1. General Overview of Wakayama Port
Wakayama Port is a key commercial and industrial port in Japan, managed by Wakayama Prefectural Government. It serves as a hub for cargo, fisheries, and passenger vessels. The port operates under Japanese national laws and local regulations, including the Port and Harbor Law (Law No. 218 of 1950) and Wakayama Prefecture’s ordinances.
2. Port Rules and Regulations
2.1 Vessel Entry and Departure
– Prior notification is required for vessels entering or leaving Wakayama Port, submitted to the Wakayama Port Management Office at least 24 hours in advance.
– Vessels must comply with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) SOLAS and MARPOL conventions.
– Mandatory pilotage is required for vessels over 500 GT, as per the Japanese Maritime Safety Law (Law No. 28 of 1948).
2.2 Anchorage and Berthing
– Designated anchorage areas are assigned by the port authority. Unauthorized anchoring is prohibited.
– Berthing permits must be obtained from the Wakayama Port Management Office before docking.
– Vessels must adhere to the port’s designated speed limits (typically 5 knots within harbor limits).
2.3 Cargo Operations
– Hazardous cargo handling requires prior approval and compliance with the Fire Service Law (Law No. 186 of 1948).
– All cargo operations must follow the Port Labor Safety and Health Rules (Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare Ordinance No. 40 of 1972).
3. Compliance and Enforcement
3.1 Inspections
– Regular inspections are conducted by the Japan Coast Guard and Wakayama Port Authority for safety, pollution prevention, and security compliance.
– Vessels may be subject to Port State Control (PSC) inspections under Tokyo MOU guidelines.
3.2 Penalties
– Violations of port regulations may result in fines, detention, or expulsion from the port under the Port Regulations Law (Law No. 174 of 1948).
– Severe breaches (e.g., pollution) are prosecuted under the Act on Punishment of Marine Pollution and Maritime Disaster Prevention (Law No. 136 of 1970).
4. Safety Measures
4.1 Crew Safety
– Life-saving appliances must comply with SOLAS Chapter III requirements.
– Emergency drills (fire, abandon ship) must be conducted monthly, as per ISM Code provisions.
4.2 Navigation Safety
– Vessels must maintain AIS and VHF radio communication within port limits (Maritime Traffic Safety Law, Law No. 115 of 1972).
– Weather restrictions: Operations may be suspended during typhoons (winds exceeding 15 m/s).
5. Environmental Regulations
– Strict adherence to MARPOL Annex I (oil) and Annex V (garbage) is enforced. Discharge of pollutants is prohibited within the port.
– Ballast water management must comply with the Act on the Prevention of Marine Pollution and Maritime Disaster (Law No. 136 of 1970).
6. Contact Information
– Official inquiries must be directed to the Wakayama Port Authority through Japan Coast Guard or Wakayama Prefecture Government channels. No unofficial contact details are provided here per your request.
7. Port Security
– Wakayama Port complies with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. All vessels and port facilities must maintain security plans approved by the Japan Coast Guard.
– Restricted areas are clearly marked, and unauthorized access is prohibited under the Port Facility Security Plan (PFSP).
– Vessels must submit a Declaration of Security (DoS) before port entry if required by the Port Security Officer.
8. Dangerous Goods Handling
– Transport and storage of hazardous materials must follow the Fire Service Law (Law No. 186 of 1948) and IMDG Code.
– Explosives, flammable liquids, and toxic substances require prior notification and special permits from the Wakayama Port Authority and local fire department.
– Storage areas for dangerous goods must be clearly labeled and isolated from general cargo zones.
9. Waste Management
– All vessels must use port-approved waste reception facilities for disposal of oily waste, sewage, and garbage (MARPOL Annexes I, IV, V).
– A Waste Management Plan must be onboard, and records of waste disposal must be maintained as per Japanese law.
– Illegal dumping incurs severe penalties under the Act on the Prevention of Marine Pollution and Maritime Disaster (Law No. 136 of 1970).
