Saldanha Bay - Bio Security

Where is Saldanha Bay?

This is a busy commercial harbour and a major port for exporting iron ore.  It is about 60NM north of Cape Town, adjacent to the West Coast National Park, on the northern side of a large, deep bay. The breakwater and hills here have created a very sheltered harbour in the NW of the port for fishing boats and yachts.

Entrance Notes and Cautions:

At least 15 minutes prior to entering the Saldanha VTS zone, inform Port Control on VHF Channel 12 and request permission to enter the port. When passing a reporting point, as indicated on the SAN Charts, inform Port Control via VHF accordingly.

West Coast: Saldanha Bay leading light not operational (17 April 2024)

Cruiser Highlights for Saldahna Bay:

In July 2024, South Africa's Dept of Home Affairs and Border Management Authority authorised Saldahna Bay to operate as a Port of Entry/Exit for South Africa.

Many circumnavigating yachts wanting to leave South Africa will now be able to leave Cape Town and sail to Saldahna, explore that area and then clear out there instead of having to return to Cape Town to undertake clearance formalities there.

Lots of repair and refit facilities here including yards offering haul-out facilities, GRP repair work, sanding, marine cabinetry, engines, Stainless steel fabrications, solar etc, Electronics and instrumentation, Mast stepping and laydown, Rigging and riggers, Cleaning and valeting services.

Position - bay entrance:

33°04'52"S,17°55'18"E

Last updated:  July 2024