November 7, 2024
The Captain of the Port (COTP), Sector Delaware Bay, is notifying mariners that the Coast Guard is establishing
two safety zones to facilitate the Philadelphia to Sea Maintenance Dredging. Maintenance dredging will be
conducted in Marcus Hook Range and Marcus Hook Anchorage (No. 7) on the Delaware River on November 11,
2024, through approximately March 15, 2025.
Safety zone one includes all the waters within a 250-yard radius of the dredge LEXINGTON and all associated
dredge equipment operating in or around Marcus Hook Range.
Safety zone two includes all the waters of Marcus Hook Anchorage (No. 7) found in 33 CFR 110.157(a) (8).
Vessels wishing to transit through safety zones one and/or two may do so if they can make satisfactory passing
arrangements with the dredge LEXINGTON, in accordance with the Inland Navigational Rules in 33 Code of
Federal Regulations Subchapter E via VHF-FM channel 13 at least one hour prior to arrival.
Vessels desiring to anchor within Marcus Hook Anchorage must obtain permission from the COTP at least 24
hours in advance, at (215) 271-4807. The COTP will permit one vessel at a time on a “first come, first served”
basis in the lower portion of the anchorage, with preference given to those vessels greater than 650’ in overall
length. The maritime public will be notified of any changes to vessel traffic patterns or availability of Marcus
Hook Anchorage via subsequent updates to this Marine Safety Information Bulletin and Broadcast Notice to
Mariners.
Normally, Marcus Hook Anchorage is a 48-hour anchorage; however, vessels will not be permitted to occupy the
anchorage beyond 12 hours during this time.
Vessels that require an examination by the Public Health Service, Customs or Immigration authorities will be
directed to an anchorage for the required inspection by the COTP. Vessels are encouraged to use Mantua Creek
Anchorage (No. 9), Naval Base, Philadelphia Anchorage (No. 10), and Deepwater Point Anchorage (No. 6) as
alternatives.
If there are any questions regarding the contents of this bulletin or expectations of the Captain of the Port, please
contact (215) 271-4807.