Home

 

Contact

 

Fishing Boats  -  Port Registration Letters and Numbers

 Last updated on 20 May 2025

 

Fishing boat Port Letter and number - Stornoway

Fishing boat Port Letter and number - Blyth England

Fishing boat port letter and number - Castlebay Scotland

Fishing boat port letter and number - Banff Scotland

fishing boat port letter and number - Brake Germany

fishing boat port letter and number - Kirkcaldy Scotland

fishing boat port letter and number - Greetsiel Germany

Stornoway

Blyth

Castlebay

Banff

Brake

Kirkcaldy

Greetsiel

fishing boat port letter and number - Fuglefjord Faeroe Islands

fishing boat port letter and number - Nazare Portugal

fishing boat port letter and number - Palma Mallorca Spain

fishing boat port letter and number - Sagres Portugal

fishing boat port letter and number - Sogn Og Fjordane Norway

    Fuglefjord

Nazare

Palma Mallorca

Sagres

Sogn og Fjordane

fishing boat port letter and number - Camaret France

Camaret

Perak State

Kien Gang Province

 

Commercial fishing boats are regulated by Government agencies. To ensure clear identification and assist in enforcement of fishery laws each boat must display Port Registration Letters and Numbers. The style varies depending on the country that issues them, but they usually take the form of a letter code that identifies the port and a number that identifies the individual boat. Some countries reissue the same number when it becomes available after the loss or scrapping of a vessel, while others issue unique numbers to each new boat that is registered.

·       Some ports exist only as an administrative area and may issue registration letters although there is no significant fishing fleet. For example, the harbour at Banff in Scotland is used mostly by pleasure craft and is so small that no large trawler could enter it, but the registration letters BF, which, like all British registration letters, are issued by a centralised national office, are used by many fishing boats working from the big harbours of North East Scotland.

·       Some countries issue registration letters at State, County, or Province level and these letters will apply to any port or harbour within the Province etc

·       Some non European countries do not issue Port Registration Letters, but simply allocate a number to each fishing boat.  Please scroll to the end of the list for details of these countries

·       Some countries have poor administrative controls, do not maintain a register of boats, and commercial fishing is unregulated.  Fishing boats from these countries may over fish, leading to the collapse of what should be a sustainable resource, and incur naval and diplomatic disputes with adjacent regulated fisheries

 

European Community

Within the European Community there is a common standard for the size and style of Port Letters and Numbers displayed on fishing boats registered in member states.

·         Lettering on boats between 10 and 17 metres length is to be 250mm in height

·         Lettering on boats over 17 meters length is to be 450mm in height

·         Lettering must be either white text on a black background or black text on a white background. 

(in practice, this standard does not seem to be rigorously enforced.  As can be seen from the illustrations above there is a wide variety of signwriting styles, although all boats do show clearly readable markings)

 

Portugal

Portugal used a 1 or 2 letter code for Port Letters, for example AL = Albufiera.  There is also a single letter suffix after the number to show the “Activity Area” for the boat  : C = coastal fishery : L = local fishery : N = deep sea fishery

 

About 2020 the registration system changed to a 3 letter code for each port, so Albufiera became ABF.  In addition a “Nationality mark” of PT (Portugal) was applied as a prefix to the port letter, so the full port letters for an Albufiera fishing boat are now PTABF-nnnn.   The C, L, and N suffix letters remain unchanged

 

All the codes for both the old system and the new system are given in the list below

 

Spain

Port Letters are given in the list below.  However, ship registration in Spain allows for 9 classes of registration, of which fishing boats are class 3

 

Class 1:   extraction platforms, support vessels and offshore tugboats.

Class 2:   domestically built vessels engaged in the transportation of goods or passengers.

Class 3:   vessels, national or imported, engaged in fishing.

Class 4:   auxiliary vessels for fishing or aquaculture.

Class 5:   tugboats and vessels working in the port or harbor.

Class 6:   recreational boats for profit.

Class 7:   vessels engaged in sport or non-profit fishing.

Class 8:   public agency vessels.

Class 9:   for vessels under construction.

