MANAPPAD TO SETUKKARAI

Topography 
1	The SE coast of India is generally low, sandy and covered with coconut trees.
2	On most of the Lakswadeep Islands there is little spontaneous vegetation, but the conditions are especially favourable to the growth of coconut trees, which generally grow up to18 to 24 m high.

Tidal streams
Details of tidal streams may be found in the relevant sections of the chapter.

Currents 
1	Currents in the area vary as per the prevailing monsoon. 
2	In the Palk Bay region during SW monsoon season there is a current branching, towards the NE, from the N flank of the generally SE flow across the entrance to the gulf; this continues as a N flow through the narrow channels connecting the N part of the gulf with Palk Bay. During the month of December and January (NE monsoon) the flow is S through these channels which implies a mainly SW flow across the gulf, turning more W as it converges with the W to WSW flow in the more open waters to the S. In Pamban Pass the current sometimes reaches 6 kts.
3	On occasions the currents may be different from the average conditions and rates up to 2 kts can occur with prolonged strong winds; during lulls in the monsoon the current sets into instead of across the gulf. 
4	It is advisable that a careful attention is given to the current being experienced, the remarks in the appropriate sections of this chapter and the notations on the charts. 

Buoyage
1	ODAS buoys may be encountered well seaward of the  Lakshadweep islands; a minimum distance off of 1 mile is requested and vessels should not anchor nor trawl within 1000 m. ODAS buoys are not charted; details of buoys is given in Temporary Notices periodically published in Indian Notices to Mariners.

Charts 317
Point Calimere to Pamban Pass 
1	The route leads about 40 miles SW across open water, from a position in the general vicinity of 09°50'N, 79°40'E to a position off Pamban, passing NW of Delft Island which has a beacon at its NW and SE point, NW of Kachchaitivu (09°23'.28N, 79°31'.30E), an island covered with scrub; and NW of Devil's Point, the N extremity of Pamban Island, which is low and sandy with many coconut trees towards its W end.
2	Rameswaram Temple is the first landmark raised when approaching Pamban Pass from N. It should not be confused with Gandhamana Temple, 1¼ miles NW of Rameswaram temple. A large clump of trees (elevation 33 m) about 7½ cables ENE of Gandhamana Temple appears, with the temple, like a pair of hills when the land is raised from N.
Storm signals are displayed at Rameswaram.

1	The N part of Pamban Pass, lying between KantheThuki Reef (close off the NW shore of Pamban Island) and shoal ground W, is well marked by buoys and beacons, the outermost of which is Outer Fairway Buoy (black and white chequered).
2	There is a dangerous wreck (3.7 m depth) lies about 4½ cables WNW of the fairway buoy. 
3	Pilots boarding vessels during the NE monsoon use a boat channel lying between Kanthe Thuki Reef and the shore SE. 
4	The N face of The Great Dam is steep-to and may appear like a wall at LW.

Chart 3016
General information
1	Position. Pamban Pass (09°17'.70 N, 79°12'.60 E) lies at the W end of Rameshwaram Island and crosses the banks which lie between that island and Mandapam. The passage provides a navigable channel, partly artificial, connecting Gulf of Mannar with Palk Bay; it is great advantage to coasting craft trading between ports on the W coast of India and those in the Bay of Bengal.
2	Topography. A rocky barrier extends in a nearly straight line between the W coast of Rameshwaram Island and Ramen Point. About 2½ cables W of Pamban island a cutting, 65 m wide, carrying Pamban Pass through the barrier, over which there is a rolling lift bridge and road bridge. 
3	The Pamban Bridge (Road Bridge and the Railway Bridge) connects the shores of Mandapam and Pamban Island.
4	The arch shaped architecture of the bridge, and its height from the sea level let the ships and boats pass beneath its piers without any disturbance (The Pamban cantilever Rail Bridge has gate like passage arrangement named “Scherzer Roll” in the middle of it, which can be raised to let ships and barges pass through.
5	It is believed that up to the first quarter of the fifteenth century Mandapam and Pamban were connected by a strip of land. A cyclone in 15th century resulted in the submergence of that connecting strip of land between Mandapam and Pamban.

6	On the W side of the cutting the barrier is named The Great Dam. It consists of large mass of rocks, having a flat surface, which were formerly portions of a causeway that extended from Pamban Island to Ramen Point; the rocks are sufficiently separated to allow a free passage to the water. About 1½ cables E of Ramen Point there is an opening in the rocks; it is however, so small, and has such a rush of water through it, that even fishing canoes never attempt to pass through.
7	Approach and entry. Pamban Pass is entered from the NE end of the Basin.
8	Local authority. The Pass is administrated by the Port Conservator, Port Office, Pamban.
E-mail: rameswarmport@gmail.com.    Phone: 04573-231422

Limiting conditions
1	Vertical clearance. Max width of channel at Rail Bridge is 65m and height of the road bridge from MSL is 16m.
2	Tidal levels.  Mean spring range about 0.6 m;
mean neaps range about 0.2 m. For details see Indian Tide
Tables.
3	Maximum size of vessels handled. 	Max size of any vessel 70 m in length max breadth 25m with max draught of 2.3m. 
4	Local weather. 	Pamban Pass is well protected from the full force of the SW monsoon by Pulli Reef to the S.
5	Storm signals are displayed from a flag staff opposite to the port office building.

Arrival information 
1	Bridge opening notice. Railway Bridge is opened on either Tuesday or Friday of every week after a request, clearance form Railway authorities, which is given by Port conservator, Pamban at least 24 hours in advance. Pamban Channel transit shall be allowed only in fair weather conditions during daylight hours and in working days only. The lift bridge is under the Port Conservator, Pamban. Vessels desirous to cross the bridge are to submit details five days in advance to Pamban Port Conservator and follow the procedure system adopted at Pamban port; however, in an emergency it can be opened immediately.
2	Pilotage is compulsory for merchant vessels navigating Pamban Pass. Two licensed pilots are available with port. The licensed pilots at Pamban are under the orders of the Pamban Port Conservator; they are stationed at Kundugal Point (09°15'.58N, 79°13'.31E), Mundel Point (09°16'.38N, 79°12'.35E) and on the N side of the Pass to look out for vessels approaching Pamban. There are no signals for vessels requiring a pilot but local craft usually display a red or white flag.	Pilots can also be obtained at Kilakkarai.

