Explore: Kourou
General Info
Kourou lies about 20nm north-west of Cayenne
The entrance channel is shallow but well buoyed. Recommended to enter at high water, slack tide. Be aware of the current that will set you to port (west) at the entrance of the river when you leave.
Location 5° 09’N, 52° 37’30″W (river entrance).
Clearance
See French Guiana Formalities for detailed clearance information.
Customs and immigration are not easily found in the industrial area of the main harbour. As local public transport or taxies are not available you will have to try your luck at getting a ride.
The customs office is on Rue de Charles de Gaulle. Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months. The friendly officer will make a copy of your passport(s) and ship’s papers. The procedure is quick, simple and free of charge. See this report for detailed directions to the office.
Last updated March 2013.
Docking
One possible anchorage is just inside the river mouth on the North Shore, in front of the Club Nautique de Korou (CNK), clear of the moorings, by the Hotel de Roche.
There are also tidal anchorages up the river. Beware of the strong stream, running at up to 4 knots and make sure you avoid any danger from large vessels by anchoring well out of the channel.
The further up the river you go, the more sheltered the anchorage. The anchorage off the Yacht Club at buoy 17 reportedly dries out and is very shallow. Deeper water further out is exposed to the prevailing wind and in the full force of the tide.
Further upstream at buoy 21 is much better, this is a good sheltered anchorage closer to the town, with a dinghy dock and water from the marina pontoons. This marina always seems to be full with local boats, but an alongside berth might be possible for essential work. Fuel, provisioning and internet facilities (in the bar opposite the post office) are all not far up the marina access road. There is a Friday fresh produce market.
Mixed reports have been received re. holding, however the bottom is mud and rocks. It’s recommended to check your anchor is secure and, if possible, put out two anchors allowing for the tidal flow.
Last updated February 2013.
Related Businesses
Port Authority – Kourou
Address: French Guiana,
Tel: 0594 320 042
VHF Channel 16... Read More
Yacht Clubs
The yacht club is a helpful and friendly place. They will ask you for the modest fee of about 1.5 Euro/day/person for the use of the clubs facilities, including a good workshop, BBQ facilities, a bar and limited fresh water.