 

Confusingly, some Spanish fishing boat show the class number in addition to the Port Letter and number and some do not, and the class letter, if shown, can appear either before or after the Port Letter and number.  The registration system changed around 1989 when 2 digits, representing the year the boat was entered on the register were added to the Port Letter and number

 

Tenerife fishing boat Martianez displaying Port Letter 
TE-1-410 without any class number

Tenerife fishing boat Martianez displaying Port Letter

TE-1-410 without any class number

 

Tenerife fishing boat Roque del Aguila displaying Port Letter TE-1-3853 prefixed by class number 3

Tenerife fishing boat Roque del Aguila displaying Port Letter TE-1-3853 prefixed by class number 3

 

Marbella fishing boat Cuatro Hermanos displaying
   Port letters MA -2 – 458 with class number 3 appearing 
   as a suffix

Marbella fishing boat Cuatro Hermanos displaying Port letters

MA -2 – 458 with class number 3 appearing as a suffix       

 

 

 

Bilbao trawler Gure Kantabriko displaying Port letters BI-4-1 prefixed by class number 3 and with suffix 06 for year

Bilbao trawler Gure Kantabriko displaying Port letters

BI-4-1 prefixed by class number 3 and with suffix 06 for year

 

 

 

 

Japan

Port Letters for Japan consist of a two letter code (in English) that identifies the Prefecture, followed by a single

Digit that identifies the class of boat, followed by a hyphen and then the boat number.  To avoid repeating the

boat class codes in each of 47 Prefectures in the list below I have given them here

1 – powered fishing boats greater than 100 tons

2 – powered fishing boats 5 – 100 tons

3 – powered fishing boats under 5 tons

4 – non powered boats over 5 tons

5 – non powered boats under 5 tons

6 – powered freshwater fishing boats

7 – unpowered freshwater fishing boats

 

An example is  FS1-710  -  Hokusho Maru a seine net boat of 300 gross tons, registered in Fukushima Prefecture

 

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka fishing boats carry a 3 letter code (in English) that identifies the Fishery District.  This is prefixed by a letter code that describes the type of boat followed by a hyphen and then the boat number.  To avoid repeating these for each of the 15 Fisheries Districts I have given them here

IMUL   -  Inboard engine multi day boat

IDAY   -  Inboard engine single day boat

OFRB  - Outboard motor glass fibre boat

MTRB -  Motorised traditional boat

NTRB -  Non motorised traditional boat

NBSB -  Non motorised beach seine boat

An example of the format is IMUL - A - 0878 TLE   - Nuwan, a fishing boat of 20 gross tons with an inboard engine from Tangelle Fisheries District that will work at sea for several days before returning with a catch of tuna and swordfish.

 

 

Radio call signs

 

Some large fishing boats, especially those working in international waters, or under licence from another country have the ship radio call sign displayed in large letters.  These radio call signs may consist of letters or a combination of letters and numbers and should not be confused with Port Letters and Numbers.  Radio call signs are assigned to each country by international agreement and full information can be found by a search on the internet. 

 

The photograph shows the radio call sign JXPS on the Norwegian trawler Kjelsvik, Port letters AA-91-A

 

The photograph shows the radio call sign JXPS on the Norwegian trawler Kjelsvik, Port letters AA-91-A

 

However -  there are some countries (particularly smaller island territories) where the first one or two characters of the country radio call sign are used as the “Port Letter” and are followed by the registration number of the boat. These are shown in the notes for the Port Letter

 

 

IMO Numbers

 

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) introduced a Ship Identification Number Scheme in 1987 to help prevent maritime fraud and enhance the security of merchant vessels.  The unique seven-digit number issued to each vessel, preceded by the letters IMO, stays with it until it is scrapped and never changes, regardless of the ship’s owner, country of registration or name.  IMO numbers were not issued to fishing boats until 2013, and then only to boats of over 100 gross tons or longer than 12 metres and which work beyond the territorial waters of their home country.  They are therefore only seen on large deep water fishing boats.   The IMO number usually appears on the stern of the boat, or painted on the front of the bridge superstructure.  Most locally based fishing boats, including large trawlers do not have an IMO number.   Full information on the IMO number system is readily available on the internet

 

The French longliner / gillnetter fishing boat SYLVANNA seen here at Scrabster in Scotland shows the Port letters LR 318345 (for La Rochelle) on the bow and the IMO number 007115593 on front of the bridge

 

The French longliner / gillnetter fishing boat SYLVANNA seen here at Scrabster in Scotland shows the

Port letters LR 318345 (for La Rochelle) on the bow and the IMO number 007115593 on front of the bridge

 

 

 

 

List of Fishing Ports and their Registration Letters    

The list below gives the Port Letters for most European countries, and I am trying to extend it to include other countries worldwide.  It includes Port Letters which are no longer in use because of political or territorial changes, but may be of historic interest in identifying old photographs.