The Pass 
1	Aids to navigation. The Pass is well marked with beacons and buoys and is easy to navigate.
2	Bridge signals. Flag P of The International Code of Signals displayed from the port office’s flagstaff to denote that the bridge is fully open; displayed from the N yardarm. This flag denotes that vessels from N may pass through, and from the S yardarm, that vessels from the S have priority.
3	Tidal streams. In the approaches, the in-going tidal stream sets W through Kundagal Channel then to W along the N edge of Pulli Reef where it joins with the in-going stream setting N through Puma Channel, the combined streams then set N, but they are weak unless accelerated by strong S winds..
4	The stream, in Pamban Pass, is only noticeable at the change of the monsoon in March, April and October; at other times it is masked by the S-going current during the NE monsoon and by the N-going current during the SW monsoon, these often attain rates of 6 kts, making passage of the pass difficult even for powered vessels.
5	Caution. Vessels approaching Pamban Pass with a draught of more than 4.6 m should not approach within depths of 15 m until their position has been accurately determined. Less water than charted was reported in the S approaches as shown on the chart.
	
From South-east
4.27
1	Kundugal Channel (09°15'.00N, 79°15'.00E) is the better and more direct approach to Pamban Pass from S. Having passed the outlying dangers, steer to pass E of Kallaru Reef for a position ESE of Kundugal Point from where the channel leads W into Kundugal Gut, passing: 
2	N of Kallaru Reef (09°14'.47N, 79°14'.30E), upon which the sea breaks heavily along its S edge. Shingle Tivu, a low island covered with scrub is situated on the reef, with a beacon on its E side. Then keep to the deep water channel, passing:
3	N of Kursadi Tivu (09°14'.92N, 79°12'.88E), a long narrow island with a fishery research station situated at its E end, and close S of the beacon (lateral) (09°15'.12N, 79°12'.97E) standing on Kundugal Point, a low and sandy point, and N of Pulli Reef, then to Close SW of a buoy (safe water) (09°15'.42N, 79°12'.31E) and NE of a beacon (lateral) standing close N of Pulli Reef, then to Close SW of a buoy (safe water) (09°15'.56N, 79°12'.14E) and across Horseshoe Bank then to:
4	SW of a beacon (lateral) (09°15'.83N, 79°11'.85E) marking the drying bank extending SW from Mundel Point, then to NE of the buoy (safe water) (09°15'.82N, 79°11'.59E) marking the shoal ground on the W side of the deeper water at the junction of Sand Bank Channel and The Basin.
5	From a position NE of the buoy (safe water) the route leads NE through The Basin, a narrow channel marked on its NW side by beacons, towards the S entrance of Pamban Pass.

Useful marks 
1	South East Port Beacon (white, 5 m in height) (09°15'.68N, 79°15'.80E) standing 1¾ miles E of Kundugal Point. Another beacon stands on the coast 4 cables W of South East Port Beacon.
2	South Toni Beacon (white, 7 m in height) (09°16'.88N, 79°10'.80E) standing 6½ cables W of Ramen Point.

From South-west 
1	Puma Channel lying between Pulli Shoal and Manalli Reef demands navigation by eye to negotiate the reefs described below. From the vicinity of 09°09'.00N, 79°12'.00E the route leads initially NNW before turning NE through Puma East Channel to join Kundugal Channel.
2	Leading Lights.
	Front light (white beacon) (09°16'.61N, 79°08'.80E) (on the foreshore 5 cables W of Mandapam Dry Dock (09°16'.60N, 79°09'.40E)).
	Rear light (white beacon) (on a low hill 2 cables from front light).
	The alignment (338°) of these lights leads through Puma Channel, passing:
3	ENE of Manalli Reef (09°13'.00N, 79°09'.60E), a coral reef which dries in places and is well marked on its S and E side by breaking seas. New Islet and Manalli Tivu lie 1½ and 2 miles W, respectively, from the E edge of the reef. Then to WSW of Pulli Shoal (09°13'.51N, 79°11'.03E), an isolated shoal over which the sea breaks. Then to:
4	WSW of Pulli Reef (09°13'.80N, 79°11'.45E), an extensive coral reef which dries in places; its N edge is well defined at low water but its S edge is much indented and the sea breaks onto it. Three islands are situated on the reef; Pumurichan Tivu, along the W edge, has a conspicuous beacon (10 m in height) standing on its SW side; to the SE is Kovi Tivu and at the E end is Kursadi Tivu.
5	When NE of Cano Paru Reef (09°14'.21N, 79°09'.40E), which covers and uncovers, alter course NE to pass through Puma East channel which lies NW of Pulli Reef, it is unmarked and has a least depth of 2.8 m.
6	When clear of Puma East Channel steer to pass along the N edge of Pulli Reef into the channel marked by beacons, lying between this reef and Horseshoe Bank, which leads to Sand Bank Channel.

Useful marks
1	Beacon (white) (09°12'.90N, 79°08'.10E) standing close NE of Manalli Tivu
                                                                                                           
Anchorage
1	Anchorage may be obtained in Kundugal Channel in depths of 5.8 to 7 m. Small vessels can anchor W of Kundugal Gut, with protection in all weathers, in depths of 3 to 3.4 m.
2	Anchorage may also obtained N of Pamban Bridge as shown on the chart.

Mandapam 
1	Mandapam (09°16'.60 N, 79°09'.40 E), a harbour for small craft, lies 3 miles W of Pamban Island.

Directions
Principal marks                           
1	Landmarks. North Transit Forward mark (09°17'.04 N, 79°09'.60 E), North Transit Aft mark (09°16'.96N,79°09'.56 E), South Transit forward mark (09°16'.61N,79°08'.79 E),
2	Vessels should pass through Puma Channel as described, then to pass 2½ cables ENE of Cana Paru Reef (09°14'.26 N, 79°09'.41 E) and continue on the 338°  leading line unlit 1¼ miles from the front light; from this point onwards local knowledge is necessary. 	                   
3	Berths. There is a small boat basin. A 93 m long Coastguard Jetty (09°17'.05 N, 79°09'.56 E) with 2 m depth alongside available, but local knowledge is required for navigate to jetty as depth in the area is not uniform.
					PAMBAN ISLAND TO TUTICORIN
General information
Charts 262, 224, 317
Route
1	The route leads 28 miles W from a position SSW of Pamban Island to 22 miles SW to a position E of Tuticorin (08°48'.02N, 78°09'.62E).

