 Kuala Belait : Profile
This port is close to the western border of Brunei. It is the second largest town in Brunei and is situated at the mouth of the Belait River.
There is a bar off the entrace to the port with a dredged channel through it. This is well buoyed however is not frequently dredged. Cruisers reported the following depths in August 2010: A least depth of 0.7 metres over the bar at low water. A least depth of 2.1 metres over the bar at high water.
Correct position for the entrance is 04° 36.2’N, 114°10.3’E.
Last updated August 2010
Prior to entry, when off the breakwaters at Kuala Belait call Belait Port Control on Ch 15 and request entry. At the same time ask the Port Official about available depth over the bar.
If arriving out of hours you can anchor in the South West corner of the quarantine anchorage. Keep a sharp lookout for Oil Industry Support vessels returning to Port here as dusk approaches and the car ferry. Note that the flare that helps mark the entrance, and is mentioned in the pilot book, is currently not lit.
Once anchored or moored you can take the dinghy to the Kuala Belait Boat Club and walk into town.
All the necessary offices are in the large multi-storey building on the waterfront. Go left on the ground floor for Port Clearance and you will be directed from there.
When checking in ask for your departure paperwork to fill out ahead of time. When checking out with Customs and Immigration you will need to return to the Marine Department and the Port Department to deliver copies of your clearance papers. Also, Customs will want a Cargo Manifest which can just say "nil".
Last updated September 2010.
Entrance is narrow but straightforward as this is an oil support base, but be very aware of the number of support vessels returning late in the evening - they are unlikely to take any notice of a yacht!
Best anchorage is upstream of the support vessels, opposite the yacht club. Beware of large floating islands of vegetaion as well as logs being swept along by the tide.
If unable to enter this port, a possible alternative overnight anchorage could be just inside the private marina at Jerudong (approx. 04°57’.6 N, 114°48’.5 E). It is very sheltered and the holding is good in mud, but you could be asked to move on as it is private.
Last updated September 2010.
Facilities and meals are available at the Yacht Club and a fee may be required for use of the dinghy dock and facilities. Fuel and water can be also arranged here. The club welcomes visitors.
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