Turkish Straits P&I Confirmation Letter

What Shipowners and Charterers Should Know

The Turkish Straits — comprising the Bosphorus and the Dardanelles — represent one of the most strategically sensitive and regulated waterways in the world. In recent years, the requirement for a P&I Confirmation Letter has become a critical compliance element, particularly for tanker transits.

At ID Shipping Agency, we closely monitor regulatory developments to ensure smooth and uninterrupted passage for our clients.

What Is a Turkish Straits P&I Confirmation Letter?

A Turkish Straits P&I Confirmation Letter is an official written confirmation issued by a vessel’s P&I Club or insurer, confirming that:

• The vessel’s P&I cover is valid and active

• The insurance includes Turkish Straits transit

• Pollution, collision, and wreck removal liabilities are covered

• There are no sanctions-related restrictions affecting coverage

This letter may be requested in addition to standard certificates such as:

• CLC 92 Certificate (for tankers)

• Bunker Convention Certificate

• Certificate of Entry

Why Is This Letter Required?

Following global sanctions developments and increased scrutiny on oil cargoes, Turkish authorities introduced stricter verification procedures to ensure:

• Full insurance validity at the time of transit

• No sanctions-related exclusions

• Immediate financial security in case of pollution or casualty

The objective is to eliminate ambiguity in liability coverage during transit operations in Turkish territorial waters.

Which Vessels Are Most Affected?

While the requirement may apply to different vessel types, it is particularly relevant for:

• Crude oil and product tankers

• Vessels carrying Russian-origin cargo

• Older vessels

• Ships entered with non-IG P&I insurers

• Vessels with recent flag changes

Bulk carriers and general cargo vessels are less frequently subject to additional confirmation, but requests may still occur depending on risk assessment.

What Happens If the Letter Is Not Accepted?

If the confirmation wording is insufficient or missing:

• Transit planning may be delayed

• Passage scheduling (N/B or S/B) may be suspended

• Pilot booking may not be confirmed

• Vessel waiting time and demurrage exposure may increase

Proper wording and early coordination are essential to avoid operational disruptions.

Key Wording Considerations

Authorities may expect confirmation that:

• Cover is “valid and in force”

• Turkish Straits transit is included

• There are no restrictions preventing full coverage

• Sanctions do not invalidate the insurance

Standard entry certificates may not always be sufficient.

How ID Shipping Agency Supports You

At ID Shipping Agency, we:

• Review P&I documentation prior to transit application

• Coordinate directly with Owners and P&I Clubs

• Verify compliance within LYBS and relevant systems

• Monitor regulatory updates affecting Straits transit

• Ensure timely pilotage and passage planning

Our proactive documentation control minimizes delays and protects our clients from unnecessary operational risk.

Conclusion

The Turkish Straits P&I Confirmation Letter is not merely a formality — it is a critical compliance document that can directly impact vessel scheduling and commercial performance.

With extensive experience in Turkish Straits transit operations, ID Shipping Agency ensures that your passage is handled professionally, efficiently, and in full compliance with Turkish maritime regulations.

For professional Straits transit support, contact ID Shipping Agency.