South Africa – New Under Keel Clearance Requirement in Durban

Club Correspondents, P&I Associates (Pty) Ltd., Durban have been notified by Durban Port Authority of a change in the minimum Under Keel Clearance (UKC) that vessels are required to maintain while alongside berths in Durban port. The minimum required UKC has been increased from 30 cm to 60 cm with immediate effect.

Any vessel with a draft exceeding 12.20 metres will be considered a tidal vessel and will have to apply for permission to berth. The vessel’s agent will need to make an application to the Harbour Master’s Office accompanied by a tidal calculation showing the vessel can safely berth and depart with an adequate UKC, and a completed Transnet Port Authority Indemnity Letter.

Members are advised to use the linked Transnet Port Authority Indemnity Letter, which has been amended to incorporate the statement “This indemnity is given subject to the owner's maximum liability under South African law and all rights and defences are reserved.” to limit their liability in the event of an incident.

Members requiring further guidance are advised to contact the Loss Prevention department.