Topography
1	The coast is generally low, sandy and covered with palm trees between Tuticorin and Mandapam (09°16'.60N, 79°09'.40E). Detached shallow flats, on some of these shallow flats low islands are situated, lie up to 5 miles offshore along much of this stretch of coast. 

Depths 
1	Many outlying shoals lie within the 10 m depth contour between Tuticorin and Valinokkam Point (09°09'.53N, 78°39'.43E), seaward of the shoals there are extensive pearl banks. South of the islands extending E of Valinokkam Point, depths are fairly regular but in places overfalls occur. 
	
Currents
1	Currents are subject to large changes in set and rate during the course of a year.

Development
1	Sethusamudram Ship Canal Project is awaiting government clearance.

Principal marks
1	Landmarks.
	Water tower (18 m in height) (08°58'.37N, 78°12'.14E).
	Sand patch (09°15'.49N, 78°51'.79E).
	Pamban Island Lighthouse (09°17'.28N, 79°13'.11E). 
	Radio Tower (09°17'.54N, 79°18'.27E) (3.196).
2	Major lights:
Pandiyan Island Light (08°47'.14N, 78°11'.83E).Kilakkarai Light (white 6-sided concrete tower, red       bands, 30 m in height) (09°13'.59N, 78°46'.87E). 

Other aid to navigation
1	Racon. Pandiyan Island Light (08°47'.14N, 78°11'.83E).
2	AIS. Pandiyan Island Light and Kilakkarai Light 

Passage
1	The route leads 28 miles SW from a position S of Pamban Island to a position S of Valinokkam Point, passing:
2            S of the chain of islands which extend E from the point, and clear of a shoal patch (09°07'.24N, 78°59'.47E) with a depth of 4.6 m; a dangerous wreck lying (position approximate) lies about 4½ miles WNW
3	S of shoal patch (09°04'.77N, 78°43'.46E), with a depth of 9.0 m, then the route leads about 22 miles SW from a position S of Valinokkam Point (09°09'.53N, 78°39'.43E) to a position E of Tuticorin, passing SW of a stranded wreck (09°01'.59N, 78°23'.23E).
4	SW of a string of islands which extend about 11 miles NNE of Tuticorin. The islands are fringed with reefs and detached rocks. 
5	Caution. 	Large vessels should not navigate in depths of less than 22 m and therefore may not sight any of the islands of which the chains are composed.

Useful marks
1	Beacon (9 m in height) (08°50'.06N, 78°12'.86E) standing on the S side of Van Island.
	Uppu Tanni Island (09°05'.34N, 78°29'.47E).
           Shalli Island (09°06'.25N, 78°32'.22E), a low islet fringed by a reef with another island lying close E.
	Nalla Tanni Island (09°06'.30N, 78°34'.70E).
	Beacon (6 m in height) (09°09'.53N, 78°39'.43E) standing on Valinokkam Point.

Anchorage
1	Anchorage may be obtained 5½ miles E of Pallanamarudur (08°55'.30N, 78°10'.97E) in a depth of about 8 to 9 m.

Veppalodai Anchorage
General information
Charts 2037
1 	Position. Veppalodai Anchorage (08°55'.00 N, 78°16'.80 E) is an open roadstead and offers some protection during fair weather season. The anchorage can be obtained about two miles SSE of Vilangu Shuli Island, in 9 m depth.
2 	 Topography. The coast in the area is low and sandy fringed with palm trees and small shrubs. Along the backshore lies vast expanse of salt pans. The KariyaShuli, Vilangu Shuli and Koswari islands are low lying with small shrubs.
3 	Berths/Anchorages.    Small fishing jetty (08°53.3’ N, 78°10.5’ E). Good anchorage can be obtained 02 miles SSE of Vilangu Shuli Island in 9 m depth.
4	Depths. Many outlying shoals lie within 10 m contour. The Kariya Shuli, Vilangu Shuli and Koswari Islands are surrounded by coral reefs extending   about 5-6 cables. It is recommended that vessels remain seaward of 10 m contour while passing Koswari Island. Smaller vessels with less than 3.5 m draught may pass between Kariya Shuli and Valinga Shuli during daytime. Seaward of 10 m contour lie Pearl Banks with numerous shoals with depth less than 10 m.

Valinokkam 

General information
Charts 2037
This port has been denotified vide Tamil Nadu Government Gazette No. 48, dated 29.11.2017 & G.O. (4D) No. 2, Highways and Minor Ports (HM1) Department, dated 10.11.2017

1 	Position and function. (09° 09’.50 N, 78° 39’.50 E). The Port is located in Ramanathapuram District (South of Rameswaram Island) where Shipbreaking activities were taking place in 90's.  Due to environment reasons, these activities were stopped. Currently, there is no activity in this Port
2 	Topography. The coast in the area is low and sandy fringed with palm trees and small bushes. The creek north of Valinokkam extends well inshore and has numerous salt pans in the vicinity.
3	Port Limits. The port limits are approximately as follows:
	West boundary; from shore, a line drawn S along the longitude 78°38.4’ E to 09°05.1’ N.
	South boundary; a line joining positions (09° 05.1’ N, 78° 38.4’ E) and (09° 05.1’ N, 78° 42.9’ E).
  	East boundary; from shore, a line drawn     S, along Long (78°42.9’ E to 09° 5.1’ N).
4	Port authority. The port is under the control of Assistant Port Conservator, Port Office, Valinokkam, 	Ramanathapuram District. Tamil Nadu, India. No major jetty or berthing place is available. 
5 	Useful marks.
	Ruined beacon (6 m in height) (09°09'.50N, 78°39.50'E) standing on Valinokkam point.
  	Water tower (09°09'.80N, 78°38'.80E) NW of Valinokkam    point.
  	Mobile tower (09°11'.70N, 78°43'20E) near Chinna Ervadi
  	Stranded wreck (09°11'.00N, 78°38'.00E) 2 ½ miles NNW of Valinokkam point.
6	Anchorages. There are anchorages 2 ½ miles S and 2 miles of NE of Valinokkam Point.
7 	Caution. A dangerous underwater rock lies 7 cables WSW of the anchorage.
8 	Directions. The anchorage South of Valinokkam point can be approached from SE between Pearl Banks and Anaipar Island keeping clear of 10 m contour.
9	Anchorage NE of Valinokkam point is recommended only for small crafts due to shallow depth between Valinokkam point and Anaipar Island. Anchorage affords good protection from sea, however caution is required during high winds and bad weather due to vicinity of land.
10	Depths. Many outlying shoals within 10 m contour. Seaward of 10 m contour lie Pearl Banks with least charted   depths of 7.7 m.

