South China Sea
From CruisersWiki
An online cruising guide for yachts sailing around the South China Sea
The South China Sea is that part of the Pacific Ocean from the Singapore and Malacca Straits to the Strait of Taiwan. It includes the Gulf of Thailand.
Cruising the region
Approximately 1/3rd of the world's shipping passes through the South China Sea, as it forms the main route between ports in Europe, Singapore and China.
The area is believed to hold large reserves of oil and natural gas beneath the seabed.
Disputes and Dangers
Cruisers entering the South China Sea should be aware of the following points:
- Piracy, although no longer widespread, is still an issue in the area.
- Maritime borders in the area are disputed, especially territorial claims to both the Paracel Islands and the Spratly Islands. Ongoing activity has included collisions between military ships and other vessels. See territorial disputes in the South China Sea on wikipedia.
- In Vietnam, the South China Sea is referred to as the East Sea and Vietnamese officials can be quite sensitive when it comes to using their preferred version of the name. This is tied to the territorial disputes in the area. If hailed by a military or coast guard vessel while in the area it may pay to identify the nationality of the vessel before responding in detail.
Charts
South China Sea Electronic Navigational Charts are available free of charge from East Asia Hydrographic Commission with regular updates sent by email. These charts do not include the Gulf of Thailand.
It may also be possible to obtain charts of the South China Sea from the USA or Admiralty. See Charts.
Weather
See South East Asia
Sources for weather information:
See South East Asia
See also Weather
Passages
List popular passages/routes, timing, etc.
Communication
- Also see World Cruiser's Nets
Add any navigation notes such approaches, dangers etc here. If this section does not apply remove it.
Countries & Islands
Gulf of Thailand
See also Gulf of Thailand Cruising Guide.
Friends
Contact details of "Cruiser's Friends" that can be contacted for local information or assistance.
Forums
List links to discussion threads on partnering forums. (see link for requirements).
Links
- South China Sea Electronic Navigational Charts - Free of Charge from East Asia Hydrographic Commission with regular updates sent by email.
- South China Sea on wikipedia
- Gulf of Thailand on wikipedia
- Territorial disputes in the South China Sea on wikipedia
References
Books, Guides, etc.
Comments
We welcome users' contributions to the Wiki. Please click on Comments to view other users' comments, add your own personal experiences or recommend any changes to this page following your visit. Personal experiences?
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Names: Haiqu |
