Matanzas (VEMTV)

The port operator, SIDOR C.A. ceased its steelmaker production operation after national blackout earlier 2019 but port still received vessel calling for cargo handling. Matanzas serves a steel works, which imports iron ore and limestone; steel in various forms is exported.

Tropical.

Matanzas also known as Sidor is situated on the S bank, 194nm from the mouth of the River Orinoco.

Max draught 7.9m, beam 32.2m, 63,073DWT.

Anchorage can be obtained approx 1nm downstream from the quay. Vessels awaiting berth may anchor N of Punta Cuchillo, or in mid-channel close above the berth.

BA3320. Admiralty Pilot NP7A, NP286(7).

1000.

Compulsory pilotage for river transit, Docking Master boards 2km before Matanzas.

Draught restrictions vary due to seasonal changes; Dry season Dec-May depths up to 10.0m; rainy season Jun-Nov depths up to 13.0m.

Compulsory, two tugs available.

Prevailing winds: E'ly.

MATANZAS 08°17'N 62°51'W See Pilot Requirements Puerto Ordaz

It is recommended to use Mobile Radio, Curacao Radio, Portishead Radio or Maritex for passing messages. Inmarsat communication is possible. VHF: Ch 16, 14, 13, 06.

Customs allowances: An allowance is made for approx 5 days of cigarettes and alcohol out of bond. The bond is sealed after the vessel's clearance. Additional allowances may be made on request to the Customs authorities. Bonded items are not allowed to be taken ashore. Penalty is confiscation and a possible fine. Immigration: Issue shore passes that are valid for 72 hours.

..... Copies Port Captain: 1. - 2. - 3. - a. Official Number - b. International Tonnage Certificate - c. Safety Construction Certificate - d. Certificate of Registry - e. Safety Equipment Certificate - f. Oil Pollution Certificate - g. Load Line Certificate - h. Radio Telegraphy Certificate - i. Liferaft Certificates - 4. - 5. 1 Sanitary (Health): 1. 1 2. 1 3. 1 4. 1 National Guard: 1. 1 2. 1 3. 1 4. 1 5. 1 6. 1 Customs: 1. 2 2. 2 3. 1 4. 1 5. 1 Immigration: 1. 1 2. 1 Customs and Harbour Master's clearance are prepared and delivered onboard by the agent prior to vessel's departure. Cargo documents such as Bills of Lading, Quality and Quantity Certificates, Certificates of Origin, etc are prepared/released by terminal operators. These documents are presented to the Master prior to departure for his signature.

Initial ETA to be sent 72 hours prior to vessel's arrival to agent. Additional ETA's to be sent 48 and 24 hours prior to arrival or if a difference in ETA of more than 6 hours occurs after the last ETA message. ETA message should include the following information: ETA at pilot station, Master's name, last port, ballast condition, last 3 cargoes, arrival/departure draught and arrival/sailing displacement.

The national ensign of Venezuela should be displayed in port. Vessels not complying will receive orders from the National Guard to stop cargo operations. A written report will be requested prior to cargo operations recommencing.

Pratique and Custom's clearance can only be granted on arrival either at anchorage or on completion of berthing. Vessels coming from ports which have cholera will not be allowed to deballast overboard. A sanitary inspection is performed at the pilot station prior to entering port. Ship Sanitation Control and Exemption Certificates can be renewed.

NOR is tendered in accordance with the Charter Party. The normal place for tendering NOR is on arrival at the anchorage or all fast at the berth.