Anchorage
1	An anchorage is charted 5½ miles E of Pallanamarudur (8º 55' N, 78º 11' E),


Other names
1	KariyaShulli Island (8º 57'.00 N, 78º 15'.00 E). 
	Koswari Island (8º 52'.00 N, 78º 14'.00 E). 
	Vaippar (9º 02'.00 N, 78º 15'.00 E), a village. 
	Vaippar River (9º 01'.00 N, 78º 16'.00 E).
	Van Island (8º 50'.00 N, 78º 13'.00 E).
	Vembar (9º 05'.00 N, 78º 22'.00 E), a town. 
	VilanguShulli Island (8º 56'.00 N, 78º 16'.00 E).

Kilakarai Channel
Charts 262, 224
General information
1	Description. Kilakarai Channel leads between the coast and the chain of islands extending 28 miles E from Valinokkam Point (09°09'.53N, 78°39'.43E). The channel, which affords smooth passage for about half the distance between Tuticorin and Pamban, is only suitable for small vessels with shallow draught.
2	Controlling depths. There are numerous shoals, with depths of 1.8 m or less, some of which have narrow and undefined channels between them.
3	Pilotage. Pilots for this channel and for Pamban Pass are stationed at Kilakkarai (09°13'.59N, 78°46'.87E).
4	Local knowledge is necessary for passage through the channel and for its anchorages.
5	Storm signals are displayed at Kilakkarai; the brief system is used.

Directions
1	The route leads N from a position S of Valinokkam Point to enter the channel between that point and Anaipar Island, 2 miles ESE, then steer to pass S of a below-water rock marked by a beacon, 4 miles ENE of Valinokkam Point; when clear of the rock, follow the deep water passage NE to the vicinity of Kilakkarai anchorage. Then to;
2	Steer ENE from a position S of Kilakkarai until the W end of Talairi Tivu (09°10'.81N, 78°54'.00E) bears 126° and alter course towards it keeping two white leading beacons on the coast NW in line, this alignment (306° astern) leads over a shoal with a depth of 4.1 m; then the channel follows the deeper water ENE and crosses a bar with a least depth of 4.3 m. Then to:
3	The route leads E, Keeping clear of the shoals lying N of MuliTivu, 9 miles E of TalairiTivu, and follows the deep-water passage to the W entrance of Puma Channel, passing between the foul ground extending N from ManalliTivu(09°12'.95N, 79°07'.74E) and S of Kolimuruka Reef (09°13'.98N, 79°08'.65E).

Kilakarai
General information
Chart 2075
 1	Position and function. Kilakarai is a small fishing harbour situated near Ramanathapuram. Kilakarai is just on the outskirts of Ramanathpuram (Ramnad), 16 km away from the City Centre.
2	Traffic. Only fishing vessels use this harbour.
3	Controlling depths. There are numerous shoals, with depth of less than1.8 m, and the narrow undefined channel between them.
4	Jetty. There is an ‘L’ shape Jetty on the SW of old pier, used by fishing trawlers. Old Jetty, is broken and abandoned. 
5	Entry. Kilakarai is an open harbour and there are no marker buoys or leading marks present.
6	Port authority. The port is under the control of Assistant Director of Fisheries, Ramnathpuram. No major jetty or berthing place is available. There is no port office / port control tower.
		
1	Periya Pattanam. Anchorage for small vessels, with some shelter from the SW monsoon, may be found in depths from 5 to 9 m SE of Periya Pattanam (09°16'.00N, 78°54'.00E). 

TUTICORIN
General information
Chart 2075
Position and function
1	“Tuticorin (Tuttukuddi) is the largest commercial town on the W side of the 	Gulf of Mannar. The port is an open roadstead, well-protected by the land to the W from the SW Monsoon; it is available in all seasons.
2	 The former Tuticorin Port Trust changed its name to V. O. Chidambaranar Port Trust in January, 2011. The all-weather harbour of New Tuticorin, about 0.5 nm S of Tuticorin, handles the majority of cargo for the port. The port is protected on its N side by North Breakwater, which is 2.3 miles long, and on its S side by South Breakwater and Eastern Breakwater.
3	The entrance to the harbour lies 3 miles SE of PandiyanTivu Light. V.O. Chidambaranar Port is located strategically close to the International sea routes on the South Eastern coast of India. Port is well sheltered from the fury of storms and cyclonic winds. The port is operational round the clock all through the year”.

Topography
1	The coast surrounding the port is low, sandy and fringed with coconut trees; there are hardly any conspicuous landmarks from the offing outside of the port area. There are several outlying shoals and reefs in the vicinity of the port.

Port Authority
1	V.O. Chidambaranar Port Trust, Harbour estate, Tuticorin beach road, Tuticorin, Tamilnadu – 628 004, India.
	E-mail: info@vocport.gov.in 
	Website: www.vocport.gov.in
	Tel:91-461-2352290, 94432-89568
	Fax:91-461-2352301

Limiting conditions
1	Controlling depth.	 The approach channel is 2400 m long and183 m wide is dredged to a depth of 12.8 m.The turning basin which is inside the breakwaters has a depth of 11.9 m and id 500 m in diameter 
2	Tidal levels. Mean spring range about 0.7 m; mean neap range about 0.1 m. see information in Tide Tables. 
Arrival information
Port operations
1	Vessels with a maximum draught in excess of 10.7 m shall be berthed at HW only.
2	Restrictions upon LPG and chemical tankers berthing at night.

