The Turkish Straits are sensitive waterways where special traffic regulations are applied to tanker transits due to their narrow structure and heavy traffic. Daylight transit restrictions are particularly applied to large tonnage tankers and those carrying dangerous cargo to ensure maritime safety and environmental protection.
These regulations are determined by competent authorities to reduce accident risks, manage traffic flow in a controlled manner, and minimize environmental risks.
Daylight Transit Restrictions
Daylight transit is mandatory for tankers with certain characteristics passing through the Turkish Straits. Accordingly, strait transits of such vessels are planned and executed only during daylight hours.
Daylight transit practice is preferred to ensure better visibility conditions, more effective traffic management, and increased emergency response capacity.
Scope
Tankers with the following characteristics fall under the daylight transit regulation:
- Tankers with LOA (Length Overall) of 200 meters and above
- Vessels carrying dangerous cargo
- Tankers above certain DWT (Deadweight Tonnage) limits
- Tankers assessed as operationally risky by competent authorities
These criteria are applied taking into account vessel dimensions, cargo type, and operational risk factors.
Transit Hours
Daylight transits are conducted during the time period from sunrise to sunset. However:
- Sunrise and sunset times vary according to the season.
- Factors such as weather conditions, visibility, and traffic density may cause changes in transit times.
- Final transit times are determined by competent authorities and communicated before the operation.
Therefore, flexible time management and advance coordination are of great importance in planning tanker transits.
Operational Planning and Coordination
Daylight transit practices for tanker transits are finalized according to the assessment of competent institutions for each voyage. Pilotage, escort tug requirements, and traffic regulations are considered together in transit planning.