Does anyone have any experiences, good or bad, to share regarding t Port State Control visits in Dakar?
I’ve heard some unsubstantiated horror stories and would like to get some real life info.
Thanks!
I haven’t been there in 40 years but I would make sure that I had plenty of cartons of Marlboros for my new “friends”!
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I managed to side step visiting after my calls there for close to 50 years but a company I worked for about 10 years ago had a budget for port calls ranging from a grand to 2.5K for cigarettes and spirits. Nigeria was the most expensive.
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India seemed to prefer 555 cigarettes and scotch. It was possible to get a special brand of scotch in Singapore well priced but I’m not sure that Scotland would own up to bottling it.
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There are 2 inspectors. The older one is always in bad mood trying to catch you in every small thing for after make a money deal.
The other one is a very correct man but if he found something wrong he will want a deal too but a fair one.
Another point is the authorities that will come on board, specially the customs agents.
Each team wants money, you have to minimize it dealing with them. Be patient. Be always kind, if you have some fault apologize to them and start to deal with 200 €.
The Gard have some recommendations regarding the port of Dakar.
Your Port agent will guide you in how to deal with them. He will be on board with you. Check carefully all the required documentation for each authorities and good luck.
My Dakar and other West African experience was many years ago but mirrors Javier’s and the others. Agent took good care of our vessels but can’t change usual practices on that coast. We budgeted the vessels 3000 dollars per voyage for “gifts”. All items sought after by the locals. Baby Diapers for example, cigarettes and liquor too. We never paid cash. We had a long West African history well known among the locals.
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