Red Sea Outlook

Red Sea © noonsite.com

At this time of year yachts are busy transiting the Red Sea in both directions. While many abandoned their plans due to the on-going instability in the Bab al-Mandab Strait, several yachts have transited the route recently without incident. Sailing catamaran “5Oceans” gives us their report.

Good news from Egypt where the North to South transit of the Suez Canal has just become cheaper. The obligatory port clearance fee of almost US$1000 at Port Said has now been removed completely. The Red Sea Ports Authority do have a history of suddenly substantially increasing the costs of port clearance for yachts, the last being in January 2024 when southbound port clearance was increased from US$265 to US$900-1000. It's not known how long this "no fee" situation will last for, so be sure to check with your agent on the latest fees prior to arranging a transit.

This article has been provided by the courtesy of noonsite.com.