Anchoring and clearance in Sorong

Anchoring, clearance, fuel and supplies at Sorong, the port where yachts clear in for Raja Ampat.

Picture made with AI. It shows the place but is not a photograph.

At anchor

Where yachts anchor at Sorong

These are the anchoring points that Noonsite lists for Sorong. Noonsite last updated its Sorong pages on 21 December 2024.

Inside the harbourA cruiser report on Noonsite says the authorities seem to discourage anchoring inside Sorong harbour, and that a large reclamation project is under way in the outer bay

Doom IslandNoonsite lists S 00 52.9200 E 131 14.2080 as a recommended anchoring location

Entering the lagoonNoonsite says to enter the lagoon only in daylight and to keep a good lookout for reefs

WeatherNoonsite says sudden tropical storms, at times severe, can cause problems in the main harbour area, with boats dragging and anchors becoming entangled

ChartsNoonsite says paper charts and GPS can vary by up to 500 m

SecurityNoonsite says security in the Sorong area is a concern. Thieves target mainly unattended boats, and cruisers reported being boarded in 2023

Clearance

Permits and clearance

CAIT permit

Bird's Head Seascape says the Clearance Approval Indonesian Territory (CAIT) is a three-month single-entry permit. It says this can be done at many ports in Indonesia, including Bali and Sorong. Check the rules for your passport.

Temporary importation

A vessel is temporarily imported into Indonesia during inspections at international clearance. It is inspected again on international departure. Bird's Head Seascape says this can be done at Sorong. Check the rules for your passport.

Port of entry

Ministry of Transport rule PM 14/2023 lists Pelabuhan Sorong among the entry and exit ports and terminals for foreign yachts. Noonsite calls Sorong an official Port of Entry.

Agent or no agent

What sources say about clearance

NoonsiteNo agent is required, and customs and immigration officials will come out to the boat. Noonsite advises clearance from the Harbour Master before leaving a boat for any length of time, to avoid harbour fees on return. (Updated 21 December 2024.) Check the rules for your passport.

Seal SuperyachtsSorong has a reputation for difficult clearances and permits. Seal says some of it may be unwarranted, and that Sorong has slightly different readings of the rules on long stay visas. Check the rules for your passport.

Services

Fuel and supplies in Sorong

FuelNoonsite says jerry cans can be filled at Pertamina stations in town. For larger amounts it names the fuel dock at Helena Marina, south of Sorong town.

Fresh foodA market north-west of the dinghy dock, with fresh food including fish if you go early

SupermarketsSaga is closest to the dinghy dock. Ramayana is a short bemo ride away. Mega is the largest and lies past the airport

TransportLocal minibuses called bemos serve Sorong

AgentsIndonusa Marine Services lists provisioning with delivery by private tender, and bunkering

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