 

 

Format of the list :  

The list is in alphabetical order of the Port Letter. The intention is that given a photograph of a fishing boat you

will be able to identify the country and registered port from the displayed Port Letters,  Some countries do not use the

Latin alphabet (eg Arabic, Cyrillic, Greek ) and it is not practicable to list these symbols alphabetically in the main section

of the list. Where the Port Letters appear on the boat in these alphabets I have listed them In a separate section at the end,

but I have included a cross-reference within the main list using the nearest Latin alphabet equivalent.

 

·       The individual number for the boat will normally be displayed after the Port Letter.  In some cases where this

not the case “nnn”  indicates where the individual number for the boat should appear

 

 Port Letter

Port

Country

Notes

A

Aberdeen

Scotland

A

Akershus

Norway

A – nnn – A       Aker

A – nnn – AA     As

A – nnn – AS     Asker

A – nnn – B       Berum

A – nnn – D       Drobak

A – nnn – F       Frogn

A – nnn – N       Nesodden

A – nnn – O       Oppegard

A – nnn – S       Son

A – nnn – V       Vestby

A

Aalborg

Denmark

 

A

Antwerp

Belgium

 

A

Aruba

Dutch Caribbean

Sometimes uses the format NA – presumably for Netherlands Aruba

A

Auchendown

Jamaica

 

AA

Aabenraa

Denmark

 

AA

Alloa

Scotland

AA

Aust - Agder

Norway

AA  - nnn – A       Arendal

AA – nnn -  E       Eide

AA – nnn -  FJ      Fjere

AA – nnn -  FL      Flosta

AA  - nnn – G      Grimstad

AA – nnn -  H       Hovag  (historic)

AA – nnn -  HS     Hisoy            

AA – nnn -  L        Lillesand

AA – nnn -  LV     Landvik

AA – nnn – R        Risor

AA – nnn -  S       Sondeled

AA – nnn -  SN     Stokken

AA – nnn – T        Tvedestrand

AA – nnn -  TO      Tromoy

AA – nnn – VM      Vestre

AA – nnn – Ř        Oyestad

AA – nnn -  ŘM     Ostre Moland

AA

Westeraccumersiel

Germany

 

AAL

Aland

Finland

Semi – autonomous region of Finland.  Does not use the same style of Port Letters as the rest of the country – see FIN for other Finnish Port Letters

AAR

Arusha

Tanzania

 

AB

Aberystwyth

Wales

 

AB

Annotto Bay

Jamaica

 

AB

Bensersiel

Germany

ABH

Bremerhaven

Germany

Port letters for coastal fishing boats.  High seas fishing boats use Port Letters BX

AC

Arcachon

France

 

AC

Carolinensiel

Germany

 

ACC

Accumerseil

Germany

 

AD

Ardrossan

Scotland

AD

Audierne

France

 

AD

Langeoog

Germany

 

ADF

Lamberts Bay

South Africa

 

AE

Emden

Germany

 

AF

Friesdrichs Schleusses

Germany

 

AG

Ardrishaig

Scotland

 

AG

Greetseil

Germany

 

AH

Angra do Heroismo

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

AH

Arbroath

Scotland

AH

Ahtopol

Bulgaria

Port letters on Bulgarian fishing boats are in Cyrillic script.  AH is the nearest Latin script equivalent to the Cyrillic  AX

AH

Ditzum

Germany

 

AHL

Ahlbeck

Germany

 

AHR

Ahrenshoop

Germany

 

AI

Aichi Prefecture

Japan

 

AI

Akureyri

Iceland

 

AJ

Ajaccio

Corsica  France

 

AJ

Juist

Germany

 

AK

Akita Prefecture

Japan

 

AK

Akranes

Iceland

 

AK

Andijk

Netherlands

 

AK

Archangel

Russia

also known as Arkangelsk

AL

Albufeira

Portugal

Prior to 2020

AL

Algeciras

Spain

AL – 1 – nnn  Tarifa

AL – 2 – nnn  Algeciras

AL – 3 – nnn  La Linea 

AL

Algiers

Algeria

 

