1. Port and Terminal Information
1.1 Noshiro Port operates 24/7, but specific terminals may have restricted working hours based on cargo type and operator schedules. Confirm with Noshiro Port Authority in advance.
1.2 The main commercial terminals are:
– West Quay: General cargo, max LOA 190m, draft 9.5m
– East Quay: Bulk carriers, max LOA 220m, draft 11.0m
1.3 All terminals have bollards with SWL 50-150 tons. Mooring lines must be inspected by crew before use.
2. Navigation and Channel
2.1 The approach channel has a design depth of 12.0m (datum level), but actual depth must be verified via daily port notices due to sedimentation.
2.2 Mandatory VHF channels:
– Channel 16 for emergency
– Channel 12 for port communication
2.3 Maximum speed limit: 8 knots within port area, 5 knots near terminals.
3. Anchorage
3.1 Designated anchorage area at 40°12’30″N, 140°00’15″E with holding ground of mud/sand.
3.2 Anchorage depth 15-20m, but seabed surveys show occasional rocky patches. Recommend anchor watch with GPS alarm.
4. Pilotage
4.1 Compulsory for vessels >500 GT or LOA >50m. Request must be made 24h prior via agent.
4.2 Pilot boarding position: 1.5nm NE of port entrance (40°13’45″N 140°02’30″E).
5. Cargo Operations
5.1 For timber cargo: Strict compliance with IMO Code of Safe Practice for Ships Carrying Timber Deck Cargoes.
5.2 Grain loading: Dust suppression measures mandatory during operations.
5.3 Hazardous materials: Required documents must be submitted 72h before arrival.
6. Safety Regulations
6.1 Hot work permits require Port Authority approval after safety inspection.
6.2 Lifeboat drills prohibited while alongside except in genuine emergencies.
6.3 Mandatory AIS transmission within port limits.
7. Environmental Compliance
7.1 Zero discharge policy for bilge water/oily mixtures. Reception facilities available.
7.2 Use of open-loop scrubbers prohibited within 12nm of port.
8. Emergency Contacts
8.1 Port Control: VHF Ch 12 (call sign “Noshiro Port Control”)
8.2 MRCC Japan: +81 75 461 2880 (official 24/7 emergency number)
9. Special Notes
9.1 Winter operations (Dec-Mar): Ice accumulation on decks/moorings must be removed promptly.
9.2 Typhoon season: Vessels must follow Port Captain’s evacuation orders immediately.
9.3 Local currents can reach 3 knots during spring tides – account for this during berthing.
10. Port Services and Facilities
10.1 Freshwater supply available at all berths, max pressure 3.5 bar. Prior notice required for large quantities (>100 tons).
