Explore: Djibouti
General Info
This large commercial port is a crossroads for sea base commerce. However, political unrest in this area and the activity of pirates around the Horn of Africa, make this area a security concern so appropriate precautions should be taken.
Many yachts stop here to top up on fuel and re-provision before heading North.
Position 11°35’57” N, 043°07’56” E (anchorage)
Clearance
See Noonsite/Djibouti/Formalities page for the full details.
Last updated: February 2019
Docking
Arriving at Night
If arriving here 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.
The Djibouti Navy operates on VHF Ch. 16.
Port Control operates on VHF Ch. 12.
Anchoring Options
It may be possible to anchor inside the Port (see photo above courtesy of SY Alytes who visited in 2016). Good holding in mud at about 4.5m (N 11°35,953 043°07,908).
Alternatively, you may be directed to anchor between the old “Yacht Club” building and the Port de Peche. The Yacht Club of Djibouti is now closed and the building is used by the Guard Nationale.
There is a charge to anchor here (see prices reported by cruisers in comments at bottom of page).
Getting Ashore
On request, dinghies can be safely left at the red and white Coast Guard dock on the north-western end of the fishing harbour. If you leave your dinghy in the fishing harbour itself, tie it up near the concrete ramp. A local guy sleeps under one of the boats stored there and will keep an eye on it for a fee.
Last updated: February 2019