AL

Ameland

Netherlands

 

AL

Leer

Germany

 

ALK

Alkmaar

Netherlands

 

ALT

Altenwerder

Germany

 

AM

Almeria

Spain

AM – 1 – nnn  Adra

AM – 2 – nnn  Almeria

AM – 3 – nnn  Carboneras

AM – 3 – nnn  Garrucha  (historic)

AM – 4 -  nnn  Garrucha (current)

AM

Amsterdam

Netherlands

AM

Leerort

Germany

 

AMD

Monduli

Tanzania

 

AN

Annaba

Algeria

 

AN

Ancona

Italy

 

AN

Ancora

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

AN

Norderney

Germany

 

ANB

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

India

ANB-MV-SA-nnn   South Andaman motorised

ANB-TC-SA-nnn   South Andaman non-motorised

ANB-MV-MN-nnn  Middle & North Andaman motorised

ANB-TC-MN-nnn   Middle & North Andaman non-motorised

ANB-MV-NB-nnn   Nicobar District  motorised

ANB-TC-NB-nnn    Nicobar District non-motorised

ANF

Anklamer Fahre

Germany

 

ANG

Ngorongoro

Tanzania

 

ANK

Anklam

Germany

 

AO

Aomori Prefecture

Japan

 

AO

Oldersum

Germany

 

AP

Alligator Pond

Jamaica

 

AQ

Retzmarsiel

Germany

 

AR

Agadir

Morocco

Historic interest only  - these Port Letters relate to the period of French colonial rule in Morocco

AR

Arnes Syssel

Iceland

 

AR

Ayr

Scotland

AR

Rhaudermoor

Germany

 

ARC

Arcachon

France

 

ARE

Alt Reddevitz

Germany

 

ARKT

Karatu

Tanzania

 

ARM

Arnemuiden

Netherlands

 

ARN

Arnis

Germany

ARU

Arumeru

Tanzania

 

ARZ

Arzew

Algeria

May appear on boat as ز را

AS

Aarhus

Denmark

 

AS

Spickeroog

Germany

 

AS

Ahus

Sweden

ASS

Assel

Germany

AT

Alicante

Spain

AT – 1 – nnn  Torrevieja

AT – 2 – nnn  Santa Pola

AT – 3 – nnn  Alicante

AT – 4 – nnn  Villajoyosa

AT – 5 – nnn  Altea

AT – 6 – nnn  Denia

AT

Terborg

Germany

 

AU

Audierne

France

 

AU

Augusta

Sicily  Italy

 

AU

Baltrum

Germany

 

AV

Aveiro

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

AV

Avenhorn

Netherlands

 

AV

Aviles

Spain

AV-1- nnn  Aviles

AV-2- nnn  San Esteban de Pravia

AV-3- nnn  Luarca

AV

Norden

Germany

 

AW

Aengwirden

Netherlands

 

AW

Wilhelmshaven

Germany

 

AWA

Altwarp

Germany

 

AX

Borkum

Germany

 

AY

Norddeich

Germany

 Historic

AY

Auray

France

 

AZ

Neuharlingsersiel

Germany

 

 

 

 

 

B

Belfast

Northern Ireland

 

B         

Bergen

Norway

Historic port letter before about 1972.  

Current letter is H – nnn - BN

B

Blankenburg

Belgium

 

B

Bonaire

Dutch Caribbean

Sometimes uses the format NB – presumably for Netherlands Bonaire

B

Braughton

Jamaica

 

B to BZZ

Brunei

Brunei

Brunei issues 1, 2, and 3 letter Port Codes all of which commence with the letter “B” and run in sequence (with the omission of some letters) from B ; BA ; BAA ; … BZZ.   There are over 500 letter combinations, so too many to list individually in this table.

