Page 268 - Rules of Navigation2020

(11) Sound Signals

Masters of small crafts equipped with horns or Sirens are strictly prohibited to use them unless
it was meant to declare making Maneuvers, according to the following conditions:

1- One short blast: “coming starboard side”.
Two short blasts:” coming port side”.

Three short blasts: “operating astern propulsion full speed”.
2- 5 or 6 short blasts which means:” I am reducing speed and may have to stop or make

fast”. The signal could be repeated several times at short intervals when needed.
3- One prolonged blast to draw attention.
N.B: The expression “one shot blast” means a blast of about 1 second duration.

The expression “one prolonged blast” means of blast of 4 to 6 seconds duration.

(12) Accidents

Whenever a collision appears inevitable, the master of the small craft must not hesitate to run

aground, should this be necessary to avoid the collision.
If an accident occurs in the Canal water, the Suez Canal Authority shall, of its own accord and
at the expense and responsibility of the owners of the small craft, take the necessary procedures

to clear the canal. For the purpose of this action, the owners of the small craft have to submit,
before transiting the canal an insurance policy in favor of the Suez Canal Authority (fishing

boats are exempted from such condition).
The Canal Authority (CA) shall decide, on a case-by-case basis, the cost of such operations to
be paid by the people in charge of the floating unit.

(13) Using Tug-boats Other than the those owned by Suez Canal Authority:

Owners of small crafts are allowed to get their units towed by their own tugs or by tugs owned
by a third party. Towage operations are carried out under their own responsibility and according

to the conditions the SCA find proper for the safety of navigation. Towage operations are only
allowed to tugs or self-propelled barges, provided that the speed of the towed convoy should

exceed 6 km/h.
Transit permit shall only be given after the necessary inspection, speed trials, and paying SCA

charges in this regard.

(14) Transit Dues

1- Definition: Ballast small craft: The small craft is considered in ballast if transiting the Canal
without carrying any cargo, and the small craft does not earn freight on her voyage. The

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