National Ports Act, 2005 (Act No. 12 of 2005)RulesPorts RulesChapter 2 : Vessel Movements and Related MattersPart C : Requirements for Entering a Port19. Procedures to approach and enter a port if there are vessels in tow |
| (1) | If the vessel intending to enter a port has one or more vessels in tow, then the notice of arrival referred to in rule 18 must disclose — |
| (a) | the number of vessels being towed and the total length of the tow, which is the distance from the forepart of the towing vessel to the after-part of the last vessel under tow; |
| (b) | the method of towing; |
| (c) | whether the towing vessel or any vessel being towed is unseaworthy; |
| (d) | whether auxiliary power Is available on the vessel or vessels under tow; |
| (e) | if auxiliary power is available on the vessel or vessels under tow, the extent of the power available and whether it is sufficient for working the main engine, steering gear, deck machinery and lowering or heaving the anchors of the vessel or vessel under tow; |
| (f) | the crew complement on board the towing vessel and the vessel under tow; |
| (g) | whether any of the vessel in tow are tankers, and if so, whether the tankers are gas free; |
| (h) | what quantity of fuel and lubricating oil is on board the towing vessel; |
| (i) | what quantity and type of fuel and lubricating oil is on board any vessel in tow and where such fuel and oil is located; |
| (j) | what means of radio communication is available to the master of the towing vessel; |
| (k) | whether the vessel or vessels in tow can be disconnected and handed over to another tug at sea; and |
| (I) | any other details which may affect the safety, security, good order and the protection of the environment in the port. |
| (2) | Unless the Harbour Master directs otherwise, the towing vessel and the vessel or vessels in tow must request the Harbour Master for permission to enter the port at a position no closer than 12 nautical miles to seaward. |
| (3) | Unless the Harbour Master directs otherwise, a vessel engaged in a towage or a salvage service may not enter the VTS zone. |