BA

Bakar

Croatia

 

BA

Ballantrae

Scotland

A small and little used harbour, but the BA registration letters are carried by many of the West Coast fishing boats

BA

Bayonne

France

 

BA

Bari

Italy

BA

Barcelona

Spain

BA – 1 – nnn  Villannueva y Geltru

BA – 2 – nnn  Barcelona

BA -  3 -  nnn Arenys de Mar

BA – 3 – nnn  Mataro  (historic)

BA – 4 – nnn  Blanes (previously San Feliu de Guixois)

BA – 5 – nnn  Palamos

BA – 6 – nnn  Rosas

BA – 7 – nnn  La Selva  (historic)

BA

Bardastradn Syssel

Iceland

 

BAA

Baabe

Germany

 

BAH

Bahrenfleth

Germany

 

BAL

Balm

Germany

 

BAN

Bansin

Germany

 

BAR

Barth

Germany

 

BB

Bremen

Germany

 

BB

Bull Bay

Jamaica

 

BBK

Bukoba

Tanzania

 Lake Victoria – Kagera Region

BC

Braco

Jamaica

 

BCB

Boscobel

Jamaica

 

BCH

Balchick

Bulgaria

Port letters on Bulgarian fishing boats are in Cyrillic script.  BCH is the nearest Latin script equivalent to the Cyrillic script ҔЧ

BCK

Buckie

Scotland

BCO

Batticaloa Fisheries District

Sri Lanka

 

BD

Barnswell Dale

Jamaica

 

BD

Bideford

England

BD

Binh Dinh

Province

Vietnam

 

BD

Budva

Montenegro

 

BD

Buskerude

Norway

BD – nnn – D    Drammen

BD – nnn – H    Hurum

BD – nnn – R    Royken

BE

Barnstaple

England

 

BE

Beauchamp

Jamaica

 

BEI

Beidenfleth

Germany

BEL

Bellin

Germany

 

BEN

Bensersiel

Germany

 

BF

Banff

Scotland

Tiny harbour, but registration port for many Scottish fishing boats. The adjacent port of Macduff is a major repair yard for fishing boats.

BF

Buff Bay

Jamaica

 

BG

Biograd Na Moru

Croatia

 

BG

Bougie

Algeria

Of historic interest only.  Port Letters relate to the period of French colonial rule. The town is now called Bejaia

BH

Blyth

England

 

BH

Brouwershaven

Netherlands

 

BHR

Biharamulo

Tanzania

 Lake Victoria – Kagera Region

BI

Bastia

Corsica  France

 

BI

Bilbao

Spain

BI – 1 – nnn  Lequeitio

BI – 2 – nnn  Bermeo

BI – 3 – nnn  Bilbao

BI – 4 – nnn  Ondarroa

BI

Billy’s Bay

Jamaica

 

BI

Bizerte

Tunisia

 

BIE

Bielenberg

Germany

 

BIN

Binz

Germany

 

BJ

Bejaia

Algeria

may appear as ج ب

BK

Berwick on Tweed

England

BKE

Karagwe

Tanzania

 Lake Victoria – Kagera Region

BL

Bac Lieu

Province

Vietnam

 

BL

Barletta

Italy

 

BL

Belmont

Jamaica

 

BL

Boulogne

France

BL

Bristol

England

 

BL

Byala

Bulgaria

Port letters on Bulgarian fishing boats are in Cyrillic script and will appear on the boat as Бл or sometimes as БΛ.   BL is the nearest Latin script equivalent

BM

Bournmouth

Jamaica

 

BM

Brixham

England

BME

Muleba

Tanzania

 Lake Victoria – Kagera Region

BN

Boston

England

 

BNR

Ngara

Tanzania

 Lake Victoria – Kagera Region

BO

Boiler Beach

Jamaica

 

BO

Bol

Croatia

 

BO

Bone

Algeria

Of historic interest only. These Port Letters relate to the period of French colonial rule.  The town is now called Annaba

BO

Borrowstoness

Scotland

BOCK

Bockhomwik

Germany

 

BOG

Borgerende

Germany

 

BOI

Boisendorf

Germany

 

BON

Bongsiel

Germany

 

BOR

Borkum

Germany

North Sea harbour

BOR

Born a. Darss

Germany

Baltic sea harbour

BOU

Bouchoute

Belgium

 

BR

Barreiro

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

BR

Black River

Jamaica

 

BR

Brava

Cape Verde Islands

 

BR

Breskens

Netherlands

 

BR

Brest

France

 

BR

Bridgewater

England

 

BR

Brindisi

Italy

 

BR

Struis Bay

South Africa

 

BRA

Brake

Germany

Port letters for coastal fishing boats.  High seas fishing boats use Port Letters NB

