCA within six months of the
vessel’s transit. Otherwise, the rebate will be automatically
cancelled with no
exception.
Page 20 of 31
4.2 SBT/DHT Rebate
4.2.1 SCA Circular No. 6/1993 Article 2
SBT reduction
Article 2
Tankers in items 1, 2, 3 loaded or in ballast condition as well as
these mentioned in
item 5 loaded with bulk liquid or in ballast condition shall have
following reduction:
• 4% reduction of the normal Suez Canal dues for segregated ballast
Tankers.
• 2% reduction of the normal Suez Canal dues for double hull
tankers.
Item 1: Tankers of Crude oil.
Item 2: Tankers of Petroleum Products.
Item 3: Other Bulk Liquids, LPG & LNG Carriers.
Item 5: Combined Carriers:
• If carrying crude oil only.
• If carrying Petroleum Products only.
• If carrying more than one kind of Cargo.
• If carrying Dry Bulk only.
• If carrying other bulk liquid.
• If in Ballast.
4.2.2 Explanatory Note for SCA Circular
No. 6/1993 Article 2
• Hull design and percentage of reduction
1) Oil tankers without double bottom tanks complying with MARPOL 73/78, annex 1,
regulation 13e shall qualify for 4 % reduction.
2) Oil tankers with double bottom tanks complying with MARPOL 73/78, annex 1,
regulation 13e, shall qualify for 2 % reduction.
Note: Tankers with only double bottom tanks
are not subject to any reduction, as
double bottoms are exempted from tolls unless used to carry cargo.
3) Oil tankers without double bottom tanks complying with MARPOL 73/78, annex 1,
regulation 13f (4) shall qualify for 4 % reduction.
4) Double hull oil tankers without double bottom tanks complying
with MARPOL
73/78, annex 1, regulation 13f (3) shall qualify for 4 % reduction
5) Double hull oil tankers with double bottom tanks complying with
MARPOL 73/78,
annex 1, regulation 13f (3) shall qualify for 2 % reduction
Page 21 of 31
4.2.3 Documents required
Applicants should submit the following documents before transiting
the Canal:
Copy of international oil pollution prevention (IOPP) certificate of compliance
and its supplement for the record of construction and equipment as
amended.
Copy of capacity plan.
Copy of tank plan and piping system.
Note: Tankers applying for reduction shall
qualify for either a 2% or a 4% discount
according to hull design as mentioned above. The 2% or the 4%
reductions will not
be aggregated under any circumstances.
4.2.4
The measurement of tankers constructed according to MARPOL 73/78 without double
bottoms includes 100% of their segregated ballast tanks. The
measurement of
tankers fitted with double bottom tanks (as part of the double
hull) includes only
about. 50% to 65% of the total segregated ballast tanks, due to
the exemption of
the double bottom from the measurement. The effect is that tolls
related to carrying
capacity for tankers having a double bottom are less than those
for tankers with no
double bottom.
This is the reason for applying a 4% reduction for SBT vessels without a double
bottom, 2% for SBT vessels with a double
bottom as part of a double hull and no
reduction for SBT vessels with only a
double bottom.
Page 22 of 31
4.3 Volume incentive for LNG transits
4.3.1 SCA Circular No. 1/99 – Article
Two
Firstly:
In addition to the reduction granted to LNG’S (35 pct), further
Rebates to liquefied
natural gas quantities
transported through the
hereunder:
A. 5% on the
quantities transported
through the
year starting from
the date of contracting with SCA, exceed half a
million tons
and up to one million tons.
B. 10% on the
quantities transported by
one individual client during one year starting from the
date of contracting with SCA, exceed one
million tons and up to two million tons.
C. 15% on the
quantities transported by
one individual client during one year starting from the
date of contracting with SCA, exceed two
million tons.
Secondly:
Reductions stated in article two, item first (a, b, c) shall be
settled upon the return
trip once the bill of lading and the cargo manifest has been duly
submitted.
