USA

U.S. Notice of Arrival Requirements Strictly Enforced In Savannah

Reports from Savannah show that the U.S. Coast Guard there is strictly enforcing the Notice of Arrival (NOA) regulations. Since the beginning of this year cases have been brought against nine vessels calling at Savannah in respect of NOA violations.

Enforcement activity has involved witholding permission to enter port, delaying commencement of cargo operations, witholding clearance and even interrupting cargo operations and requiring a vessel to vacate a berth and return to sea.

Additionally, in each case the coast guard has demanded a Club Letter of Undertaking in the amount of $32,500 to be posted on behalf of the vessel.

It appears that the Coast Guard at Savannah are adopting a stricter approach than in other ports.

Vessels visiting U.S. ports are required to comply with the NOA regulations. Vessels calling at Savannah should be particularly conscientious in this regard in order to avoid delay and other enforcement proceedings.

With thanks to Hunter Maclean for supplying this information.