BRD

Broadford

Skye, Scotland

BRE

Breege

Germany

 

BRO

Brokdorf

Germany

BROE

Broek

Germany

 

BRU

Brunsbuttelkoog

Germany

 

BRU

Bruinisse

Netherlands

 

BRZ

Breetz

Germany

 

BS

Baska

Croatia

 

BS

Beaumaris

Wales

 

BS

Beni Saf

Algeria

may appear on boat as   ص ب

BS

Boston

Jamaica

 

BS

Burgas

Bulgaria

Port letters on Bulgarian fishing boats are in Cyrillic script and will appear on the boat as Бс. BS is the nearest Latin script equivalent

BT

Ben Tre

Province

Vietnam

 

BTh

Binh Thuan

Province

Vietnam

 

BT

Bottom Beach

Jamaica

 

BU

Blue Hole

Jamaica

 

BU

Bunschoten

Netherlands

 

BU

Burntisland

Scotland

BUR

Burgstaaken

Germany

Baltic sea harbour

BUR

Burhaversiel

Germany

North sea harbour

BUS

Buschvitz

Germany

 

BÜS

Busum

Germany

 

BV

Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province

Vietnam

 

BV

Boa Vista

Cape Verde Islands

 

BV

Bremen - Vegesack

Germany

 

BW

Barrow

England

 

BX

Bremerhaven

Germany

Port letters for high seas fishing vessels.  Coastal fishing boats used the letters ABH

BX

Bordeaux

France

 

BY

Bloody Bay

Jamaica

 

BZ

Bergen op Zoom

Netherlands

 

BZ

Bozava

Croatia

 

BZJ

Bouzedjar

Algeria

may appear on boat as   ج‎  ذ‎  بـ

 

 

 

 

C

Caen

France

 

C

Cave

Jamaica

 

C

Cienfuegos

Cuba

 

C

Cork

Ireland

 

C

Coxyde

Belgium

 

CA

Cadiz

Spain

CA – 1 -  nnn  Puerto Santa Maria

CA – 2 -  nnn  Cadiz

CA – 3 -  nnn  Barbate

 

CA – 1 – nnn  Rota  (historic)

CA – 2 – nnn  Puerto Santa Maria (historic)

CA – 3 – nnn  Cadiz  (historic)

CA – 4 – nnn  San Fernando  (historic)

CA – 5 – nnn  Barbate  (historic)

CA

Calabash Bay

Jamaica

 

CA

Cagliari

Sardinia  Italy

 

CA

Cardigan

Wales

 

CAG

Mkuranga

Tanzania

 

CAN

Cancale

France

 

CB

Carlisle Bay

Jamaica

 

CBG

Bagamoyo

Tanzania

 

CBO

Colombo Fisheries District

Sri Lanka

 

CC

Concarneau

France

 

CC

Corigliano Calabra

Italy

 

CC

Cousins Cove

Jamaica

 

CE

Chimbote

Peru

 

CE

Coleraine

Northern Ireland

 

CF

Cardiff

Wales

 

CG

Callantsoog

Netherlands

 

CH

Cherchell

Algeria

 may appear on boat in Arabic script  لش

CH

Cherbourg

France

 

CH

Chester

England

 

CH

Chiba Prefecture

Japan

 

CH

Cutlass Hole

Jamaica

 

CHA

Chalupy

Poland

 

CHL

Chlapwo

Poland

 

CHW

Chilaw Fisheries District

Sri Lanka

 

CHY

Chlopy

Poland

 

CI

Chioggia

Italy

 

CK

Colchester

England

 

CK

Crikvenica

Croatia

 

CKH

Kibaha

Tanzania

 

CKS

Kisarawe

Tanzania

 

CL

Calais

France

 

CL

Carlisle

England

 

CL

Carlton Beach

Jamaica

 

CL

Collo

Algeria

may display as  لق

CLN

Clinge

Netherlands

 

CM

Camaret

France

 

CM

Ca Mau

Province

Vietnam

 

CM

Caminha

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

CMF

Mafia

Tanzania

 

CN – nn – BMC -nn

Bomi County

 

 

 

 

Liberia

 

 

 

 

Replace nn with the number applied on the boat

Port codes and numbers are applied to artisanal (ie local community) fishing boats but enforcement of regulations seems mixed – many boats do not appear to display their identity markings   

