Xikomba Terminal (6°03'S., 11°01'E.) is situated about 75 miles W of Ponta da Moita Seca in the vicinity of an oil field. It onsists of a Floating Production Storage and Offshore (FPSO) facility, which is equipped with a racon. The FPSO (Xikomba) is moored, by means of an SPM turret at the bow, in a depth of 1,300m. Vessels berth in tandem to the stern of the FPSO. The terminal can handle vessels up to 350,000 dwt.

A designated waiting area lies centered 3 miles N of the FPSO.

Local thunderstorms, which occur in the vicinity of the terminal, are usually preceded by a dense cloud belt and can be accompanied at times by wind gusts exceeding 50 knots. Pilotage is compulsory except when arriving at the waiting area. Pilots, who act as mooring maters, can be contacted by VHF and board in the waiting area. Berthing is carried out only during daylight hours but vessels may depart at any time. Vessels should send an ETA by e-mail or fax to the terminal at the start of their voyage. They should send a confirmation message 72 hours, 48 hours, 24 hours, and 4 hours prior to arrival. Vessels should then contact the terminal when within VHF range. Changes to the ETA of more than 6 hours and changes of more than 1 hour during the last 24 hours should be reported immediately.

A restricted area, with a radius of 2.5m, surrounds the terminal. Vessels are prohibited from entering this area without prior permission from the terminal.

Location