10.2 Bunkering: Only licensed suppliers permitted. Advance arrangement through agent mandatory.
10.3 Garbage disposal: Segregated waste reception available. No plastic incineration allowed onboard in port.
11. Customs and Immigration
11.1 Crew changes require 48h notice to Immigration Office via agent. No shore leave without valid visa.
11.2 Customs inspection may be conducted for high-risk cargo (e.g., steel, scrap metal).
12. Weather and Tidal Conditions
12.1 Prevailing winds: NW in winter, SE in summer. Sudden gusts possible in winter months.
12.2 Tidal range: 0.5m (neap) to 1.8m (spring). Current tables must be consulted for critical operations.
13. Mooring and Unmooring
13.1 Minimum 4 headlines and 4 stern lines required for vessels >150m LOA.
13.2 Tug assistance compulsory for vessels >10,000 DWT (2 tugs minimum).
14. Port Dues and Charges
14.1 Harbor dues calculated per GT. Discount available for eco-friendly ships (EIAPP certified).
14.2 Waste disposal fees based on actual quantity discharged (receipt required).
15. Security Measures
15.1 ISPS Level 1 implemented. Deck patrols required when alongside.
15.2 Unauthorized photography of port facilities prohibited.
16. Medical Support
16.1 Port clinic available for emergencies (basic first aid only). Serious cases transferred to Noshiro City Hospital.
16.2 COVID-19 protocols: Thermal screening for all disembarking personnel.
17. Local Regulations
17.1 Strict noise control 2200-0600 hrs (no horn/engine tests).
17.2 No ballast water exchange within port limits without prior approval.
18. Navigational Warnings
18.1 Fishing nets reported within 2nm NE of port entrance (seasonal hazard).
18.2 Unlit small craft frequent near harbor entrance – maintain sharp lookout.
19. Cargo Handling Equipment
19.1 Mobile cranes available up to 150-ton capacity (prior booking required).
19.2 Grain terminal equipped with pneumatic unloader (max 800 tons/hour).
19.3 Forklifts available up to 25-ton capacity (operator must hold valid Japanese license).
20. Dangerous Goods Handling
20.1 IMDG Class 1 explosives require special berth allocation (72h advance notice).
20.2 Toxic gas carriers (e.g., chlorine, ammonia) must use designated anchorage for pre-inspection.
21. Ship Repair Services
21.1 Limited repair facilities available (hull welding/piping repairs up to 500A).
21.2 Divers available for underwater inspections (48h notice required).
22. Communications
22.1 Port Authority email: noshiroport@city.noshiro.akita.jp (official verified address).
22.2 Agent’s radio room monitors VHF Ch 14 continuously.
23. Bunkering Procedures
23.1 MARPOL Annex VI fuel samples must be retained for 12 months.
23.2 Bunker barge connection requires drip trays and spill response kit on standby.
24. Crew Welfare Facilities
24.1 Seamen’s club located 1.2km from West Quay (shuttle bus available).
24.2 Currency exchange available at port administration building (0900-1700 weekdays).
25. Ice Navigation (Winter Operations)
25.1 Icebreaker assistance available when thickness exceeds 30cm (Port Captain’s discretion).
25.2 Bow thrusters must be operational for winter berthing (below 0°C).
26. Port State Control
26.1 Tokyo MOU inspection rate: 18% (focus on life-saving/firefighting equipment).
26.2 Common deficiencies: Emergency generator fuel tank levels and EEBD maintenance.
27. Electronic Navigation
27.1 ENC coverage: JP5022A (1:15,000) recommended for approach.
27.2 AtoNs maintained to IALA Region A standards (lateral marks).
28. Port Entry Documentation
28.1 Required 24h pre-arrival: E-NoD, E-Arrival forms (Japan MOL system).
28.2 Original crew vaccination records may be inspected by quarantine.
29. Vessel Traffic Management
29.1 Mandatory reporting to Noshiro VTS when crossing 40°15’N parallel (inbound) or departing berth (outbound).
29.2 Automatic Identification System (AIS) must remain operational throughout port stay.
30. Port Labor Regulations
30.1 Stevedore working hours: 0800-1700 (standard), overtime rates apply beyond these hours.
30.2 Minimum gang size: 8 workers for general cargo, 12 for bulk operations.
31. Cargo Documentation
31.1 Original Bill of Lading required for all cargo release (telex release not accepted).
31.2 Hazardous cargo manifests must include UN numbers in Japanese translation.
32. Port Security Areas
32.1 Restricted zones marked by yellow lines – crew access prohibited without escort.
32.2 ISPS compliant photo ID required for all personnel entering port facilities.
33. Meteorological Services
33.1 Real-time weather updates broadcast on VHF Ch 16 at 0000, 0600, 1200, 1800 UTC.
33.2 Typhoon warnings trigger automatic safety meetings with Port Authority.
34. Waste Management
34.1 Separate containers required for food waste, plastics, and operational waste.
34.2 Medical waste must be handed directly to port health officials.
35. Emergency Response
35.1 Oil spill response equipment stationed at West and East quays (capacity 50 tons).
35.2 Fireboats on 15-minute standby during vessel operations.