10. Emergency Procedures
– In case of oil spills, vessels must immediately report to the Japan Coast Guard (JCG) and activate the Shipboard Oil Pollution Emergency Plan (SOPEP).
– Medical emergencies require coordination with the Wakayama Port Medical Center and Japan Coast Guard SAR teams.
– Fire incidents must be reported to the port fire brigade (VHF Ch 16) and follow the port’s emergency response protocol.
11. Port Services and Fees
– Pilotage, towage, and mooring services are mandatory for certain vessel sizes and must be arranged through the Wakayama Port Authority.
– Port dues, berth fees, and other charges are calculated based on vessel GT and cargo type, per the Wakayama Port Tariff Regulations.
– Discounts or exemptions may apply for vessels under specific agreements (e.g., Japan-flagged coastal ships).
12. Crew Welfare and Shore Leave
– Shore leave is permitted for crew members with valid seafarer’s identity documents, subject to immigration and port security checks.
– Crew changes must comply with Japanese immigration laws and ISPS Code requirements.
– Designated crew rest areas and welfare facilities are available within the port vicinity.
13. Navigational Aids and Port Infrastructure
– Wakayama Port maintains updated nautical charts (Japan Hydrographic Association) and real-time tide/current data.
– Port limits, fairways, and traffic separation schemes are enforced under the Maritime Traffic Safety Law (Law No. 115 of 1972).
– Vessels must monitor VHF Ch 12 (Port Operations) for real-time instructions from the Wakayama Vessel Traffic Service (VTS).
14. Special Considerations for Fishing Vessels
– Fishing vessels must adhere to separate berthing zones and notify the Wakayama Fisheries Cooperative before entry.
– Discharge of fish waste is regulated under the Waste Management and Public Cleansing Law (Law No. 137 of 1970).
– Compliance with the Fisheries Law (Law No. 267 of 1949) is mandatory for all fishing operations within the port.
15. Legal Jurisdiction and Dispute Resolution
– All disputes involving port operations fall under Japanese maritime law and the jurisdiction of Wakayama District Court.
– Arbitration may be pursued through the Japan Commercial Arbitration Association (JCAA) if contractually agreed.
16. Vessel Traffic Management
– Wakayama Port implements a Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) system monitored by Japan Coast Guard for safe navigation
– Vessels over 300 GT must maintain continuous VHF communication on designated channels while in port waters
– Mandatory reporting points are established at port approaches for traffic coordination
17. Port State Control Inspections
– Foreign vessels are subject to PSC inspections under Tokyo MOU guidelines with focus on:
• SOLAS compliance
• MARPOL compliance
• ISM Code implementation
• Crew certification (STCW compliance)
– Detention criteria follow standardized Tokyo MOU procedures
18. Bunkering Operations
– Bunkering requires prior approval from port authorities with 24-hour notice
– Operations must comply with MARPOL Annex VI and local air pollution regulations
– Dedicated bunkering zones are designated to minimize spill risks
19. Port Working Hours
– Standard operations: 0800-1700 JST (excluding national holidays)
– Overtime operations require special permission and additional fees
– Emergency services operate 24/7 through Japan Coast Guard coordination
20. Customs and Immigration
– All vessels must clear customs at designated inspection points
– Crew lists and passenger manifests must be submitted electronically in advance
– Strict biosecurity measures are enforced for food and animal products
21. Port Infrastructure Specifications
– Main berths can accommodate vessels up to 50,000 DWT
– Maximum draft: 12 meters at high tide (subject to silting surveys)
– Container handling capacity: 500,000 TEUs annually
22. Weather Restrictions
– Port operations may be suspended when:
• Wind speeds exceed 15 m/s (30 knots)
• Wave height exceeds 2.5 meters
• Visibility falls below 500 meters
– Typhoon contingency plans are activated based on JMA warnings
23. Ship Repair Services
– Approved shipyards within port area can perform:
• Hull repairs
• Mechanical overhauls
• Electrical system maintenance
– Hot work permits required for welding/grinding operations
24. Port Communication Protocols
