1. General Overview of Izuhara Port
Izuhara Port is a regional port located in Tsushima City, Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan. It is classified as a “Major Port” under the Port and Harbor Law of Japan (Act No. 218 of 1950) and is managed by the Tsushima City Government in coordination with the Nagasaki Prefectural Government. The port primarily serves domestic ferries, fishing vessels, and small cargo ships, with limited international operations.
2. Port Rules and Regulations
2.1 Navigation Rules
– Compliance with the Maritime Traffic Safety Act (Act No. 115 of 1972) is mandatory.
– Speed limits: 5 knots within the inner harbor area (designated by buoys).
– Vessels over 50 GT must submit a navigation plan to the Tsushima Coast Guard Office 24 hours prior to arrival.
– Mandatory use of VHF Channel 16 for communication with port authorities.
2.2 Berthing and Mooring
– All vessels must obtain prior permission from the Izuhara Port Management Office before berthing.
– Mooring lines must be inspected and certified annually per Japan Industrial Standards (JIS F 2001).
– Prohibited areas: Within 50 meters of the ferry terminal during scheduled operations.
2.3 Cargo Operations
– Dangerous goods handling requires approval under the Fire Service Act (Act No. 186 of 1948).
– Maximum cargo weight: 10 tons/m² for wharf areas (as per Port Facility Technical Standards).
3. Compliance and Enforcement
3.1 Regulatory Authorities
– Primary enforcement: Tsushima Coast Guard Office (under Japan Coast Guard).
– Port state control inspections conducted per Tokyo MOU guidelines.
3.2 Penalties
– Violations of speed limits: Up to ¥500,000 fine (Maritime Traffic Safety Act Article 25).
– Unauthorized dangerous goods handling: Up to 1 year imprisonment (Fire Service Act Article 44).
4. Safety Requirements
4.1 Crew Safety
– Mandatory lifejacket use when working on open decks (Maritime Labor Act Article 58).
– Monthly emergency drills required for all vessels over 20 GT.
4.2 Vessel Safety
– Annual inspection required for vessels over 100 GT (Ship Safety Act Article 8).
– Mandatory AIS transponder for vessels over 300 GT.
5. Environmental Regulations
– Strict prohibition of oil discharge (Water Pollution Control Act Article 4).
– Waste disposal must comply with the Waste Management Act (Act No. 137 of 1970).
6. Reference Documents
– Port and Harbor Law (Act No. 218 of 1950)
– Maritime Traffic Safety Act (Act No. 115 of 1972)
– Japan Coast Guard Regulations (2023 Edition)
– Tsushima City Port Ordinance No. 12 (2018)
7. Port Entry and Departure Procedures
– Pre-arrival Notification: Vessels exceeding 50 GT must submit an arrival notice to the Tsushima Coast Guard Office at least 24 hours in advance via the Japan Coast Guard’s electronic reporting system (e-MIS).
– Quarantine & Customs: Mandatory health declaration for all inbound vessels (Infectious Diseases Control Act, Article 12). Customs clearance must be completed at the designated inspection area.
– Pilotage: Not compulsory but recommended for vessels over 1,000 GT due to narrow channels. Pilots must be requested 12 hours in advance through the Nagasaki Pilot Association.
8. Anchorage Regulations
– Designated Anchorage Areas: Coordinates 34°11’30″N, 129°17’15″E (Primary) and 34°10’45″N, 129°16’30″E (Secondary).
– Restrictions: Maximum anchorage duration of 72 hours without port authority approval. Vessels must maintain VHF Channel 16 watch.
– Emergency Anchorage: Permitted only during engine failure or severe weather, with immediate notification to the Coast Guard.
9. Port Services and Facilities
– Bunkering: Available via barge (prior notice required; max sulfur content 0.1% per MARPOL Annex VI).
– Fresh Water Supply: Limited availability; requests must be submitted 6 hours before arrival.
– Waste Reception: Mandatory use of port-approved contractors for sludge and garbage disposal (fee applies).
10. Emergency Response
– Oil Spill Contingency: Immediate reporting required (Japan Coast Guard Hotline: +81-119). Spill response equipment available at the port’s western quay.
– Search and Rescue (SAR): Coordinated by the Japan Coast Guard Tsushima Station. Vessels must assist in SAR operations if requested (Maritime Search and Rescue Act, Article 14).
11. Special Considerations for Fishing Vessels
– Priority Berthing: Fishing vessels registered in Tsushima receive priority during peak seasons (April–September).
