The Port of Maputo contains two main port areas.

There are two access channels from the open sea leading into Maputo Bay, the North Channel with a limiting depth of 11m (Canal do Norte) and the South Channel with a limiting depth of 8m (Canal do Sul). Both channels pass to the North of Portuguese Island (Ilha dos Portugueses) and are well marked by light buoys. Masters should exercise caution when using the South Channel and are recommended to contact the Port Authority for latest information until further notice.

The distance from the North Channel entrance at Buoy 1N to the Pilot Station at Buoy 6 is 25 miles, while the distance from the South Channel entrance at Buoy 1S to the Pilot Station is 13 miles. From the Pilot Station at Buoy 6 the Xefina, Polana and Matola Channels lead into the wharves and terminals.

Ships arriving from the South and using the South Channel save a steaming distance of approx 30 miles.

Depths

Location	Depth limits *
South Channel	8,00m
North Channel	11m
Xefina and Polana Channels	11m
Matola Channel	11m

* All depths are below chart zero and the actual tide is to be added (max. 3,9 m and minimum 0,2 m). The tide table is published by INAHINA (Instituto Nacional de Hidrografia e Navegação).All navigational aids are provided and maintained by INAHINA.

Port Operations

Working Hours	363 days a year, 24 hours/day
Office Hours	07h30-17h30
Pilotage	Compulsory; 24 hour service Pilots board ships east of Buoy 6 at the entrance to the Xefina Channel Outbound vessels drop pilot at the same position Ships are requested to make a good lee for safe boarding of the pilot Pilotage may be suspended if wind exceeds Beaufort 6 (24 knots)
Anchorage	Outer anchorage located near Buoy 1N Inner anchorage located eastwards of Buoy 6 There are no underwater obstructions in the anchorages
Tugs	Two 37 tonne bollard pull Z-peller diesel harbour tugs Compulsory for all vessels except Coasters and Fishing Boats.
Arrivals	Announcement to be made 48hrs, 24hrs, 12hrs and 2hrs prior to arrival at the Pilot Station
Radio	Through Posto Radio Naval de Maputo, call sign PRN-Maputo. Calling frequencies: 2182kHz and VHF Channel 16, 24 hour services.