– Primary working language: Japanese (English acceptable for international vessels)
– Mandatory communication channels:
• VHF Ch 16 (Emergency)
• VHF Ch 12 (Port Operations)
• VHF Ch 14 (VTS)
– Digital NOTAM system for navigational warnings
25. Special Cargo Handling
– Oversized/overweight cargo requires route survey and special transport permits
– Refrigerated containers must use approved power supply points
– Live animal transport must comply with OIE animal welfare standards
26. Port Entry Requirements for Special Vessels
– Nuclear-powered vessels require 90-day advance notification and special clearance from Japanese authorities
– Military vessels must obtain diplomatic clearance through proper channels prior to entry
– Research vessels conducting surveys in port waters need prior approval from Wakayama Prefecture
27. Port Lighting and Night Operations
– All berths and working areas are equipped with ISO-compliant illumination
– Vessels conducting night operations must provide additional lighting as per OSHA standards
– Navigation lights must be maintained in accordance with COLREGs at all times
28. Dredging and Underwater Operations
– Dredging activities require environmental impact assessment approval
– Underwater operations (including diving) must be coordinated with port authorities 72 hours in advance
– Special markers must be deployed for submerged operations affecting navigation
29. Port Sanitation and Health Measures
– Vessels must comply with International Health Regulations (2005) for disease prevention
– Medical waste disposal follows strict protocols under Japanese pharmaceutical laws
– Port health officers conduct regular inspections of galley and food storage areas
30. Ice and Cold Weather Operations
– Anti-icing procedures are implemented when temperatures fall below freezing
– Special winter-grade fuels may be required during cold months
– Deck equipment must be winterized according to manufacturer specifications
31. Port Laytime and Demurrage
– Standard laytime calculations follow GENCON charter party terms unless otherwise agreed
– Demurrage rates are published in the Wakayama Port Tariff Schedule
– Force majeure events affecting operations must be officially documented
32. Marine Insurance Requirements
– All vessels must maintain P&I coverage meeting Japanese legal minimums
– Cargo operations require all-risk marine insurance policies
– Insurance certificates must be available for port authority inspection
33. Port-Specific Local Regulations
– Wakayama Prefecture Ordinance No. 42 (Port Environmental Protection) sets additional emission limits
– Local fishing zone restrictions apply within 500m of active fishing areas
– Special noise abatement measures are enforced in residential adjacent areas
34. Electronic Data Interchange Requirements
– Pre-arrival documentation must be submitted through Japan’s electronic port clearance system
– Cargo manifests must use UN/EDIFACT standards for automated processing
– Vessel agents must register with the Japan Maritime Center for digital transactions
35. Historical and Cultural Site Protections
– Certain port-adjacent areas are protected under Japan’s Cultural Properties Protection Law
– Dredging or construction near historical sites requires special archaeological surveys
– Vessel wash must be controlled near sensitive coastal heritage locations
36. Port Facility Maintenance Standards
– All port infrastructure is maintained according to Japan’s Port Facility Technical Standards (Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Ordinance No. 50)
– Annual structural integrity inspections are mandatory for all berths and piers
– Navigation aids are calibrated quarterly by Japan Coast Guard hydrographic teams
37. Dangerous Weather Contingency Plans
– Typhoon preparedness levels are activated based on Japan Meteorological Agency warnings:
• Level 1 (Advisory): Secure loose equipment
• Level 2 (Warning): Cease cargo operations
• Level 3 (Emergency): Evacuate non-essential personnel
– Tsunami evacuation routes are clearly marked throughout port facilities
38. Port Security Zones
– Three-tier security areas are designated per ISPS Code requirements:
• Restricted Zone 1 (Critical operations)
• Controlled Zone 2 (General port area)
• Public Zone 3 (Visitor accessible)
– Biometric access control is implemented for high-security areas
39. Vessel Manning Requirements