Notice of ETA
1	At least 72 hours, followed by 24 hours; confirmation or amendment must be made not less than 6 hours prior to arrival.
Outer anchorages
1	The following anchorages are available, the limits of most of which are shown on the chart, with positions from East Breakwater Head Light (08°44’.90 N, 78°13’.55 E): 

Designation 	Position 	Remarks 
Vessels less than 100 m in length	1¼ miles ENE 	Depth about 9.9 m 
Vessels more than 100 m in length 	2¼ miles E  	Depth about 14.2 m 
Tankers 	3½ miles 
ENE 	Depth about 15.9 m 
Deep-water 
anchorage 	3¼ miles 
ENE 	Depth about 14.2 m 
General 	2¼ miles SE 	Depth about 12 m, 
good holding,
 mainly sand and shingle 
2	Dangerous cargo anchorage. The explosive anchorage is situated 3¼ miles SE of Pandyantivu lighthouse.
3	Caution. During the NE monsoon vessels should have a good scope of cable and a second anchor always ready.	In the SW monsoon, from about mid-May to mid-August, the wind, though sometimes violent, is invariably offshore and the sea is calm or slight.
Pilotage and tugs
1	Pilotage is compulsory and is available 24 hours.
2	The pilot boarding positions are, vessels with a draught of less than 9m, close NW of fairway lighted buoy and vessels with a draught of 9m and over, 1mile E of fairway lighted buoy.
3	Tugs are available.

Quarantine
1	Pratique may be requested by radio.  For details see Indian List of Radio Signals Volume 1.

Harbour
General layout
1	The artificial harbour extends ESE from a peninsula at the S end of Pandiyan Island (08°47'.14N, 78°11'.83E), which is joined to the peninsula due to reclamation; it is protected on its N side by North Breakwater and on its S side by South Breakwater and East Breakwater, the entrance lies 3 miles SE of Pandiyan Island Light.
2	The main berthing areas are on the inner sides of South and East Breakwaters, and within a recess located towards the E end of North Breakwater on its inner side.
A turning basin, 488 m in diameter, is situated close within the harbour entrance.

Development
1	Four berths are under constructions along the inner side of North Breakwater.
Signals
1	Storm signals are displayed from a signal station with a flagstaff (32 m in height) standing near the NE end of East Breakwater. Another signal station with a flagstaff (29 m in height) standing 1½ cables N of Pandiyan Island Light; the general system is used. 
Current
1	The tidal rise at Tuticorin is 1m at MHWS and 0.7m at near MHWN. The currents along the coast, outside the islands near Tuticorin, generally set with the wind, varying in strength from 1 to 2 knots. They are weak and variable at the change of the monsoons. When there is a lull in the monsoon, there is a tendency for current to set into, instead of across, the Gulf of Mannar. The tidal currents at Tuticorin set in a N direction with the flood tide and in a S direction with the ebb.
2	The currents along the coast, outside the islands near Tuticorin, generally set with the wind, varying in strength from 1 to 2 knots. They are weak and variable at the change of the monsoons.

Directions
Principal marks
1	Landmarks.
	Three chimneys, orientated E/W, (red and white lights, 121 to 210 m in height) (08°45'.76N, 78°10'.55E). 
	Water tower (27 m in height) (08°45'.10N, 78°11'.13E).
	Water tower (22 m in height) (08°45'.23N, 78°10'.14E). 
	Spic tower (68 m in height) (08°44'.47N, 78°08'.52E).
2	Major light. PandiyanTivu Light (white round concrete tower with black diagonal stripes, 23 m in height) (08°47'.14N, 78°11'.83E), standing 2 cables S of the N extremity of Pandiyan Island.

Other aids to navigation
1	Racon& AIS. PandiyanTivu Light 

Approach and entry
1	If making the port from S or NE, particularly at night, the approach should be made from well to seaward of all off-lying dangers that extend from the coast; the ship's position should be accurately determined before closing the anchorage. 
2	From the vicinity 08°43'.00N, 78°16'.00E the route leads NW passing close NE of Fairway Light-buoy No 18.

1	Leading lights:
Front light (White metal framework tower, red bands, elevation 20 m) (on North Breakwater near the root of Coal jetty (08°45'.37N, 78°13'.09E)).
	Middle light (White metal tower, red bands) (425 m from front).
	Rear light (White metal framework tower, black bands, elevation 59 m) (on the reef 1½ miles NW of the 	front light).
	The alignment (311½°)of these lights leads, through a channel marked by light-buoys at its inner end, to 	the harbour entrance which is about 1 cable wide and lies between a short spur extending SW from North 	Breakwater and the head of East Breakwater. 
2	Leading lights.
	Front light (on South Breakwater between Berth No 1 and 5) (08°44'.71N, 78°12'.86E).
	Rear light about 100 m from front light.
	The alignment (244°) of these lights leads to Berth No 1 to 6. Lights are also exhibited from the heads of 	North and East Breakwaters and from the head of the spur which forms the N entrance point.
Useful marks
1	The following are useful marks.
	Obelisk (white) (08°45'.08N, 78°11'.50E).
	Disused lighthouse (08°47'.22N, 78°11'.83E).
Berths
1	At present there are 14 berths with capacity of 33.34 million tons per annum (MTPA), all situated within two breakwaters in VOC Port Trust. Alongside berths (positioned from North Breakwater head light (8044’.8N, 78013’.8E).
	South Wharf (5 cables WSW) There are four berths, two with a depth of 9.3 m alongside and Two with 10.7m depth., on South Wharf, which lies on the inner side of e breakwater; general cargo is handled at No. 1 berth; Nos. 2, 3 and 4 berths handle cement, salt and fertilizer, respectively. Berths No.1 and 2 can each accommodate vessels with a maximum length of 183m; Berths No. 3 and 4 can accommodate vessels with a maximum length of 245m.
	Berths 5 and 6 (8 cables W), each 168 m long, are situated on the SE side of quay 495 m long with a depth of 9.3 m at No. 6 berth and 8.6 m at No. 5 berth.
2	Finger Jetty (1.4 miles W) provides berthing and facilities for the Colombo ferry.
3	Coal Jetty (8 cables WNW). The coal jetty on N breakwater accommodates vessels up to 50000 dwt, with a maximum length of 225 m and a maximum draft of 12.8 m.
4	Oil Jetty (6 cables NW) located seaward of the coal jetty, can accommodate vessels with a maximum length of 228 m and a maximum draft of 12.8 m.
5	Second coal jetty (4 cables NW), is served by conveyor and flanked by dolphins; it can accommodate vessels of 50000 dwt and 235 m in length and maximum depth 12.8 m

