Explore: Bizerte
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General Info
COVID19: OPEN PORT
- Tunisia’s borders opened on 27 June, 2020.
- Depending on where you come from, entry requirements will vary.
- See Biosecurity for more details.
Description:
Situated on the Northern coast of Tunisia, Bizerte is its oldest city, but sadly rather run down and in need of some cosmetic work. It is defended from the sea by a double kasbah (fort) that is in perfect shape despite it being 400 years old (the original structure dates back to Byzantine times).
If on a Med passage Westwards and facing SW-NW winds having rounded Cape Bon, this port is a welcome haven which offers good shelter now that the marina has re-opened.
Bizerte is 45 minutes by fast motorway from Tunis airport.
Entrance Notes and Cautions:
Arriving into the bay where Bizerte is located in the Southwest corner you will find some shelter from swell, but are likely to encounter strong gusts that blow down the western hills. There is a stand-alone breakwater in front of the entrance to the harbour allowing for entry from the east or west. The big ships using the harbour enter through the eastern gap using a tug. Entereing through the western gap you may encounter some shoaling but not less than 3.5m. There is a noticeable current flowing out of the entrance. The water is deeper in the western gap closer to the standalone breakwater.
Watch out for unmarked fishing nets and gear off the entrance.
The marina channel to the west of the main channel is well marked. It’s likely a marina person will come out to meet you in a small boat and instruct you on where to tie up.
Position:
37°16’31″N, 09°53’38″’E (harbor entrance)
Clearance
See Tunisia Formalities for full details on clearing into and out of Tunisia.
As a port of entry, there are Customs and Immigration offices on the main marina quay. Customs and Immigration officials however usually visit the yacht and are reported to be friendly and helpful. You may be asked for a “gift”.
Contact officials the night before departure. Only Immigration will want to stamp your passports.
Cruisers report no charge for clearing in or out.
Last updated May 2017.
Docking
Marina
The marina here was badly damaged in a storm in February 2006. Since then, a major redevelopment of the marina and surrounding area was undertaken, expanding the size of the marina and improving the services on offer. The marina, however, still appears “unfinished” with limited facilities.
Yachts must notify the marina prior to arrival. The entrance to the marina is marked with red and green lights at night – the green light on the head of N breakwater while the red light is on the head of Jetty 4. Keep clear of Jetty 4 (outer side) due to shallow waters (marked with orange buoys).
New arrivals are put on the long north/south wall around from the fuel dock.
Anchoring
Anchoring off the marina here is not advisable in an onshore wind, as the long fetch between the breakwater and shore can create a large, dangerous swell.
Fishing Harbour
Yachts can also berth in the old fishing harbour outside the main entrance on the port hand side (alongside a fishing boat most likely). This is very sheltered. Fuel and water are available here through a local agent. It is possible to walk from here to the old town, albeit through some rather “unsavoury” neighbourhoods.
Last updated: May 2018
Related Businesses
Bizerte Marina (Port de Plaisance Bizerte)
Address: Bizerte, Tunisia,
The marina is located in the outer harbour. Fuel berth, visitors pontoon, internet (via a pay as you go dongle from the office), toilets and... Read More
Port Director – Bizerte
Address: Bizerte, Tunisia,
Mourad Chamari.... Read More
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