Yachts Transiting in Suez Canal Will Be Temporarily Exempt From Fees

The Suez Canal Authority (SCA) announced measures to boost yacht tourism, including exemptions and fee reductions, during the trial operation of the Ismailia Yacht Marina from October 15th to November 1st, 2023.

Yachts with a capacity of under 300 tonnes will be exempt from Suez Canal transit fees and berthing fees at the Ismailia Yacht Marina, provided they stay at the marina for a minimum of 10 days. Furthermore, the SCA announced discounts for long-term berthing and storage fees at the marina. Yachts stored between 30 and 90 days will receive a 50% discount, increasing to 70% for yachts stored over 90 days, with a maximum storage period of 180 days.

In line with these initiatives, the Egyptian government recently extended the duration of visas granted to foreign yacht tourists. Previously limited to one month, tourists can now receive three-month visas. The visa application process has also been streamlined through an online portal called the Yacht Single Window, allowing foreign yachts to obtain visas within 30 minutes, with fees paid in US dollars.

Another notable enhancement is the flexibility granted to yachts regarding departure ports. Under the previous system, yachts were required to leave from the same port they first arrived at. However, the new regulations allow yachts to depart from any tourist port, providing greater convenience and freedom for yacht travellers.