Al’Arish (31°08'N., 33°48'E.), a small town, stands on low ground on the banks of the Wadi al’Arish. It is situated among palm trees and sand dunes 1 mile inland. Numerous buildings are visible from seaward; the minaret of the mosque is conspicuous. The port is approached by a 2 mile long access channel, which is 100m wide with a depth of 7.5m. The town has a quay 200m long, with a depth of 6.5m alongside. Pilotage is compulsory.
A prominent palm grove and a conspicuous sand hill are located 5 miles W and 8 miles SSW, respectively, of Al’Arish. Tall Rafah lies 24 miles ENE of Al’Arish. The coast between consists of almost bare sand dunes, 46 to 61m high, with numerous scattered palms and bushes close inland. In clear weather, the mountain ranges farther inland are visible from seaward.

The boundary between Egypt and Israel (Gaza Strip) is situated in the vicinity of Tall Rafah. The shore between Bur Sa’id and Al’Arish is, with the exception of Ras Burun, extremely low and is fronted by several shoals. Vessels should give this stretch of coast a wide berth, especially in February and March, when dense fog is not uncommon.

Location