FAQ

How can pilotage services be arranged for a vessel?

A pre-arrival notification must be submitted to the relevant authorities, including a harbor pilotage request. 

The final ETA should be confirmed two hours prior to arrival at the pilot boarding ground (07° 05.0`N / 072° 57.0`E) on VHF channel 10. 

What is the length overall (LOA) and draught restrictions? 

There are no LOA or draught restrictions. The designated anchorage and navigable channel, including the entrance, have depths ranging from 45 to 50 meters and are free from obstructions and coral heads. 

Is there a mandatory pilotage service? 

Pilotage is mandatory for all inbound and outbound vessels, including bunker ships, bunker barges, and any other movements within designated harbor waters. 

Pilot boarding arrangements must comply with SOLAS regulations. 

What is the type of seabed for vessels anchoring? 

The seabed is composed of corals, seashells, sand etc., classifying it as a grade 2 seabed for anchors to hold. 

What are the monsoons conditions affecting the anchorage? 

During June to August, the Southwest-Westerly monsoon brings heavy rain and wind speeds up to Force 6 on the Beaufort scale. In these conditions, vessels will hold steady with 9 to 11 shackles for larger ships and 7 to 9 shackles for smaller ships. The North-East monsoon, prevailing from December to March, is typically dry with lower wind force and does not significantly affect ships at anchorage. 

 Pilotage services are provided by highly skilled and experienced pilots. 

What is included in the crew change service? 

UMS provides speed boat services for crew changes upon request from agents, including general transport services. 

Ship owners, charterers, operators, masters, and agents can arrange for speed boat services for crew members to go ashore, subject to the necessary permissions from the relevant authorities. 

How can the supply of provisions be requested? Should UMS be informed of the requirements in advance? 

Masters should request provisions and space through the agent to UMS at least 2 to 3 days in advance. 

How does UMS facilitate bunkering operations? 

Bunkering services are provided by the State Trading Organization (STO) Plc. However, as mentioned, mandatory pilotage services will be provided by the UMS. 

How does UMS provide the supply of fresh water? 

Supply of fresh water will be provided by water barges of 90 metric ton capacity. The barge will be towed from shore to the ship upon arrival with a rate of delivery of 35 to 40 metric tons per hour. 

Where can a yacht be docked at UMS? 

Docking services for pleasure yachts are available at H.A Ihavandhoo. The skipper can arrange for long-term docking services, allowing the yacht to remain securely docked until the owners return. 

What is the process for requesting tug services? 

Tug services for bunkering operations are provided by KPL to STO (Bunker Service Provider). Ship masters can request additional tug services through their agent to KPL for services beyond bunkering. 

What is covered under marine salvage services? 

UMS can provide salvage and towage services up-to limited extent provided due notification is served to UMS through the agent with detailed information. In addition, maritime casualty services are provided with the help of Maldives Coast Guard as a joint operation. 

Distress, Urgency and Safety situations such as medical evacuation etc. are dealt by the Maldives Maritime Rescue Coordination Center (MRCC), which operates 24hrs, and Maldives Coast Guard. 

What types of lubricating, hydraulic and other oils are provided by UMS? 

Lubrication oils can be supplied upon request with a 5 to 7-day advance notification. Following Lubricants are available: Castrol, Caltex and Rotella 

Following Hydraulic oil and Turbo Charger oil are available: T-68 and SP-122 (high spin)