📕 New Rules for Transiting the Turkish Straits
The Turkish Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, through the General Directorate of Maritime Affairs, has published an updated Directive on the Regulation of Maritime Traffic in the Turkish Straits.
The document, which takes effect on October 13, 2025, introduces several changes aimed at enhancing safety and efficiency of navigation through the Bosporus and Dardanelles.
🔹 Key Updates
1. Night passage for large containerships
Container vessels measuring 300 meters LOA or more are now permitted to transit the straits during nighttime, a practice that was previously prohibited.
This change is expected to reduce anchorage waiting times and ease daytime traffic congestion.
2. Updated ETA notification requirements
Container and passenger ships with a length of 300 meters or more must now notify the Dardanelles VTS Center of any ETA changes exceeding 30 minutes, no later than 6 hours before the expected arrival time.
3. Increased permitted towing length
For Turkish tugboats engaged in underwater or port operations, the maximum allowed towing length has been extended from 90 to 120 meters, improving maneuvering flexibility and safety.
4. Night passage for LPG vessels in ballast
LPG carriers measuring 150–199.99 meters in length, when in ballast condition, are now allowed to transit the Dardanelles at night, provided they are accompanied by a pilot and tug escort.
5. Navigation safety recommendations
To further enhance safety, the directive strongly recommends the use of pilots and tugs for the following vessels:
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All ships 200 meters or longer;
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All ships (except passenger vessels) 250 meters or longer not carrying dangerous cargo.
🧭 The updated directive reflects Turkey’s effort to improve traffic capacity, reduce navigational risks, and enhance operational efficiency in one of the world’s busiest maritime corridors.
