 Banjul : Profile
The average depth in the channel is 30 ft (9 m). Vessels should keep all buoys to starboard when entering. Port Control keeps a continuous watch on VHF Channel 16 on weekdays and should be contacted prior to arrival.
Yachts normally proceed to the government wharf for inspection by the various officials. There may be space for a yacht to come alongside at the new commercial dock. The captain should then visit the harbour master at the Port Authority building in Wellington Street, then immigration in Anglesea Street, Customs and finally Health.
Alternatively, anchor at Half Die and take your dinghy into the wharf. You have to tie up alongside a tug and will be accosted by "helpers". Refuse all help, it is easy to visit the offices - immigration (office is on left as you come over bridge from wharf), then customs and the port authority (ask for directions at security gate).
You will need to pay for your river permit and the tide tables are were very helpful. This must be paid in dalasi. (go up the road from the port gates and visit the ATM first).
There is an official fee for extending the 14 day standard stamp of 200 Dalarsi ($10 US - May 2008). However immigration officials may attempt to charge more, plus an inspection fee. Ensure you double check your passport stamp is correct.
Although the officials are very friendly, the formalities tend to be time-consuming and finding your way around is not easy. It has been recommended to hire a taxi and guide to do the rounds of the various offices.
The Gambia Yachting Association acts as an agent for visiting yachts and will approach yachts on arrival to offer their services with clearance formalities. The fee should be agreed in advance.
It is not necessary to have your yacht anchored off Banjul port to clear out. It is possible to take your documents by road from Lamin Lodge, for example.
Note that Customs do not hold blank copies of clearance certificates - these must be obtained in advance from one of the shipping companies.
Updated May 2009.
Gambia Port Authority
Liberation Avenue, P O Box 617, Banjul
Tel:227266, 229940, Fax:227268
gamport@gamtel.gm
Opening Hours: 8:00 to 16:00
Anchorage: for clearing in/out anchorage is at Half Dike, by Banjul Pier.
Shelter is usually adequate.
For a longer stay, the best place is at Lamin Lodge (13.23.637N 16.37.562W). It is a very sheltered spot in the mangroves, with a bar/restaurant and dinghy dock. It's a bit of a walk to the main road, but then catching a bush taxi to do the shopping is no problem.
Taking up (for a fee) of an offer to show you around is worth doing, as it is a difficult place to find your way about on a first visit.
Go all the way up to Georgetown (furthest point possible) on the river, the best areas are above Baboon Island.
The Gambia Sailing Club in Banjul has some sailing enthusiasts who organise regular races and will help visitors if needed.
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