Port services

1	Repairs. Minor repairs only. 
2	Supplies. 	Fresh water at quays, by lighter in anchorages; all kinds of provisions; fuel by road tanker, and by pipeline at oil and coal jetties.
3	Other facilities. Hospitals, De-ratting, Diving, Ballast reception facility – not available; garbage disposal available; oily waste disposal available by road tanker.

Tuticorin
(Minor port)
Chart 2075
General information
1	Position.  Tuticorin (08°48'.02N, 78°09'.62E) lies at the head of a shallow bay close NW of Tuticorin (Major Port).
	Function. 	Tuticorin, also known as Tuttukuddi, is the largest commercial town on the W side of the Gulf of Mannar. The port is an open roadstead, well-protected by the land to the W from the SW monsoon; it is available in all seasons. 
2	Approach and entry. The port is approached through a channel, 135 m wide, and entered S of Horseshoe Spit.

Limiting conditions
1	Controlling depth. There is a least depth of about 2.0 m in the approach channel. In 1992 it was reported that the channel could only be used by vessels with a maximum draught of 1.5 m, and that most of the cargo handling is by lighter from vessels at anchor.
2	Deepest and longest berth is 219 m long with a least depth of less than 3.0 m.
	Tidal levels see information in Tide Tables. Mean spring range about 0.7 m; mean neap range about 0.1 m.

Harbour
1	Layout. The port lies on the W coast of a large shallow bay which is open NE but well protected from the SW monsoon. The main berthing area is partially protected from the NE monsoon by the N harbour wall, but it is exposed to the E.
	Storm signals are displayed from a signal station with a flagstaff (29 m in height) standing at the N end 	of Pandiyan Island; the general system is used.

Directions
1	Landmarks:
	Our lady of Snows Spire church (Blue and white building with black spire, 34 m in height) (08°47'.97N, 78°09'.40E).Sacred Heart Cathedral (yellow spire, 51 m in height) (08°48'.29N, 78°09'.38E).
Harvey Chimney (45 m in height) (08°48'.38N, 78°09'.55E).
2	There are numerous dangers lying N of the anchorage areas and in the E approach to the entrance channel; throughout the approach a vessel's position should be verified frequently to ensure a safe passage.
3	From the general anchorage area the route leads NNW passing: ENE of a wreck with a least depth of 5.1 m (08°46'.01N, 78°13'.07E), a foul ground lies close E to it; then to: Clear of a wreck (08°47'.42N, 78°13'.32E),
then to clear of a dangerous wreck (08°47'.40N, 78°12'.93E) (position approximate), then to:
4	Clear of a dangerous wreck (08°47'.63N, 78°12'.76E) (position approximate), then to a position ENE of the light. Then the track leads W to the leading line to the entrance channel.
5	Leading lights:
	Front light (metal framework tower) (standing at the head of Landing Pier (08°48'.11N, 78°09'.62E)). 
	Rear light (metal framework tower) (259 m from front light).
Useful marks 
1	Water tower (19 m in height) (08°47'.66N, 78°09'.38E).
	St. Mary’s Statue (08°48'.71N, 78°09'.60E).
Berths
1	There are piers in Tuticorin (minor port) of from 42 to 145 m long and wharves from 87 to 219 m long.
2	Berthing for small vessels, protected by a breakwater from E, is situated 5 cables S of the town and adjoins the main berthing area.
Port services
1	Repairs.	 A small dry dock; 42 m in length, 15 m wide, 200 dwt of capacity with a depth on sill at MHWS of 2 m is available for local port vessels. Minor repairs can be done.
	Other facilities. Small hospital; divers.
	Supplies. Limited supply of fresh water at berths or by barge; provisions are plentiful, fuel is not available.
TUTICORIN TO KANYAKUMARI (CAPE COMORIN) 
General Information
Chart 262, 223, 224	
Route
1	The route leads 27 miles S from a position E of Tuticorin, then to 54 miles WSW to a position S of Kanyakumari (08°04'.73N, 77°33'.07E) 

Topography                                                               
1	From Tuticorin (08°48'.02N, 78°09'.62E) to Manappad Point the coast is low, sandy and fringed with coconut trees.
2	The coast WSW of Manappad Point (08°22'.37N, 78°03'.97E) to Kanyakumari is higher than that in other parts of the W side of Gulf of Mannar, with undulating sand hills up to 60m in height; the hinterland is mostly reddish soil and rises gradually to the foot of the Southern Ghats, a few miles inland. Many villages and whitewashed churches lie along this stretch of coast. The coastline is fronted by isolated dangerous rocks which is some places extend up to 1 mile offshore. 
	
Depths
1	Seaward of the 30 m depth contour there are no charted off-lying dangers. Within the 20 m depth contour, and from 10 to 13 miles offshore, there are pearl banks lying between Tuticorin and Kayalpattinam (08°33'.83N, 78°08'.04E).

Local knowledge
1	Local knowledge is essential for entry to some of the small ports and anchorages situated on this stretch of coast.
2	Vessels rounding Kanyakumari from W during the NE monsoon, having been sheltered by the land as far as Muttam Point, 14 miles W of the cape, may suddenly pass from a calm into the strength of the monsoon, similar conditions are met by vessels even if well offshore.

Natural conditions
1	Currents are subject to large changes in set and rate during the course of a year.
2	Tidal streams     Off Kanyakumari the incoming tidal streams sets E and out-going W; their strength and direction is much affected by the monsoon currents.
	
