Richards Bay (ZARCB) — marine weather & port guide
Richards Bay is a port in South Africa at 28°48.6′S 32°5.9′E. Today (Aug 3): S wind 2–6 kn, waves 2.1–2.4 m, from the ECMWF IFS run 2026-08-03 12z. The live chart on this page shows current conditions and plans weather-optimized departures from this harbor.
Port facts (NGA World Port Index)| Position | 28°48.6′S 32°5.9′E |
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| UN/LOCODE | ZARCB |
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| Harbor size | Medium |
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| Harbor type | Coastal breakwater harbor |
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| Shelter | Fair |
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| Channel depth | 19 m |
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| Anchorage depth | 19 m |
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| Tide range | 2 m |
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| Pilotage | Compulsory |
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| Time zone | Africa/Johannesburg |
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10-day marine forecast — Richards Bay
| Date | Wind | Gusts | Waves |
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| S 2–6 kn | 13 kn | 2.1–2.4 m |
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| NNW 2–7 kn | 16 kn | 1.6–2.0 m |
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| WNW 1–7 kn | 15 kn | 1.5–1.7 m |
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| NW 2–4 kn | 10 kn | 1.6–1.7 m |
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| S 3–6 kn | 12 kn | 1.5–1.7 m |
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| NW 4–8 kn | 10 kn | 1.7–1.8 m |
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| NW 5–11 kn | 14 kn | 2.0–2.4 m |
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| S 20–20 kn | 41 kn | 2.5–2.5 m |
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| SE 11–11 kn | 23 kn | 4.4–4.4 m |
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| NE 8–8 kn | 17 kn | 3.7–3.7 m |
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Forecast from the ECMWF IFS model run , waves from ECMWF WAM. Updated with each model cycle; the live chart below recalculates for your departure time and vessel.
Frequently asked
How is the weather at Richards Bay right now?
As of the ECMWF IFS run 2026-08-03 12z: S wind 2–6 kn, waves 2.1–2.4 m. The 10-day outlook is in the forecast table on this page and updates with each model cycle.
How big is the harbor at Richards Bay?
Richards Bay is classed as a medium harbor (coastal breakwater harbor), with fair shelter in the NGA World Port Index.
How deep is the approach to Richards Bay?
Per the NGA World Port Index, the entrance channel carries about 19 m and anchorage depths run about 19 m. Verify against current official charts before entry.
What restricts entry to Richards Bay?
Entry is affected by overhead clearance limits. Check the live forecast on this page and official notices before approach.