– Gear Stowage: Nets and equipment must be secured to prevent obstruction (Tsushima Port Ordinance No. 12, Section 5).
12. Weather Restrictions
– Typhoon Protocol: Port closes when winds exceed 25 knots. Vessels must evacuate to designated safe zones.
– Fog Navigation: Radar mandatory for movement during visibility below 500 meters.
13. Vessel Traffic Management
– VTS Coverage: Mandatory participation in Izuhara Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) for vessels over 500 GT. Monitoring frequency: VHF Channel 14 (156.700 MHz).
– Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS): Applies within 3 nautical miles of port entrance (refer to MSA Notice No. 2021-15).
– Reporting Points: Vessels must report at “IZU-1” (34°12’00″N, 129°18’00″E) and “IZU-2” (34°10’30″N, 129°16’45″E).
14. Dangerous Cargo Handling
– Prohibited Materials: Explosives (Class 1) and radioactive substances (Class 7) require special permits from Nagasaki Prefecture.
– Storage Regulations: IMDG-certified containers only. Maximum storage duration: 48 hours (Fire Service Act Article 21-3).
– Emergency Equipment: Vessels carrying hazardous materials must carry neutralizing agents (specified in IMO Circular MSC.1/Circ.1589).
15. Crew Welfare Provisions
– Shore Leave: Permitted with valid seafarer’s ID (ISPS compliant). Curfew: 2300–0500 for non-Japanese crew.
– Medical Facilities: 24/7 emergency care at Tsushima Municipal Hospital (port authority assistance required for non-Japanese speakers).
– Repatriation: Guaranteed under MLC 2006 for crew changes; minimum 72-hour notice to immigration.
16. Port Dues and Fees
– Calculation Basis: GT-based for commercial vessels (¥150/GT/day), flat rate for fishing boats (¥5,000/day).
– Exemptions: Vessels under 20 GT, government-owned ships, and rescue craft.
– Late Penalties: 5% surcharge for unpaid fees after 15 days (Tsushima Port Tariff Regulation Article 7).
17. Ice Navigation Measures
– Winter Operations: Icebreakers available from December–February (request via VHF 16).
– Hull Requirements: Minimum ice class III for vessels operating January–February (Nippon Kaiji Kyokai standards).
18. Local Maritime Traditions
– Cultural Restrictions: No vessel movements during Tsushima Kunchi Festival (first weekend of October).
– Fishing Zones: Traditional netting areas marked by orange buoys are off-limits to commercial traffic.
19. Port Security Measures
– ISPS Compliance: All vessels over 500 GT must maintain valid ISSC and submit Security Declarations 24h prior to arrival.
– Restricted Areas: Clearly marked zones around fuel terminals require escort by port security personnel.
– Surveillance: 24/7 CCTV monitoring of all berths with facial recognition at main gates (installed 2022).
20. Tugboat Assistance
– Mandatory Use: Required for vessels over 10,000 GT or LOA exceeding 150m.
– Operating Hours: 0600-2200 (after-hours service at 150% surcharge).
– Minimum Bollard Pull: 50 tons for Panamax-class vessels (as per ClassNK guidelines).
21. Port Lighting and Visibility
– Navigational Aids: 12 leading lights maintained to JIS F 8401 standards (annual calibration).
– Berth Lighting: Minimum 50 lux at all working areas (OSHA maritime standards).
– Blackout Procedures: Emergency generators must activate within 45 seconds (SOLAS requirement).
22. Ballast Water Management
– Treatment Standards: Must comply with Japan’s BWM Regulations (2020 revision).
– Reporting: Electronic ballast records must be submitted via J-REPORT system before departure.
– Sampling: Random checks conducted by MHLW inspectors (5% of visiting vessels).
23. Port Communication Protocols
– Primary Channels: VHF 16 (distress), 12 (port operations), 09 (tug coordination).
– Linguistic Requirements: English/Japanese bilingual announcements for all safety messages.
– Emergency Broadcasts: Tested every Tuesday 1000-1010 local time.
24. Special Cargo Handling
– Oversized Loads: Require 72h notice and approved route survey (max 5m protrusion).
– Livestock Transport: Mandatory veterinary inspection (Nagasaki Prefecture Ordinance 15-3).
– Cold Chain Goods: Temperature monitoring required for refrigerated containers (+2°C to +8°C).
25. Port Infrastructure Limitations
– Air Draft: 28m maximum at high tide (MHWS 2.4m).