Thirdly:
Any client who wishes to benefit from the said reductions, article
two, item first (a,
b, c) shall submit a request stating all necessary information,
adequately in advance
of transit. A special file on the client's carriers shall be
initiated to follow up there
trips and calculate their relevant gas quantities that have
already been transported.
Page 23 of 31
4.3.2 Documents required:
In order to initiate a volume incentive file, a principal should
send to SEABIRD a fax on the
company letterhead with the following text:
QUOTE
To: Suez Canal Authority
Attention: Admeasurements Department
Subject: Initiation of volume incentive file (VIF)
for LNG transit
In accordance with circular no. 1/99 article two regarding rebates
provided to liquefied
natural gas quantities transported through The Suez Canal, we
hereby kindly request
the initiation of a volume incentive file with immediate effect.
Signed and stamped
UNQUOTE
Principals should, in due course, also forward the original of
this letter to SEABIRD to
deposit it with the SCA.
As soon as a VIF file for your company
is initiated, SEABIRD will provide the SCA with all
necessary information regarding LNG quantities being transported
through the
Canal by the related vessel.
If the principal achieved the set incentive according the SCA circular within one
physical year from the initiation date of the VIF
the respective additional rebates will
be granted to the LNG vessel.
Page 24 of 31
4.4 Aqaba Wheat rebate
4.4.1 SCA Circular No. 5/1996
Granting rebate in transit dues to ships carrying wheat and
heading to Aqaba
Harbour.
Firstly:
SCA decided to Grant the ships
coming from regions North Of The Suez Canal And
carrying wheat (only) to be unloaded in the Jordanian harbour Aqaba a rebate Of
10% In Canal dues for both trips (loaded and ballast).
Secondly:
To have the advantage of this rebate, a certificate from Aqaba harbour proving
complete discharge of the shipment in the harbour
should be submitted.
Thirdly:
The ship should pay full transit dues at the day of transit till
submitting the certificate
mentioned in the secondly item.
4.4.2 Documents Required For The Release Of An Aqaba/Wheat
Rebate:
Below are the details of the rebate documentation required by SCA in order to refund
the rebate granted. Upon receipt of the following original
documents signed and
stamped, the SCA will refund the rebate to SEABIRD
your account for
refund or utilization towards subsequent transit costs, whichever
required.
Signed and stamped declaration from
quantity and nature of
cargo on arrival and proving complete discharge of the
shipment in Aqaba harbour.
a) Certificate From Aqaba
QUOTE
We hereby confirm that (insert vessel name and call sign) arrived
at
on (insert date) with cargo of
(insert quantity in metric tons) bulk wheat only.
Above vessel discharged her entire cargo at
(Signature and Stamp)
UNQUOTE
Important:
Above declaration must be original and rubber stamped by port
authority office and
duly signed. We recommend stamps/signatures are done in either red
or blue ink to
avoid SCA claiming same are photocopies.
Page 25 of 31
b) Claim certificate from yourselves prepared on company
letterhead duly
signed/stamped (see wording below).
• Example Of Principal's Claim Certificate
QUOTE
To: Suez Canal Authority Ismailia
Attention: Directorate of transit
Subject: MV (insert name of vessel and transit date)
In our capacity as owner/operator/charterer
(delete as applicable) of the above
vessel, we confirm that
the vessel transited the
we received a rebate on Canal
tolls of 10% from your good selves for her laden
voyage with cargo of wheat in bulk only from (insert origin) to Aqaba and her ballast
voyage from Aqaba to (insert destination
port).
We also confirm that the vessel did not call at any port in
between for cargo
operations.
Please arrange to transfer the rebate refund to the account of
Gulf Agency Company
(
(Signature and Stamp)
UNQUOTE
Note: By ports of origin and destination is meant last port of
operations prior to
Canal and first port of operations after
Important:
The above certificate must be written on original company
letterhead.
The above original documents should be forwarded to SEABIRD
Note: Rebate documentation must be received by the SCA within six months of the
vessel’s transit. Otherwise, the rebate will be automatically
cancelled without
exception.
