As a multifunction harbour, the Port of Walvis Bay can offer a range of specialised berthing facilities and every kind of support facility.

Location
GPS Coordinates S22°56’08’’ E014°29’07’’.

Pilotage
The port is a compulsory pilotage area. Requests for pilots need to be directed to the Port Captain prior to arrival.

Entrance Channel
Length 5.2 Nautical Miles, Width 134m, Depth –14m CD

Lighthouse
The Pelican Point lighthouse is fully automated.

Port Control Service
Port Control directs all shipping movements within port limits. It keeps a 24-hour VHF radio watch on channel 16, and works on channel 12 and 14. A Vessel Traffic Control System was implemented in 2004.

Divers
Professional diving services are available on request through the Port Captain.

Bunkering
Fuel is provided via pipeline at Berths 1–5, and by road transport for other berths. Bunker fuel transfers in the inner anchorage are subject to prior approval by the Marine Division of the Department of Transport and the Port Captain, and are monitored.

Waste
Only garbage disposal is available.

Medical Facilities
On-site clinics and a state hospital – the latter also offering dental facilities – are available in Walvis Bay. Special cases can be treated in Windhoek, which is 400km inland.

Water
Fresh water can be supplied at any quay at a rate of 15t an hour (maximum of four hoses per vessel).Water can also be supplied by tug, but this requires the Port Captain’s prior approval. Walvis Bay experiences water shortages from time to time, and limitations on water supply may be imposed.

Harbour Response
Fire brigade services are available on a 24-hour basis. Access to the harbour is controlled with 24 hour security.

Anchorage
Ships anchor within port limits, and are protected by the bay.

Weather
No weather delays.

Crafts / Towage
Tug assistance is normally required. The port has two firefighting tractor tugs of 31t and 27t bollard pull. There are also two first-class Azimuth-propelled tractor tugs, with bollard pulls of 28t and 23t, respectively. The port boasts two first-class Azimuthpropelled pusher tugs of 12t and 10t bollard pull, respectively. These vessels are Schottel-propelled for maximum manoeuvrability. One passenger launch is used, and is certified to carry 30 passengers. There is also a grab dredger/anchor-handling barge with an 80m³ self-propelled hopper.

Marine Services Hours
Working hours:

Mondays to Fridays 06h00–22h00

Saturdays 06h00–12h00,

Sundays and public holidays 08h00–12h00 and 13h00–17h00.
Overtime is available on request.