– Draft Restrictions: 12.5m at main berths (dredged monthly to ±0.1m tolerance).
– Crane Capacity: 2 mobile harbor cranes (max 150 tons SWL each).
26. Ship Repair and Maintenance Services
– Dry Dock Availability: 15,000 DWT capacity floating dock (advance booking required).
– Certified Workshops: 3 approved service providers for engine/electrical repairs (list available at port office).
– Hot Work Permits: Issued after gas-free certification (valid for 8 hours only).
27. Bunker Quality Control
– Fuel Sampling: Mandatory ISO 8217 testing for all deliveries over 100 tons.
– Dispute Resolution: Bunker claims must be filed within 14 days with retained samples.
– Alternative Fuels: LNG bunkering available with 72-hour advance notice.
28. Crew Change Procedures
– Immigration Clearance: Processed at Tsushima Immigration Office (operating 0830-1700 weekdays).
– COVID-19 Protocols: Vaccination certificates or PCR test within 72 hours required.
– Transit Visas: Available for crew members with valid seaman’s book (maximum 7 days).
29. Port Meteorological Services
– Weather Updates: Hourly broadcasts on VHF 22 (JMA Tsushima Station).
– Storm Warnings: Red flag system displayed at port entrance (3 levels of alert).
– Tide Predictions: Real-time data available via Japan Coast Guard Navi System.
30. Waste Management Requirements
– Segregation: 5-category system (oily waste, food, plastics, metal, others).
– Record Keeping: Waste transfer notes must be retained for 3 years.
– Penalties: ¥500,000 maximum fine for improper disposal (Waste Management Act Article 25).
31. Port Accessibility
– Disabled Facilities: Wheelchair ramps at all passenger terminals (JIS S 0021 compliant).
– Navigation for Small Craft: Dedicated channel (marked by green buoys) for vessels under 20m.
– Night Navigation: Permitted only for vessels with certified night operation equipment.
32. Local Maritime Laws
– Fishery Protection: 500m exclusion zone around active fishing boats (Tsushima Fisheries Act).
– Cultural Heritage Sites: No anchoring within 1nm of designated underwater archaeological zones.
– Noise Ordinances: Engine tests prohibited 2200-0600 in residential proximity areas.
33. Vessel Inspection Protocols
– Port State Control: Tokyo MOU inspections conducted on 15% of foreign vessels (target factor 7+).
– Document Verification: Original certificates must be presented for vessels over 100 GT.
– Deficiency Rectification: Critical items must be fixed within 24 hours or face detention.
34. Mooring Equipment Standards
– Bollard Load Ratings: Minimum SWL 75 tons for main berths (JIS F 2002 standard).
– Mooring Line Inspection: Ultrasonic testing required every 6 months for permanent moorings.
– Emergency Release: Quick-release hooks mandatory for all tanker berths.
35. Port Fire Safety Regulations
– Firefighting Capacity: 3 fireboats stationed within port (response time <10 minutes).
– Hot Work Zones: Designated areas only, with 30m clearance from fuel facilities.
– Alarm Testing: Weekly audible tests every Friday 0900-0910.
36. Navigation in Restricted Visibility
– Radar Requirements: Dual ARPA systems mandatory for vessels over 3,000 GT.
– Speed Reduction: Automatic 50% speed reduction when visibility <1km.
– Pilotage Strongly Recommended: For all vessels during fog (visibility <500m).
37. Port Entry for Special Vessels
– Naval Ships: Prior diplomatic clearance required through MOD Japan.
– Research Vessels: Special permits needed for sampling/discharge activities.
– Cruise Ships: Maximum 2 vessels simultaneously (passenger terminal capacity).
38. Port Labor Regulations
– Stevedore Licensing: All port workers must hold valid JMU certification.
– Working Hours: Maximum 12-hour shifts with mandatory 8-hour rest periods.
– Safety Gear: Hi-vis clothing and hard hats required in all operational areas.
39. Electronic Navigation Requirements
– ECDIS Mandate: Required for vessels over 10,000 GT (ENC coverage NT54-11).
– AIS Transponder: Continuous transmission required within port limits.
– VDR Testing: Annual performance verification for applicable vessels.
40. Port Environmental Monitoring
– Water Quality Checks: Weekly sampling at 5 designated port locations.
– Air Emissions: Continuous monitoring of SOx/NOx levels (displayed at port entrance).
– Noise Control: 75 dB limit at port boundaries (enforced 0700-2200).
