Implementation of shore-based mooring services and new tariff structure in the Suez Canal

The Suez Canal Authority (SCA), on 10 March 2024, issued circular No. (1/2024) announcing shore-based mooring services starting May 1st, 2024, with mooring boats distributed along the canal.

Only 30% of ships in the convoy will have onboard mooring services, chosen by SCA based on criteria such as windage area, Gross Tonnage (GT), draft, and inter-ship distances.

If a selected ship refuses or is unable to have the mooring service onboard, an additional fee of USD 5,000 will be charged instead of imposing a tugboat, as per Article 20, page 36 of the SC Rules of Navigation.

Certain vessels, such as U.S. warships, will have specific protocols for mooring services, while others, like towed units and special units, must have mooring services onboard or be escorted by imposed tugboats if unable to comply.

A new tariff for mooring and lighting services will be implemented, with ships paying USD 3,500 for mooring and lighting services. Additional fees may apply for inadequate searchlights or electric connections, and vessels may face additional charges from the second transit if connections don't comply with SC Rules of Navigation.

This circular will be enforced from May 1st, 2024, according to the signed declaration by the SCA.

For more information, please see the document below (available only to subscribers):

Starting from May 1st 2024, mooring service will be shore-based service, providing that the mooring boats will be distributed along the canal