 

 

CN – nn – GBC -nn

Grand Basa County

CN – nn – GCC -nn

Grand Cape Mount County

CN – nn – GKC -nn

Grand Kru County

CN – nn - MGC -nn

Margibi County

CN – nn – MLC -nn

Maryland County

CN – nn - MNC -nn

Montserrado County

CN – nn – RCC -nn

Rivercress County

CN – nn - SNC -nn

Sinoe County

CN

Campbeltown

Scotland

 

CN

Cimbrishamn

Sweden

 

CO

Caernarfon

Wales

 

CO

Callao

Peru

 

CO

Cooper’s

Jamaica

 

CO

Coruna

Spain

CO – 1 – nnn  Sada

CO – 2 – nnn  La Coruna

CO – 3 – nnn  Corme

CO – 4 – nnn  Camarinas

CO – 5 – nnn  Corcubion

CO – 6 – nnn  Muros

CO – 7 – nnn  Noya

CO

Coursuelles

France

 

CP

Castellon

Spain

CP – 1 – nnn  Burriana

CP – 2 – nnn  Castellon

CP – 3 – nnn  Vinaroz

CP

Colijnsplaat

Netherlands

 

CR

Crotone

Italy

 

CRJ

Rufiji

Tanzania

 

CS

Cascais

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

CS

Castellammare Di Stabia

Italy

 

CS

Cowes

England

 

CS

Cres

Croatia

 

CT  and  CTA

Cape Town

South Africa

CT

Cartagena

Spain

CT – 1 -  nnn Garrucha (historic)

CT – 2 – nnn  Aguilas

CT – 3 – nnn  Mazarron

CT – 4 – nnn  Cartagena

CT – 5 – nnn  S. Pedro del Pinatar

CT

Castletown

Isle of Man

 

CT

Catania

Italy

 

CT

Cavtat

Croatia

 

CT

Constanta

Romania

 

CT

Trouville

France

 

CT3 - nnnn

CT4 - nnnn

CT5 - nnnn

CT6 - nnnn

CT7 - nnnn

CT8 - nnnn

 

 

Taiwan

(Republic of China)

Port letters are based on the 2018 fleet list from Fisheries Agency, Taiwan Council of Agriculture.

It is not known if Port Letters CT1, CT2 may have been used in the past

 

CU

Ceuta

Spanish North Africa

 CU – 1 -  nnn

CV

Citavecchia

Italy

 

CUX

Cuxhaven

Germany

Port letters for coastal fishing boats.  Deep sea fishing boats use the letters NC

CW

Cow Bay

Jamaica

 

CY

Castlebay

Scotland

CY

Cayenne

French Guiana

French overseas region and department

CZ

Cadzand

Netherlands

 

 

 

 

 

D

Darby

Jamaica

 

D

Doel

Belgium

 

D

Dunkirk

France

D

Dublin

Ireland

 

DA

Dala Syssel

Iceland

 

DA

Drogheda

Ireland

 

DAB

Dabie

Poland

 

DAG

Dagebull

Germany

 

DAH

Dahme

Germany

DAN

Dangast

Germany

 

DAR

Darlowo

Poland

DAS

Dassow

Germany

 

DB

Discovery Bay

Jamaica

 

DB

Dubrovnik

Croatia

 

DBK

Dabki

Poland

 

DD

Dordrecht

Netherlands

 

DDF

Gans Bay

South Africa

 

DDM

Dodoma Urban

Tanzania

 

DDV

Dodoma Rural

Tanzania

 

DE

Dundee

Scotland

DEB

Debki

Poland

 

DED

Dedesdorf

Germany

 

DH

Dartmouth

England

 

DI

Dieppe

France

DI

Dzaoudzi

Petite Terre

Mayotte

French overseas region – Indian Ocean

DIE

Dierhagen

Germany

 

DIN

Dinant

France

DIR

Dierhagen Ost

Germany

 

DIT

Ditzum

Germany

 

DJ

Djibouti

Djibouti

 

DK

Dundalk

Ireland

 

DK

Dunkirk

France

 

DKD

Kondoa

Tanzania

 

DKO

Kongwa

Tanzania

 

DMP

Mpwapwa

Tanzania

 

DNa

Da Nang

Province

Vietnam

 

DNA

Durban

South Africa

 