Page 26 of 31
4.5 Automatic Rebate Information
The Suez Canal Authority in order to attract VLCCs
in ballast 200,000 DWT and
above, which sail from
ports of the
coast of
A reduction of 20% from normal Canal tolls for VLCCs
coming from the Gulf of
A reduction of 20% from normal canal tolls for VLCCs
coming from the
Caribbean zone and the north coast of South America.
4.5.1 Documents required for the legalisation
of an automatic rebate:
1) Certificate signed and stamped from the Port Authority of port
of origin (meaning last
port of discharge
prior to
vessel’s departure and
status of vessel on departure (in ballast).
2) A written commitment to pay full transit dues in case of
changing ports of
origin/destination stamped and signed by owner/operator.
(Please find sample (a) below)
3) A written commitment of same signed and stamped by the master
of the vessel and
sealed by the vessel’s stamp.
(Please find sample (b) below)
4) Within a month from transit date, a certificate signed and
stamped by the Port
Authority of first port of destination in the Arabian Gulf stating
date and status of
arrival (ballast) and name of port coming from.
5) Within a month from transit date, a certificate signed and
stamped by the Port
authority of any port called at en route for the purpose of
bunkering and/or other
owners’ matters (maximum period of stay 6 days).
Important:
(1) SCA's rules state that the above
documents 'a' and 'b' must be on board the
vessel upon arrival at
(2) Since it is sometimes not possible for this to be arranged
prior to vessels'
sailings, the SCA accepts a fax copy of
same prior to vessel's arrival and the
originals to follow within one month from transit date.
Master should ensure that he will have ready on board the above
document 'c'
upon arrival at
Page 27 of 31
SEABIRD will advise master with a separate message with copy to
the Principal
good selves.
(3) Vessel should not deviate from the route US Gulf/Arabian Gulf
and no delay is
permitted.
Suez Canal Authority will calculate the duration of the rebate
voyage basis
vessel's speed in order to check whether vessel has been delayed.
(4) The only permitted deviation is port calls for owner’s matters
or repairs and
their duration should not exceed 6 days in total.
(5) In case any of the above conditions is not followed, Suez
Canal Authority will
cancel the granted rebate with no exception.
In view of the above, Principals are kindly requested:
i) To ensure the prompt despatch of the rebate documentation to our office
within the above time limits.
ii) To ensure that the vessel will not be intentionally delayed
(e.g. drifting for
orders).
iii) In case of compulsory delays (e.g. weather conditions,
technical
problems) or intended deviations for owner’s matters/repairs it is
essential
to notify us immediately in order to check with the Suez Canal
Authority
and request their approval.
Sample (a): Suggested wording for Principal’s Commitment:
(To be prepared on company letterhead)
QUOTE
To: Suez Canal Authority, Ismailia
Subject: (insert name of vessel)
ETA Port Said (insert ETA)
The above vessel is scheduled to arrive at
Canal transit.
The vessel is arriving from (insert name of last disport) and is
bound for
and has been confirmed as eligible for 20% reduction on Canal
tolls as per SCA
circular no. 2/2005.
We confirm that full Canal tolls will be paid in the event that
vessel will change of
ports of origin/ destination.
Signature/ stamp
UNQUOTE
Page 28 of 31
Sample (b): Suggested wording for Master’s Commitment:
QUOTE
Certificate
Messrs:
I, the undersigned Master of (insert vessel name) certify that the
vessel under my
command has arrived at
Coming from: (insert name of last disport)
Proceeding to:
The vessel did not and will not call at any ports for cargo
operations and will not stop
for repairs (if any) more than (six) days.
In compliance with
(delete as applicable and insert name of
the company that will pay canal tolls) will
pay full transit tolls in case of not fulfilling all conditions
stated in the above
mentioned circular and declarations concerning the tolls reduction
on behalf of
owner/charterer (delete as applicable).
(Master’s signature)
(Vessel’s stamp)
Port Said on (insert date of arrival at
UNQUOTE
The above original documents should be forwarded to the SEABIRD
Note for vessels calling at Al Basra Oil terminal in
In case the first call of port in
the Master is instructed to prepare
a declaration and have the same signed/stamped
by the Iraqi Customs office prior to the vessel’s sailing.