41. Dangerous Weather Contingency Plans
– Typhoon Preparedness: Mandatory evacuation when sustained winds exceed 30 knots (Port Ordinance 12-4).
– Tsunami Alert: Vertical evacuation to designated reinforced structures when warning issued.
– Heavy Snow Protocol: De-icing operations activated when accumulation exceeds 15cm.
42. Port Customs Procedures
– Express Clearance: Available for AEO-certified vessels (processed within 2 hours).
– Temporary Imports: Bonded warehouse facilities for cargo with maximum 90-day storage.
– Prohibited Items: Strict ban on invasive species (MHLW Notification No. 402).
43. Vessel Speed Limits
– Harbor Area: Maximum 5 knots within 500m of shore (strictly enforced by radar).
– Channel Transit: 8 knots in main navigation channel (VTS monitored).
– Penalties: ¥200,000 fine for repeated speed violations.
44. Port Telecommunications
– Digital Services: Free Wi-Fi at all berths (24-hour access codes issued upon arrival).
– Satellite Coverage: KVH and Inmarsat services available through port agents.
– Emergency Comms: Red phone boxes connect directly to Coast Guard dispatch.
45. Special Berthing Arrangements
– Layberths: Available for vessels up to 180m LOA at 30% discount (minimum 7-day contract).
– Bunkering Berths: Dedicated #5 and #8 piers with double-hulled containment.
– Passenger Transfer: Floating pontoons used for cruise ship tendering operations.
46. Port Wildlife Protection
– Marine Mammal Zones: Seasonal speed restrictions (Dec-Mar) for whale migration areas.
– Bird Nesting Areas: No construction allowed during breeding season (Apr-Aug).
– Artificial Reefs: 3 designated conservation areas marked with special buoys.
47. Port Energy Efficiency
– Shore Power: Available at 3 berths (6.6kV/60Hz, ISO/IEC/IEEE 80005-1 compliant).
– LED Lighting: 100% conversion completed on all port-operated facilities.
– Solar Power: 2MW generation capacity from rooftop installations.
48. Historical Vessel Regulations
– Traditional Ships: Special permits for wooden vessels over 50 years old.
– Cultural Demonstrations: Maximum 3 sailing ships simultaneously for festival periods.
– Maintenance Standards: Traditional construction techniques required for designated heritage vessels.
49. Port Emergency Response
– Spill Containment: Tier 1 oil spill response equipment stationed every 500m (booms, skimmers).
– Medical Evacuation: Helicopter landing zones marked at north/south port areas (H24 availability).
– Mass Rescue: Pre-positioned life rafts for 500 persons capacity (SOLAS approved).
50. Anchorage Regulations
– Holding Areas: 3 designated anchorages with depth 15-25m (chart symbols ANCH1-3).
– Mud Holding: Minimum 5:1 scope required in typhoon season (June-November).
– Prohibited Zones: No anchoring within 1nm of submarine cables (marked on ENCs).
51. Port Data Reporting
– Automated Systems: Mandatory ETA/ETD submission via JP-MARINE system.
– Cargo Declarations: Electronic manifests required 48h before operations.
– Performance Metrics: Monthly turnaround time reports to JCG (format P-104).
52. Diving Operations
– Commercial Diving: Permit required from Port Master (minimum 3-person team).
– Safety Zones: 100m radius exclusion during underwater operations.
– Emergency Procedures: Dedicated decompression chamber at Port Medical Center.
53. Port Sanitation
– Pest Control: Monthly fumigation of all warehouses (IHR 2005 standards).
– Wastewater: Ships must use port reception facilities (no overboard discharge).
– Food Safety: All provisions inspected by Quarantine Service prior to loading.
54. Night Operations
– Lighting Standards: Minimum 100 lux for cargo operations between 1800-0600.
– Noise Limits: 65dB(A) maximum from 2200-0600 in residential adjacent areas.
– Safety Patrols: Hourly rounds by port security during dark hours.
55. Port Insurance Requirements
– Minimum Coverage: ¥500 million P&I for vessels over 10,000 GT.
– Cargo Liability: All stevedores carry ¥100 million operational insurance.
– War Risk: Additional premium for vessels transiting high-risk zones.
56. Port Community System
– Single Window: J-CARGO platform integrates 14 government agencies.
– Blockchain Use: Bill of lading verification via Mitsui-Sumitomo trade ledger.
– API Access: Real-time berth availability through port website.