36. Electronic Services
36.1 ETA notifications must use standardized JP-MAREC format.
36.2 Digital port clearance available through Japan MOL’s e-Gov system.
37. Special Cargo Considerations
37.1 Oversized cargo requires road survey 72h prior to unloading.
37.2 Radioactive materials limited to 48-hour maximum storage duration.
38. Vessel Maintenance
38.1 Underwater cleaning prohibited without prior environmental approval.
38.2 Stack emissions visible for >3 minutes constitute violation during port stay.
39. Local Ordinances
39.1 Discharge of any gray water within 3nm of port prohibited.
39.2 Night illumination must be reduced to minimum safe levels after 2200.
40. Navigation Aids
40.1 Leading lights aligned at 275°T for main channel approach.
40.2 No.3 buoy (starboard) equipped with radar reflector and AIS transmitter.
41. Port Entry Requirements
41.1 Vessels must submit completed Maritime Declaration of Health to Quarantine at least 12 hours before arrival.
41.2 Last 10 ports of call must be declared for biosecurity risk assessment.
42. Cargo Storage Regulations
42.1 Bonded warehouse available for temporary storage (max 30 days).
42.2 Hazardous materials storage limited to 72 hours without special permit.
43. Tug Operations
43.1 Minimum bollard pull requirements: 35 tons for vessels 10,000-30,000 DWT.
43.2 Tug fastening lines must be inspected by both crew and tug crew before operations.
44. Ballast Water Management
44.1 Mandatory ballast water reporting form to be submitted 24 hours before arrival.
44.2 Exchange operations permitted only beyond 200nm from nearest land.
45. Crew Training Requirements
45.1 Deck officers must demonstrate proficiency in Japanese mooring commands.
45.2 Emergency response drills must be conducted within 24 hours of berthing.
46. Port Infrastructure
46.1 All berths equipped with ISO standard container lashing points.
46.2 Maximum air draft restriction: 45m due to overhead power lines at East Quay.
47. Cargo Survey Requirements
47.1 Independent surveyor required for bulk cargo measurements exceeding 10,000 MT.
47.2 Timber cargo must be inspected for pests before loading.
48. Vessel Positioning
48.1 DGPS reference station available (call sign JP4NOS).
48.2 Berthing plans must account for 0.5m tidal window during spring tides.
49. Port Authority Inspections
49.1 Random safety inspections conducted on 15% of visiting vessels.
49.2 Common deficiencies include improper gangway nets and inadequate fire patrols.
50. Special Operations
50.1 Heavy lift operations require Port Captain’s approval 72 hours in advance.
50.2 Simultaneous cargo and bunkering operations need additional fire watch personnel.
51. Vessel Dimension Limitations
51.1 Maximum permissible LOA for inner harbor: 230m (including tugs during berthing)
51.2 Beam restriction at turning basin: 38m for vessels exceeding 180m LOA
52. Mooring Line Specifications
52.1 Minimum breaking strength: 125% of calculated maximum load
52.2 Synthetic lines prohibited for vessels >20,000 DWT during winter months
53. Cargo Securing Standards
53.1 IMO CSS Code must be strictly followed for all non-containerized cargo
53.2 Additional lashing required for steel coils during January-March due to winter swells
54. Port Communication Protocols
54.1 English/Japanese bilingual pilot cards must be submitted 6 hours before arrival
54.2 Mandatory radio check with Port Control when passing No.2 Fairway Buoy
55. Emergency Equipment Requirements
55.1 Vessels must maintain emergency towing gear ready for immediate deployment
55.2 Additional fire pumps required when handling Class B flammable liquids
56. Environmental Monitoring
56.1 Continuous air quality monitoring conducted within 500m of chemical berths
56.2 Mandatory oil content meter calibration certificates for all bilge water transfers
57. Special Area Compliance
57.1 Strict enforcement of MARPOL Annex V (Special Area) regulations
57.2 Zero plastic discharge policy extends to 12nm from port limits
58. Night Navigation Procedures
58.1 Additional spotlight requirements for vessels maneuvering after sunset
58.2 Reduced speed zones (5 knots) in effect 2100-0500 local time
59. Bunkering Quality Control
59.1 Mandatory MARPOL samples to be drawn by both vessel and supplier representatives
59.2 Bunker delivery notes must include Japan-specific fuel parameters
60. Crew Health Protocols
60.1 Mandatory tuberculosis screening for crew joining from high-risk countries
60.2 Port medical facility equipped for maritime-specific emergency treatments
61. Port Entry Clearance
61.1 Pre-arrival documentation must include valid P&I Club certificate and class records
61.2 Vessels with overdue surveys restricted to daylight entry only
62. Cargo Handling Restrictions
62.1 Grain operations suspended when wind speeds exceed 15m/s
62.2 Prohibited cargo list includes asbestos-containing materials and certain pesticides
63. Navigation Channel Rules
63.1 Overtaking prohibited in main channel between buoys 7-12
