Al Qusayr (EGAQU)

Quseir is an alternative name for Kosseir, see Al Qusayr.

Tropical.

Al Qusayr, also known as Kosseir, is located 42nm S of Safaga port, on the W shore of the Red Sea.

Waiting area: A designated waiting area is established, centred about 1.5nm offshore at the WSW end of the approach sector to Al Qusayr. Outer anchorage: There is an open anchorage on a bank in depths of approx 27.0m, which lies in the SW part of the waiting area. Due to the nature of the coral bottom the anchorage is not recommended. Inner anchorages: There is an anchorage close to the coastal reef with the transporter bearing 220° x 0.4nm. It has moderate holding with sand and coral bottom. This anchorage cannot be used at night. Anchorage may also be obtained 0.3nm E of the transporter in depths of 22.0m, soft sand. The anchorages are practically unsheltered and the holding ground is reported not to be good. SE winds do not blow here as strongly as in the open sea but a heavy swell rolls in during bad weather. The nearest sheltered anchorage is at Safaga.

Approach: From a position about 12nm WSW of Al Qusayr (The Brothers) (26°19'N 034°51'E) the approach is through the designated approach sector to the waiting area. Caution: The coast S of Al Qusayr as far as Ras Baghdadi (26°40'N 035°06'E) is fringed by reefs in places on which stand some dangerous rocks. Numerous other dangers lie up to 6nm offshore. Prohibited area: Navigation is prohibited by the Egyptian authorities for all ships outside of the designated approach sector to Al Qusayr or the designated waiting area. Gebel Gihaniya, bearing 250°, leads towards the anchorages.

BA 3043. Admiralty Pilot NP64.

The pilot boards at a position 2nm off the port. Pilotage is compulsory. The pilot remains onboard while the vessel is in port. The pilot will not board until pratigue has been granted.

Landmarks: Gebel Quseir (26°08'N 034°14'E), 3nm NW of the town is 135m in height. Gebel Gihaniya (26°05'N 034°14'E), 2.5nm WSW of the town is 217m in height. The peak is not easy to identify from the S. Both hills have cairns on their summits. The phosphate works and a conveyor belt, standing 0.3nm N of the town, are conspicuous. A water tower, 55m in height, close N of the town is conspicuous. Two radio masts (37m in height) standing close N of the town, are prominent.

The port is open for movements during daylight hours only.

Range 0.6m (springs), 0.4m (neaps).

One tug for vessel pilotage during entry, departure and mooring.

A N or NW wind rises at approx 0500hrs and increases to 11-20kts at about 1100hrs, decreasing to calm at night.

Vessels proceeding to Al Qusayr should report to the Egyptian authorities at least 24 hours prior to their arrival. The message should advise the expected time of arrival at a position 2nm off the port.

Harbour regulations require that main engines must remain on 2 hours notice.