Page 29 of 31
4.6 Transit after lightering at Ain Sukhna
4.6.1 SCA circular no. 5/2004
terminal at Sukhna.
1. Tolls of USD 0.63 will be levied on
each metric ton of crude oil on board during
2. Crude oil cargo carried by the tanker
shall be deducted from the volume
discharged at SUMED from the total cargo
indicated in the cargo manifest and the
bill of lading (in metric tons).
3. Minimum transit dues for the loaded
northbound trip are USD 130,000
4.7 STS operations
4.7.1 SCA circular no. 3/99
Companies specialized in loading, unloading and re-loading
operations (STS) can get
involved to encourage the passage of super tankers that currently
do not use the
The company can lighten part of the super tanker's cargo (mother
ship) into a
smaller tanker "
transit the
Said.
The two ships will be financially treated as follows:
1. Dues are calculated at the rate of USD
0.10/barrel and collected for the total
volume of cargo carried by the two ships.
2. The two ships are duly exempted from the charge of escorting
tugboats while
transiting the canal.
3. Once the cargo has been reloaded back onto the super tanker,
the smaller tanker
is exempted from the transit dues of the return ballast trip,
provided that the
ship gets back directly as the job is completed and has not been
involved in any
commercial business or activity, except for similar operations
performed in the
opposite direction.
4.7.2 Addendum to SCA Circular 3/99
regarding STS operations
The company should include key personnel that have over 5 years of
extensive
experience in STS operations, which are conducted on anchor or
underway.
STS superintendents (mooring masters) should be master mariners
with "all tonnage
foreign-going" license that is IMO recognized.
Page 30 of 31
STS superintendents (mooring masters) who conduct the operation
should have over
5 years of extensive experience in on anchor or underway STS
operations with
similar size and tonnage of such vessels.
Company has to comply with the following:
• Mooring equipment guideline (OCIMF)
• International safety guide for oil tankers and terminals
• (isgott/isc/ocimf/iaph)
• International regulations for preventing collisions at sea (IMO)
• Standard marine communication phrases (IMO)
• Recommendations for oil tanker manifolds & associated equipment
• (OCIMF)
• International convention on standards of training certification
and watch-keeping
(1995) and STCW code IMO guidelines for
handling storage, inspection and testing
of hoses in the field (OCIMF)
4.8 Passenger Vessels Rebate
4.8.1 Circular no. 1/1981
Rebates to be given to passenger ships, cruise ships and yachts of
not less than 300
Passenger ships, cruise ships and yachts of not less than 300
shall be given the
following rebates:
50% reduction on normal transit dues for each leg of the round
trip for ships
that call on either
Egyptian or foreign
provided that the ship's
duration of stay at the Egyptian ports is less than 72
hours.
However, in case the duration of stay at Egyptian ports is less
than 72 hours
but within the minimum of 36 hours, the reduction shall be
calculated in the
following manner:
50% x the number of hours at Egyptian ports
---------------------------------------------------
72
Not less than half the ship’s duration of stay at Egyptian ports
should be
spent at
For the rebate on the return trip to be granted, the return trip
should be
made within a maximum of one month from the date of transit. In
all cases,
the transit dues shall be collected in full upon transit from
either north or
Page 31 of 31
south entrance. The rebate amounts shall be refunded whenever the
following documents are duly submitted:
An authenticated certificate from each Egyptian port of call
showing date and
time of arrival and departure of the subject ship and stating that
the ship was
solely involved in tourist activities and that no goods loading or
unloading
operations, as far as this ship is concerned, were handled at such
port.
All Communications to be made through
our Head Office at
Seabird Marine Services (Port Office)
Address:
1st Floor, Unit 22
Contact Person:
Marketing & Commercial Manger - Mohamed Khalifa
Telephone: 0020 122 409 6457
E-mail: seabird@seabird-marine.com
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