The Ice Campaign within the Azov Sea came into force as of February 3rd 2017. A local correspondent reported that The Mariupol port Harbour masters order No 21 was in effect. UK P&I Club said that when members’ vessels were planning to call at Ukrainian ports within the Azov Sea they must liaise with the agent and clarify precise information about the weather conditions on the estimate date of arrival.
The specific information regarding the Ice Campaign can be accessed by visiting the Club’s Correspondent website www.pandi.com.ua.
Ice navigation is permitted for ice-classed vessels or at least with the confirmation of Classification society to navigate in the concrete ice conditions in each particular case. The ice breaker convoy is a compulsory requirement for navigation in ice conditions at Azov Sea.
Where there is any possibility for the vessel being sent to any Azov sea port which is ice-bound on her arrival or where the onset of ice may cause the Master to decide to leave the port before cargo operations are completed, the suitable ICE Clause should be included in the charter party and in bills of lading.
Azov Sea Ice Conditions Chart is available here: http://meteo.seamap.com.ua/IceSea/AzovSea.htm
Meanwhile, Standard Club reports that an Ice campaign has been declared at Odessa port, Ukraine. Members are advised that due to ice conditions at Odessa port, Ukraine the Harbour Master has declared an ice campaign to ensure the safe navigation of ships with effect from January 18, 2017. For Odessa ice conditions consult http://www.dias-co.com/ice-condition