Directions
Principal marks
1	Landmarks.
	Mahendra Giri (08°23'.12N, 77°29'.37E). 
	Vivekananda Rock Memorial (28 m in height) (08°04'.75N, 77°33'.05E) standing near the end of 	Kanyakumari; another memorial stands on an islet close E of the cape. 
	St. Arockianathar church (08°04'.93N, 77°33'.12E).
               Lady of Ranson Shrine church (54 m in height) (08°05'.14N, 77°33'.13E). 
	Observatory (elevation 52 m) (08°10'.40N, 77°41'.41E). 
	Flare (08°35'.00N, 78°05'.95E), position approximate.
Numerous wind mills are located along the coast from Kanyakumari till Manappad.
2	Major lights:
	Kanyakumari Light (White square masonry tower, red bands, 30m in height) (08°04'.90N, 77°32'.77E), standing about 2½ cables NW of the cape.
Manappad Point Light (white round tower, red masonry diagonal stripes, elevation 45 m) (08°22'.37N, 78°03'.97E), stands at the extremity of the point.
PandiyanTivu Light (08°47'.14N, 78°11'.83E)

Other navigational aid
1	Racons & AIS.
	Kanyakumari Light 
	Manappad Point Light 
	PandiyanTivu Light 

Passage
1	From a position E of Tuticorin, route leads about 28 miles S to a position WNW of a point then to 20 miles farther WSW to a position S of Manappad Point, passing clear of a bank (08°27'.27N, 78°19'.67E) with a depth of 17.3 m.
2	Then to SSE then E of a number of shoals (10 to 17 miles from Manappad Point in an arc from ENE to ESE and offshore of the 20 m depth contour of the coastal bank SSE of Manappad Outer Shoal (08°17'.47N, 78°10'.24E) with a least charted depth of 7.3 m. Between the outer shoal and the coast, rocky shoal exist, with less than 10 m of water.
3	Then the route leads 34 miles WSW from a position S of the Manappad Point, a high sandy promontory based on rock to a position S of the foul ground extending about 5 cables S and SE of Kanyakumari; the chart is sufficient guide for this part of the coastal passage.
4	Kanyakumari is a low and sandy point N of which the coast rises gradually so that from a distance it appears as a sandy promontory. The cape is reported to be radar conspicuous.
5	Caution. Vessels should avoid passing through the area of the above shoals, and in reduce visibility are advised give it a wide berth. Larger vessels should navigate with caution as a large number of small fishing vessels are found in depths less than 35 m. 
6	The attention of Small vessels coasting is drawn to:
Numerous shoals and rocks, over which the sea breaks in heavy weather, lie up to about 2 miles offshore between Tiruchchendir Point and a position 7 miles NNE. And:
An area of foul ground and rocks, over which there are heavy breakers during the NE monsoon, extending 3 miles offshore between Manappad Point and a position 5 miles NE.
		  
Useful marks 
1	Lipuram Obelisk (8 m in height) (08°06'.63N, 77°33'.45E) standing close to the coast abreast a stranded wreck which it serves to mark.
2	East Cape (08°12'.35N, 77°47'.01E), a prominent cape, 28 m high, overlooking a coastal reef which extends about 1 mile offshore.
3	Beacon (white with black bands, 11 m in height) (08°23'.80N, 78°03'.82E).
4	Tiruchchendir Point (08°29'.81N, 78°07'.74E), is a low rock bluff headland, with a prominent dark-coloured tall temple standing near its point. 
	  


Anchorages and Harbours
1	Punnakayal (08°38'.16N, 78°07'.05E), a small fishing village located about 1 mile inland, may be identified by the ruins of a church and by a group of palm trees on the beach; the village can be approached through a creek. 
2	Anchorage for small vessels, in depths of 7.3m, can be found off Punnakayal about 1½ miles offshore, with the clump of trees bearing 258°; local knowledge is necessary. A dangerous wreck, position approximate, lies N of the anchorage. The coastal reef S gives shelter from S winds. 
3	The alignment (277½°) of these lights leads through the buoyed channel to the port. Several rocks and drying shoals, some marked by buoys, lie either side of the channel; their positions are shown on the chart.
4	Kayalpattinam (08°33'.83N, 78°08'.04E) is a small port which is sometimes used by coasting vessels.
5	Veerapandiyan Nagar (08°31'.20N, 78°07'.40E) is a small fishing town. Anchorage for small vessels, in depths of 2.7 to 3.7 m, may be obtained off the town but the local knowledge is necessary; the anchorage is partially protected by the coastal reef. The line of bearing of 241° of the town centre leads through a gap in the reef to the anchorage.
6	Alantalai (08°28'.04N, 78°05'.97E). A small village, where small vessel can anchor in a depth of 7.3 m, mud, with the village church bearing 292° distant 1¾ miles; the reef S offers some protection from SW winds. 
7	Kulasekarapattinam (08°24'.80N, 78°03'.30E).  A small port identified by the ruins of a large church which is partially buried in sand. Coasting vessels sometimes call the port. 
8	Talai (08°20'.16N, 77°58'.39E). Good anchorage may be obtained during the NE monsoon, in 11m, about 1 mile offshore between the town of Talai and Manappad Point (08°22'.37N, 78°03'.97E). From June to August inclusive, when the SW monsoon is strong, a heavy seas rolls into this part of the coast; during this period the anchorage should not be used. Landing in a ship's boat is difficult and dangerous at all times.
9	East Cape. Anchorage, for small vessels may be obtained in 7.6m, in the bight N of East Cape, partially protected from W winds and swell by the coast SW, but landing in a ship’s boat is always difficult and dangerous.

10	Koodankulam. Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd had developed a jetty for handling project cargo for their Nuclear Power Project at Koodankulam.  A RCC jetty with necessary break water protection has been constructed for receiving heavy lift machineries. Presently there is no activity in the port. 
11	Kanyakumari Port.  It is a large boat harbour, protected by two breakwaters, which gives connectivity to the nearby Vivekananda Rock and Thiruvalluvar Statue. Berthing facilities for the ferries and Facilities required for passenger embarking / disembarking to and from the tourist ferry is available at the port.
12	 Anchorage giving shelter from W winds can be found in the bay between East Cape (08°12'.35N, 77°47'.01E) and Kanyakumari. A pier 440 m in length extends E from close N of Kanyakumari; fishing craft are landed on the beach N of it. 
13	A fishing Harbour (08º 05'.83 N, 77º 33'.86 E) is situated near Kanyakumari. All the major trawlers operating near Kanyakumari are based at this harbour. Tamil Nadu Marine Police is also based at this harbour.

