Red Sea and Suez Canal Transit: 2002 Report

Created by doina. Last modified on 2003-12-04 10:13:13
Contributors: Jez Searle, s/y Sea Hawk,
Countries: Djibouti, Egypt, Eritrea, Saudi Arabia, Yemen

Hi Noonsite,

Latest news from the Red Sea for you!

I have finally arrived in Port Fouad, to an immense feeling of celebration as the long haul is now over. And then again, looking back it really wasn't as bad I expected!

The only really awful part of the trip was arriving in Jeddah with gearbox problems and being confined to the yacht as I would not pay $1000 for the agent's fees & shore pass.

The total nautical miles sailed came to 2100 from Aden, which equates with the time honoured theory of sailing to windward being plus 40% to the voyage. Actual sailing time was approx 24 days most of which were without using the engine at all.

The weather is always (or 95% of the time) clear skies, sunshine with wind from the north North east or north West around 80% of the time. Wind strength varied, with S Red Sea to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, being the area of the most strength average around 18/ 28kts. The convergence zone began in Masawa and stretched northward for approx 60/70nm. In the Northern area I found that the wind blew hard for two days at a time after which generally a calm or very light wind followed for a period of perhaps 12/ 24 hours.

The dreaded Straits of Gubal and onward to Suez I broke up with overnights at various anchorages including Bluff Point, Ras Shukier and Marsa Thelemet all of which are approx 30/ 40nm apart, easy to approach and offering fair to excellent shelter. So this too became relatively easy if not loads of fun.

I would heartily reccomend to anyone to stop off at Abu Tig marina, EL Gouna, north of Hurgarda which offers a European relief to weeks (or months) of Arabia. Once you' ve been to this region you will understand fully! Highlights of Abu Tig were a free month for voyagers staying over ten days, mechanics who know about yachts, a chandlery with European/ American equipment (they will supply additional parts etc by order) an array of Restaurants and bars which would grace any Mediteranean coastal resort. Speaking of which don't miss Jobos for Italian cuisine/ Burgers etc, or pool, beer and frivolity late into the night at the Sandbar. Getting around El Gouna is easy with around the clock every 15/ 20 mins shuttles which cost $2US unlimted use for seven days - cheap!

Comming into Suez, I had to anchor off the canal entrance until 1800 to allow the southbound convoy to clear the channel. Then mooring at Suez Y.C. in the dark was made easier by the kind assistance of the Y.C. staff. Bear in mind they only have a rowing dinghy (no money for an outboard) so be patient with him and their lack of speed! The Suez Y.C. is a run down affair, and only worth a nights stop prior to transit. Cost $8US. Shopping in the immediate area is good and cheap. I chose to make the Prince of The Red Sea my agent. Prince and Housan (his able assistant) took me to the supermarket and outdoor vegetable market by car, then all over Suez by bus. They also arranged some courtesy flags to be made and were very helpful. They both speak excellent English. The Prince is a man of great charm in an "Old World " sense; and I enjoyed meeting him. I also enjoyed the cakes he brought me for breakfast on arrival! Reports on the agents vary, but I can reccomend to everyone to use the Prince as the service provided is excellent and the price competitive with any other. Contact them prior to arrival by email and your papers will all be arranged in advance.

The transit was as follows:

Port Suez Fees $30/ Transit Fee $255/ Agency Fee $80 (US Dollars). The transit fee varies depending on the size of your yacht (length/ beam and draft play a strange part in some bizarre calculation which no one could explain). A measurement inspector came to the yacht and made the calculations. He did not appear interested in spare anchors/ fire extinguishers or horns engine speed etc.

Day One. Baksheesh to the Pilot (very nice guy but knew little about yachts) was a packet of cigarettes and $10US. Naturally he was appalled and asked for more, but accepted the fact that nothing more was forthcoming quickly without a scene. I left with the convoy at 1030, arrived Ismalia YC at 1800. Favourable currents at 2kts on the rising tide for 30km.

Ismalia YC is still under renovation/ construction, though showers and drinking water and electricity are included in the $7 per night charge. Long stay available for $100 p. c. m. Very safe and 100% secure with Eygptian police and army guarding the place. Buy fuel with Jerry jugs from Mobil station open 24 hours for 12 US cents per litre including taxi. The YC can loan jugs if required! Shopping here is also good and even cheaper, though time is limited on a two day transit.

Day Two. I departed at 0730 whilst the convoy was still heading South. This did not cause any trouble, minimal wash from the container ships and plenty of room for all. I paid the same Backsheesh and received a small smile and no arguments from the pilot. I arrived at Port Fouad at 1730.

Port Fouad YC is better than I expected from the guide books. Sure, the finger piers are dilapadated and there is a wash from the canal traffic, but nothing to cause any concern or loss of sleep! The staff are very helpful and friendly. Expert in taking lines from a single hander (me). Cost $10 per night. No port fees or agency fees required. Security is very good with two around the clock police and the marinas own security staff. Moxin the manager is a very conversational chap.

Awaiting the passing of the depression prior to heading across the med,

Regards,

JEZ/ Winter Hawk (2002)