MARINE SAFETY INFORMATION BULLETIN

[MSIB # 21-13]

December 06, 2013

MARCUS HOOK RANGE DREDGING OPERATIONS

The U.S. Coast Guard is establishing a safety zone for dredging operations in Marcus Hook Range in the Delaware River beginning December 10, 2013 until January 31, 2014. During this time, the Dredge ESSEX will be operating within the upriver portion of Marcus Hook Range, north of the Sunoco Marcus Hook Refinery. The safety zone includes all waters within a 150 yard radius of the Dredge ESSEX and all related dredging equipment. Vessels requesting to transit Marcus Hook Range shall contact the Dredge ESSEX on VHF channel 13 or 16, 30 minutes prior to arrival. Vessels shall then transit around the dredge project, utilizing the upriver portion of the Marcus Hook Anchorage above Sunoco Marcus Hook Refinery, while operating at the minimum safe speed necessary to maintain steerage and reduce wake.

During this time period, the upper portion of the anchorage shall be closed with the exception of transiting traffic. Vessels desiring to anchor within the downriver portion of Marcus Hook Anchorage must obtain permission from the Captain of the Port at least 24 hours in advance, at (215) 271-4807. The COTP will permit one vessel at a time in Marcus Hook Anchorage on a "first-come, first-served" basis. Vessels will not be permitted to occupy the anchorage beyond 24 hours. Vessels are encouraged to use Mantua Creek Anchorage (Anchorage #9) and Deepwater Point Anchorage (Anchorage #6) as alternatives.

The operator of any vessel in the safety zone shall proceed as directed by the designated representative of the Captain of the Port and shall contact the Dredge ESSEX on VHF channel 13 or 16, for passing information.

K. MOORE
Captain, U.S. Coast Guard
Captain of the Port, Delaware Bay