KANYAKUMARI TO VIZHINJAM
 General information
Chart 223,222
Route
	The route leads 17 miles WNW from a position S of Kanyakumari (08°04'.90 N, 77°32'.77 E) and then 27 miles NW to a position SW of Vizhinjam

Topography 
	The Coast fringed with coconut trees and backed by hills, is generally straight and sandy, with the Western Ghats in the distant background. From Colachel (08°10'.04 N, 77°15'.22 E)  to Vizhinjam about 20 miles NW, it is safe to approach the coast except near Enciam islet (08°12'.82 N, 77°10'.90 E); a little E of this islet the coast is steep with a reddish appearance. The coast is low and level between the village of Karichal (08°20'.95 N, 77°01'.98 E) and Kovalam Point, 4 miles NW.

Depths
	There is no charted dangers seaward of the 50 m depth contour. Wadge Bank, lying 25 miles SW of Kanyakumari has a least charted depth of 40 m 20 nm south.

Hazard
Heavy concentration of fishing craft may be encountered up to 9 miles SW of Vizhinjam (08°22'.97N, 76°58'.78E).



Obstruction and foul ground
1	Caution. Two obstructions, dangerous to navigation, with a least depth over it of 11.4 m and 12.5 m, lies in position 08º 02'.77 N, 77º 24'.75 E and 08º 02'.39 N, 77º 33'.60 E respectively. 
2	An undefined area of foul ground lies 1½ miles offshore, about 6 miles W of Kanyakumari.

Natural conditions
1	Currents. The currents have a seasonal variation related to the monsoon. From February to September the most frequent set is SE with the greatest constancy during June to August; during October currents are variable in direction, but from November to January the common set is NW. Rates are mostly less than 1 kn but   2 kn may be encountered at times, mainly during July, August and December. Exceptionally the current has a significant onshore component.

Principal marks
Landmarks.
1.	Mahendra Giri (08°23'.12N, 77°29'.37E), a mountain, 1657 m in height, standing 19 miles N of Kanyakumari. However, mariners are cautioned that from a great distance this mountain may be mistaken either for Marutva Malai, which appears as a pointed cone except when seen from E or S, standing about 4 miles NW of Kanyakumari; or for a range of mountains, with heights up to 1041 m and resembling a camel's hump, about 10 miles further N.

Vivekanand Rock (08°04'.75N, 77°33'.05E) 
Kanyakumari Lighthouse (08º 04'.90 N, 77º 32'.77 E)
Thiruvallur statue (08º 04'.634N, 77º 33'.23E) 
Church (54 m in height) (8º 05'.5 N, 77º 33'.0 E).
Muttam Point Lighthouse (White, 6-sided tower, black bands, 20 m in height) (08°07'.45N, 77°19'.00E).
Church (12 m in height) (8º 13' N, 77º 11' E), standing on Enciarn Islet.
St. Jude's Church (Conical mark, Green/Yellow), about 28m in height, in position (08º 15'.82 N, 77º 08'.41         E).
St. Marie's Church (Pink), about 27m in height, in position (08º 16'.76 N, 77º 06'.96 E).
Building (red roof, 58 m in height) (8º 24' N,           76º 58' E) standing on Kovalam Point; the point is reported to be radar conspicuous at 19 miles.
White house (8º 29' N, 76º 55' E) (conspicuous), which stands close NW of a palace in the form of a white rectangular building with a dull red roof.
       SE of the head of Manora Breakwater (24º 46'.74N 66 º 58'.96E), from which a light is exhibited.
   
2	Major lights.
Kanyakumari Light
 		Muttam Point Light
Thiruvananthapuram Aero Light (Radar Control Tower) (08°28'.79N, 76°55'.14E).
Vizhinjam Light. 
3	Other aids to navigation
Racons.	Kanyakumari Light 
Muttam Point Light 
Vizhinjam Light 
AIS.		Kanyakumari Light 
Vizhinjam Light 

Directions
1	The route leads 17 miles WNW from a position S of Kanyakumari to a position SSW of Muttam Point (08°07'.46N, 77°19'.00E), passing, 
2	Clear of an obstruction (08°02'.87N, 77°24'.71E), dangerous to navigation, with a least depth over it of 11.4 m. An undefined area of foul ground also lies 1½ miles offshore, about 6 miles W of Kanyakumari), then:
3	SSW of Muttam point, a point, 35 m in height, fronted by steep red cliffs, with a village and a lighthouse standing on it. A fishing harbour lies E of the point.
4	Then the route leads 27 miles NW from a position SSW of Muttam Point to a position SW of Vizhinjam, passing:


5	SW of Crocodile Rock (08°05'.10N, 77°17'.09E), which lies1½ miles SW of Adunda Rock. The sea does not break over Crocodile Rock in calm weather, although the depth over it is 2 m or less. The mast of a sunken wreck is visible close SE of Crocodile Rock.
6	SW of Kota Rock (08°07'.07N, 77°16'.86E), 6 m in height and steep-to on its W side, lies about 1.3 miles WNW of Adunda Rock. Then to SW of Enciam Rocks (08°12'.57N, 77°10'.64E).Then clear of a shoal patch 16.4 m (08°26'.65N, 76°55'.03E) to a position SW of Vizhinjam.

Cautions 
1	At night, vessels in the vicinity of Muttam Point should not approach into depths of less than 45 m on account of several dangers lying close SW and W of the point.
2	Adunda Rock, 5m high, lies about 1.3 miles SW of the Muttam point. It is difficult to identify from seaward, and foul ground extends about 0.2 mile NNW from it. Kota Rock, 6m high and steep-to on its W side, lies about 1.3 miles WNW of Adunda Rock. Vessels should not pass inbetween of Adunda and Kota Rocks.
3	Vessels, when in the vicinity of Enciam Islet at night, should not approach into depths of less than 35m which are encountered barely 2 miles seaward of the rocks in the vicinity.  

