Harbor As Haven

• Durrës Harbor is an artificial basin that is formed between two moles. The East Mole extends south-southwestward along the east side of the basin. The West Mole, forming the southern limit of the harbor, extends southeast and east from the shore. The resulting west-northwesterly oriented entrance is approximately 200 yd (183 m) wide as it passes between the ends of the moles.

• The Port of Durrës has approximately 2,503 ft (763 m) of alongside pier space on the West Mole, with additional space on the west side of the harbor, providing ten berths for ocean-going vessels. Pier specifications are listed in Table 1. All piers have adequate fendering. A tanker berth is located on the East Mole. A fishing harbor lies at the north end of the East Mole.

• Several wrecks are located just west of the buoy line marking the entrance channel to the Port of Durrës. In the south part of the Bay of Durrës, shallow water and underwater rocks (Selada Shoals) pose a hazard to ships north of the Cape of Lagjit (Kepi i Lagjit). Because of these dangers, the use of a pilot is deemed necessary to enter the port. Pilots are available 24-hours/day. Pilots embark/debark in the vicinity of 41°15'18"N 19°25'48"E, approximately 1 nmi southwest of Buoy 10. Buoys 9 and 10 mark the southern end of the buoyed channel. The pilots are said to speak little English but are very familiar with the harbor.

• The use of tugboats is mandatory at the Port of Durrës. Two medium-sized tugs are available.

• Ships in the Port of Durrës are required to maintain a watch on VHF channels 15 (working) and 16 (international). Both channels broadcast in English.

• A 1988 edition of Mediterranean Pilot, Volume III states: "On account of the presence of mines Gjiri I Durrësit should be approached in daylight only, and when Kala e Turrës and Shkëmbi i Kavajës cannot be seen it is imprudent to approach Durrës harbour." During a May 1998 port visit, however, local harbor authorities stated that the water around the port is now clear of mine hazards.

• A Fleet Landing for U.S. Navy ships is established when necessary on Pier 5 in the corner of the quay at the junction of Piers 4 and 5. Small boats operated by the port can operate in seas up to 6.6 ft (2 m) in height, and would expect an anchored ship to provide a lee for safe on/off loading of boats in the anchorage.