– Minimum safe manning certificates must comply with Japan’s Ship Safety Law
– Watchkeeping arrangements must meet STCW Convention standards
– Fatigue management plans are required for vessels with extended port stays
40. Port Emergency Response Equipment
– Strategically located oil spill response kits meet MARPOL Tier 1 requirements
– Firefighting systems are tested monthly according to Japanese Industrial Standards (JIS)
– Emergency generators are maintained for 72-hour continuous operation
41. Port Accessibility Standards
– All passenger facilities comply with Japan’s Act for Eliminating Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities
– Dedicated boarding assistance is available for mobility-impaired passengers
– Tactile guidance paths are installed throughout terminal buildings
42. Port Wildlife Protection Measures
– Seasonal speed restrictions apply in marine mammal migration corridors
– Bird deterrent systems are employed near sensitive nesting areas
– Ballast water exchange is prohibited within 12 nautical miles of coastal reserves
43. Port Noise Abatement Procedures
– Nighttime (2200-0600) noise levels must not exceed 45 dB at residential boundaries
– Vessels are required to use shore power where available to reduce engine noise
– Special permits are needed for after-hours construction activities
44. Port Water Quality Monitoring
– Continuous sensors measure dissolved oxygen, pH and hydrocarbon levels
– Monthly water sampling follows Japan Environmental Agency protocols
– Dredging activities are suspended when turbidity exceeds permitted thresholds
45. Port Employee Safety Standards
– All port workers must complete Japan’s Industrial Safety and Health Law training
– Personal protective equipment requirements exceed ISO standards
– Incident reporting follows the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare guidelines
46. Port Tugboat Assistance Requirements
– Mandatory tug escort for vessels exceeding 200m LOA or 40,000 GT
– Minimum bollard pull requirements based on vessel size and weather conditions
– Tug operations must follow Japan Harbor Tugboat Association safety guidelines
47. Port Mooring System Specifications
– All mooring lines must meet OCIMF Mooring Equipment Guidelines (MEG4)
– Synthetic ropes prohibited for certain vessel types per Japanese safety regulations
– Regular mooring equipment inspections required with certification records
48. Port Dangerous Goods Storage
– Class 1 explosives storage limited to designated magazines with 24/7 monitoring
– IMDG Class 3 flammable liquids require secondary containment systems
– Temperature-controlled storage available for temperature-sensitive hazardous materials
49. Port Passenger Terminal Operations
– Cruise vessels must provide advanced passenger manifests via APIS system
– Dedicated customs and immigration processing lanes for international arrivals
– Passenger screening meets ICAO standards for port security
50. Port Navigation Channel Maintenance
– Dredging conducted annually to maintain charted depths (+0.5m tolerance)
– Channel surveys performed quarterly using multibeam sonar systems
– Notice to Mariners issued for any changes to published depths
51. Port Fire Prevention Systems
– Fixed foam fire suppression systems installed at all oil berths
– Fire main pressure maintained at 7 bar minimum throughout port
– Annual fire drills coordinated with Wakayama City Fire Department
52. Port Cargo Handling Equipment
– All cranes certified under Japan Crane Association standards
– Container handling equipment meets ISO 3874 safety requirements
– Regular non-destructive testing of critical load-bearing components
53. Port Radioactive Material Handling
– Specialized storage bunkers for Class 7 dangerous goods
– Mandatory radiation monitoring for all vessels carrying radioactive cargo
– Emergency response plans coordinated with Japan Nuclear Regulation Authority
54. Port Freshwater Supply Services
– Potable water meets WHO drinking water standards
– Backflow prevention devices required on all vessel connections
– Water quality tested daily by port health authorities
55. Port Cybersecurity Requirements
– Mandatory network segmentation for operational technology systems
– Regular penetration testing of port critical infrastructure
– Incident reporting to Japan’s National Center of Incident Readiness (NISC)