63.2 Deep-draft vessels (>12m) must coordinate passage with port control
64. Port Safety Equipment
64.1 Mandatory gas detectors for all vessels carrying flammable cargoes
64.2 Emergency breathing apparatus required for enclosed space entry
65. Vessel Maintenance Rules
65.1 Hot work permits require 12-hour notice and fire watch arrangement
65.2 Underwater hull cleaning prohibited without environmental approval
66. Port Fee Structure
66.1 Wharfage fees include first 24 hours, hourly rates apply thereafter
66.2 Environmental incentive discounts for LNG-fueled vessels
67. Hazardous Operations
67.1 Simultaneous cargo and bunkering operations require additional safety measures
67.2 Explosive handling limited to daylight hours with police supervision
68. Vessel Sanitation
68.1 Mandatory deratting certificates for vessels from certain regions
68.2 Medical waste must be incinerated at approved facilities only
69. Port Working Hours
69.1 Standard operations 0700-1900, overtime rates apply outside these hours
69.2 No cargo operations permitted on national holidays without special permission
70. Emergency Contacts
70.1 Port Control: VHF Channel 16/12, +81-XXX-XXX-XXXX (24/7)
70.2 Medical Emergency: Dial 119 from port phones, specify “marine incident”
71. Vessel Speed Regulations
71.1 Speed limit of 8 knots within port approach channel (buoy 1 to inner breakwater)
71.2 Tankers must maintain minimum steerage speed during final approach (3-5 knots)
72. Cargo Documentation
72.1 Original manifest must be stamped by customs before cargo operations commence
72.2 Dangerous goods declarations require Japanese/English bilingual format
73. Port Security Measures
73.1 ISPS Level 1: Mandatory gangway watch with visitor logbook
73.2 Restricted areas marked with red/white striped barriers – access requires escort
74. Mooring Arrangements
74.1 Minimum 8 mooring lines required for vessels >150m LOA (4 head, 4 stern)
74.2 Spring lines must be tended continuously during cargo operations
75. Waste Disposal Services
75.1 Slop reception facility available at West Quay (advance booking required)
75.2 Separate collection for food waste, recyclables, and hazardous materials
76. Vessel Inspection Regime
76.1 Port State Control focuses on lifeboat equipment and firefighting systems
76.2 Common deficiencies: Inoperative emergency lighting and expired pyrotechnics
77. Special Cargo Handling
77.1 Project cargo requires route survey and police escort for road transport
77.2 Refrigerated containers must have valid temperature logs for inspection
78. Pilotage Requirements
78.1 Compulsory pilotage for all vessels >500 GT
78.2 Pilot boarding area: 2nm NE of No.1 Fairway Buoy (weather permitting)
79. Port Infrastructure
79.1 Maximum alongside depth: 15m at Berths 5-8 (tidal variations ±1.2m)
79.2 Container gantry cranes available up to Post-Panamax size (22 rows)
80. Environmental Compliance
80.1 Continuous emissions monitoring for vessels at berth >24 hours
80.2 Strict ballast water exchange verification procedures in effect
81. Vessel Berthing Priorities
81.1 Emergency vessels and state-owned ships receive docking priority
81.2 Commercial vessels must submit berth request at least 72 hours in advance
82. Dangerous Goods Handling
82.1 Class 1 explosives limited to designated secure area (West Dock Zone 3)
82.2 Radioactive materials require 48-hour pre-notification and special handling
83. Port Lighting Requirements
83.1 Working deck illumination minimum 200 lux during night operations
83.2 Navigation lights must remain operational throughout port stay
84. Crew Shore Leave
84.1 Crew must carry valid seafarer’s ID and port pass when going ashore
84.2 Curfew hours 0100-0500 for crew in port area (exceptions require approval)
85. Cargo Weight Verification
85.1 Mandatory weighbridge certification for all export containerized cargo
85.2 Bulk cargo weight discrepancies >2% require recalculations before loading
86. Port Emergency Drills
86.1 Quarterly oil spill response exercises conducted with port authorities
86.2 Vessels must participate in port security drills during extended stays
87. Vessel Repair Services
87.1 Approved contractors list available from Port Operations Office
87.2 Major repairs require port engineer’s supervision and safety plan
88. Navigation Restrictions
88.1 Fog procedures: Speed reduction to 5 knots when visibility <500m
88.2 Ice navigation: Tug escort mandatory when sea temperature <2°C
89. Port Customs Procedures
89.1 All vessel stores must be declared on Customs Form JP-104A
89.2 Bonded items require special seals and continuous inventory control
90. Marine Pollution Control
90.1 Zero discharge policy for all vessel-generated wastes in port waters
90.2 Automatic fines for any observed oil sheen from vessel operations
91. Vessel Traffic Management
91.1 Mandatory AIS transmission required within 20nm of port limits
91.2 VTS routing instructions must be strictly followed during peak hours (0800-1000, 1600-1800)
