Limbe (CMLIM)

The Port of Victoria, also referred to as Limbe, is a roadstead port located along the southwestern coast of Cameroon. It plays a significant role in supplementing the seaport of Douala, due to the severe congestion and increased operational costs as a result of the sediment accumulation that necessitates regular dredging for ship berthing. Located along the coast, the port features a small pier utilised by local traders who handle a variety of products. Cargoes handled include cocoa, palm oil, palm kernel, rubber products, coffee beans, bananas, tea, and black pepper. The port is equipped with two self-propelled craft and several lighters, which are towed by a tug. A managing director was appointed in 2022 to oversee the transitional administration at the Port Authority of Limbe, marking a departure from the previous governance under the Port Authority of Douala. This change aligns with a Presidential decree issued on May 5, 2020, which outlined plans for the construction of a deep seaport in Limbe. This new facility is expected to cater to specialised heavy products, particularly hydrocarbons, due to its proximity to the National Refining Company (Sonara). Additionally, the deep seaport will focus on agricultural exports, capitalising on the South West region's extensive banana plantations and cocoa production. As of February 2024, the government announced plans to consider the construction of the Limbe deep seaport in 2026, with an estimated project cost of CFA 400 billion. The development is projected to span five years, with significant backing from Egyptian investors (GIECO/EGAAD) who expressed their support for the initiative in December 2024. This ambitious project aims to enhance the port's capacity and operational efficiency, positioning Limbe as a key player in the region's maritime trade landscape.

Tropical.

The port of Victoria is situated approx 15nm W of Douala, Cameroon.

There are four safe anchorages in depths of 12-16m with good holding ground.

The main approach route to the roadstead, which leads NE, passes between Ambas Island and Mondoleh Island.

BA 1456, 1860. Admiralty Pilot NP2.

1025.

Not required, however, local knowledge is advised.

There are 2 white beacons, the front triangular shaped and the rear diamond shaped, which stands on the shore approx 0.15nm S of the ruined pier. These beacons, in line bearing 080°, lead through the boat channel to the inner harbour. Lighted beacons are used forming the approach range, however, these are reported to be obstructed when vessels are anchored in the roadstead. Additionally, other navigational aids are reported to not be visible during the night.

Range 2.5m. Between Ambas Island and the Pirate Islands, the flood current sets S and the ebb current sets N. These currents are of about equal duration and at times are strong in the vicinity of Ambras Island and Mondoleh Island. It is worth noting that between May and September a heavy surf and violent undertow will occur in the bay due to the fact that the swell rises quickly. As a result, the swell makes landing dangerous. The swell consists of two principal sections. One of these sections sets fairly constantly E between Ambas Island and the Pirate Islands. This section varies according to existing conditions. The second section enters from the S or SW between Ambas Island and Mondoleh Island. This section arises when the winds are fresh or after a local thunderstorm This latter part of the swell runs straight into Morton Bay, turning and combining with the usual swell from the W, and finally breaks on the rocks.

One available.

Prevailing winds: W'ly. After tornadoes, great care must be taken in navigating the channel, as the sea sometimes breaks right across it at long intervals and without warning.

All documents are to be signed and stamped. ..... Documents Copies 1. Crew List 5 2. Passenger List 5 3. Last Port of Call 5 4. Animal List 5 5. Dangerous Cargo List 5 6. Vaccination List 5 7. Narcotic List 5 8. Arms and Ammunition List 5 9. Crew Effects Declaration 5

Notify ETA 72, 48, 24 and 12 hours prior to arrival.