This large commercial port is a crossroads for sea based commerce located at the southern end of the Red Sea. After a long period of unrest due to piracy activity around the Horn of Africa, the port is now opening up to visiting yachts.
*The Maritime Security Transit Corridor (MSTC) was established to improve security by concentrating naval and military efforts along a defined and monitored route. The IRTC is now integrated into the MSTC, which also includes the Bab el-Mandeb Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS), the TSS west of the Hanish Islands, and a connecting two-way route. More at Maritime Security Transit Corridor (MSTC) – Combined Maritime Forces.
Cruisers recommend that after leaving the MSTC* at point A (11°54.095'N 45°0.010'E), aim for way point 11°46.350'N 43°8.499'E north of Iles Moucha and follow the recommended track on Navionics.
If arriving at night, anchor 6NM outside the port at the islands and proceed into the port at daylight. There are a number of unlit moorings that are difficult to see at night on the approaches to the port.
If heading north to the Red Sea and the Suez Canal, the advice is to wait for winds to calm down in Bab el Mandeb before leaving Djibouti. Often winds average 25+ kts gusting 40+kts in this area. Stay on the west side just outside the shipping lane and follow the westerly route (south of the Hanish Islands). Caution is advised close to Position: 13°22.644'N 42°34.859'E.
Eritrea, Yemen and Sudan are still considered areas to be stay away from due to ongoing internal conflict. See the Reports section for latest information from cruisers who have sailed this route in 2023.
This is a useful port to stop for fuel and re-provisioning before heading north. There are big French supermarkets with everything including alcohol. While it may be necessary to use an agent for clearance processes, it is possible to do it yourself if you have time and patience.
Position:
11°35'57" N, 043°07'56" E (anchorage)
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