92. Cargo Handling Equipment
92.1 Certified lifting gear must display current test certificates visibly
92.2 Maximum single lift capacity: 120 tons at main container terminal
93. Port Meteorological Services
93.1 Real-time weather updates broadcast on VHF Channel 68 every hour
93.2 Gale warnings (Beaufort 8+) trigger automatic cargo operation suspension
94. Ship Chandler Services
94.1 Approved provision suppliers must present port-issued ID badges
94.2 All deliveries require prior notification to Port Security 4 hours in advance
95. Vessel Anchorage Rules
95.1 Designated anchorage areas assigned based on vessel length and draft
95.2 Maximum anchorage duration: 72 hours without special permission
96. Port Fire Safety
96.1 Fire hoses must be deployed and pressurized during all cargo operations
96.2 Quarterly fire system inspections mandatory for vessels in regular service
97. Special Vessel Requirements
97.1 LNG carriers require additional security clearance 7 days prior to arrival
97.2 Cruise ships must submit passenger manifest to immigration 24h before docking
98. Port Utilities Services
98.1 Shore power available at selected berths (440V/60Hz, 3-phase)
98.2 Potable water supply rate: 50 tons/hour maximum connection capacity
99. Navigation Aids Maintenance
99.1 Immediate reporting required for any malfunctioning port navigation aids
99.2 Temporary marks installed during maintenance will be chart-notified
100. Port Administrative Procedures
100.1 All port fees must be settled before departure clearance is issued
100.2 Dispute resolution process requires written submission within 14 days
101. Vessel Draft Restrictions
101.1 Maximum arrival draft limited to 14.5m including tidal allowance
101.2 Underkeel clearance must be maintained at 10% of vessel’s draft minimum
102. Bunkering Operations
102.1 Double-hull bunker barges mandatory for all fuel transfers
102.2 Continuous communication required between vessel and barge during operations
103. Port Storage Facilities
103.1 Bonded warehouse available for temporary cargo storage (max 30 days)
103.2 Refrigerated storage capacity: 500 TEU at -25°C to +25°C range
104. Tug Service Requirements
104.1 Minimum two tugboats required for vessels exceeding 200m LOA
104.2 Tug connection points must be clearly marked and accessible
105. Crew Change Procedures
105.1 Advance notification 48 hours prior for all crew changes
105.2 Mandatory health screening for disembarking/joining crew members
106. Port Clearance Documentation
106.1 Outward clearance requires stamped cargo manifest and port dues receipt
106.2 Crew list verification against immigration records before departure
107. Hazardous Weather Protocols
107.1 Typhoon warning signal #3 triggers mandatory port evacuation
107.2 Vessels must maintain emergency steam on main engines during alerts
108. Port Communication Systems
108.1 Digital Notice to Mariners updated daily on port website
108.2 Emergency broadcast system covers entire port area via loudspeakers
109. Vessel Maintenance Restrictions
109.1 Hull painting prohibited during cargo operations
109.2 Engine repairs requiring hot work need separate safety zone
110. Port Entry Requirements
110.1 Valid PSC inspection report from last port must be available
110.2 Vessels >15 years old subject to additional structural checks
111. Vessel Traffic Separation Scheme
111.1 Inbound and outbound lanes strictly enforced in main channel
111.2 Crossing traffic must request permission from VTS at least 30 minutes in advance
112. Cargo Securing Standards
112.1 All container stacks require twist-lock verification before departure
112.2 Breakbulk cargo must be secured following IMO CSS Code requirements
113. Port Quarantine Procedures
113.1 Health declarations required for all vessels from high-risk areas
113.2 Medical waste must be properly labeled and stored in yellow containers
114. Vessel Reporting System
114.1 Mandatory position reports at designated waypoints approaching port
114.2 ETA updates required at 24h, 12h, and 6h before arrival
115. Port Laytime Calculation
115.1 Laytime commences 2 hours after berthing or when NOR tendered
115.2 Weather working days apply for all cargo operations
116. Special Area Regulations
116.1 Strict ballast water exchange prohibited within 50nm of port
116.2 Special SOx Emission Control Area measures in force year-round
117. Vessel Dimension Limits
117.1 Maximum LOA: 350m for main container terminal
117.2 Air draft restriction: 55m at high water springs
118. Port Garbage Handling
118.1 Segregated waste reception facilities available at all berths
118.2 Plastic waste must be compacted and sealed before disposal
119. Navigation in Restricted Visibility
119.1 Radar-assisted movement only when visibility <1000m
119.2 Mandatory pilotage for all vessels during fog conditions
120. Port Security Levels
120.1 ISPS Level 2: Additional patrols and access restrictions implemented
120.2 All vehicles entering port subject to search and escorts required
