Aparri (PHAPR)

Aparri is the principal port in North Luzon and is a port of entry. Logs and lumber are exported from the port. The port accommodates small passenger craft plying between Batanes and Luzon Islands. It handles general cargo and petroleum products. The port is closed for commercial operations. Information for the port is retained should the port reopen.

Summer.

Aparri is located close to the mouth of Cagayan River, on the NW coast of Luzon Island.

River anchorage: The usual anchorage for vessels drawing 3.0m to 4.3m is in the E channel off the town of Aparri. Vessels drawing 4.3m to 6.1m anchor in the W channel opposite the town. However, as depths and channels in the river are constantly changing, advice on anchoring must be obtained from the pilot. Outer anchorages: The best anchorage outside the bar is in a depth of 18.3-21.9m, sand and mud, with Aparri church tower bearing 180° and Linao Point Light bearing 241°. The anchorage is very exposed to N winds.

The channel over the entrance bar usually has depths of 4.3m to 5.2m, but the depths are continually changing. Within its entrance the river is predominantly shallow with general depths of less than 3.0m and several drying sandbanks. There are some deep channels however, with depths of 5.5m to 7.3m. Shoals at the entrance are marked by stakes and makeshift navigational aids.

BA 989, 3804. Admiralty Pilot NP32.

Pilotage is compulsory. The Pilot Association (Aparri Pilot District) must be advised at least 24 hours prior to a vessel's arrival. Pilots are always in attendance when it is possible to enter. Vessels awaiting a pilot should keep 1nm to 2nm N of the Aparri church. The white pilot launches display the letter "P" at the bow, as well as the pilot flag. Advance notice of 24 hours is required for pilotage.

The port is bounded in the N by the Babuyan Channel, in the S by Appagonan River, in the E by Barangay San Antonio and in the W by Cagayan River.

Mean spring range about 1.1m, mean neap range about 0.4m.

Small tugs from 150-275hp available.

Tide-rips occur off the river mouth. During the NE monsoon the entrance bar is, at times, impassable and ships are obliged to seek shelter at Port San Vicente. Vessels caught within the bar have had to wait for a week or more for suitable conditions.

Ship Sanitation Control is possible.