DO

Douglas

Isle of Man

 

DO

Dover

Jamaica

 

DOR

Dorum

Germany

 

DP

Dieppe

France

 

DP

Drapers

Jamaica

 

DR

Dover

England

 

DR

Divers River

Jamaica

 

DRA

Drage

Germany

North sea harbour

DRA

Dranske

Germany

Baltic sea harbour

DRE

Oehe-Drecht

Germany

DS

Dumfries

Scotland

DU

Duhaney Pen

Jamaica

 

DV

Dalvey

Jamaica

 

DV

Deventer

Netherlands

 

DW

Doniawestal

Netherlands

 

DWI

Dzwirzyno

Poland

 

DZ

Delfzijl

Netherlands

 

DZ

Douarnenez

France

 

DZG

Danzig

Germany

Historic port letters prior to 1945.  The city is now in Poland and is known as Gdansk

DZI

Dziwnow

Poland

 

 

 

 

 

E

Elgin Town

Jamaica

 

E

Ericeira

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

E

Esbjerg

Denmark

 

E

Exeter

England

 

E

Lake Edward

Uganda

E – KAT – nnn   Katwe

E – KAY – nnn  Kayanja

E – KAZ – nnn   Kazinga

E – KIS – nnn    Kishenyi

E – RWE – nnn  Rwenshama

EA

Eysafjord

Iceland

 

EB

Elburg

Netherlands

 

EBZ

Mbozi

Tanzania

 

ECH

Chunya

Tanzania

 

ECKE

Eckernforde

Germany

 

EE

Eenrum

Netherlands

 

EE

Engure

Latvia

 

EG

Egmond aan Zee

Netherlands

 

EH

Ehime Prefecture

Japan

 

EH

Enkhuizen

Netherlands

 

EIJ

Ileje

Tanzania

 

EKY

Kyela

Tanzania

 

EL

Etel

France

 

ELA

East London

South Africa

 

ELD

Eldena

Germany

 

ELM

Elmshorn

Germany

 

ELS

Elsfleth

Germany

 

EMB

Mbeye

Tanzania

 

EMD

Emden

Germany

 

EMI

Mbarali

Tanzania

 

ER

Ericeira

Portugal

 

ERG

Rungwe

Tanzania

 

ES

Esposende

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

ET

El Kala

Algeria

may appear on boat as  طا

EUS

Usangu

Tanzania

 

EWD

Ellewoutsdijk

Netherlands

 

EZ

Ezinge

Netherlands

 

E5A

to

E5Z

 

 

 

Cook Islands

The Cook Islands use the country international radio call sign (E5A through E5Z) as the “Port Letter” followed by the number allocated to the boat

 

 

 

 

F

Fano

Denmark

 

F

Farquhar

Jamaica

 

F

Faversham

England

 

F

Fecamp

France

 

F

 

Malta

Historic port letter : F = full time fishing boat. Since 2004 has been superseded by the MFA/MFB/MFC/MFD series of port letters

F

Finnmark

Norway

F – nnn – A      Alta

F – nnn – B      Berlevag

F – nnn – BD   Batsfjord

F – nnn – G     Gamvik

F – nnn – H     Hammerfest

F – nnn – HV   Hasvik

F – nnn -  K     Kjelvik

F – nnn – KD   Kvalsund

F – nnn -  KS   Kistrand

F – nnn – L      Loppa

F – nnn – LB    Lebesby

F – nnn – M     Masoy

F – nnn – N      Nesseby

F – nnn – NK    Nordkapp

F – nnn – NV    Nord Varanger

F – nnn – P      Porsanger

F  - nnn – S      Soroysund   (historic)       

F – nnn – SV    Sor Varanger

F – nnn -  T       Talvik  (historic)

F – nnn – TN    Tana

F – nnn – V      Vardo

F – nnn – VS    Vadso

FA

Falmouth

Jamaica

 

FAL

Falshoft

Germany

FB

Frenchman’s Bay

Jamaica

 

FC

Fort Charles

Jamaica

 

FD

Fleetwood

England

FD

Fuglefjord

Faeroe Islands

 

FE

Ferrol

Spain

FE – 1 -  nnn  Carino

FE – 2 -  nnn  Cedeira

FE – 3 -  nnn  Ferrol

 

FE – 1 – nnn  Ribadeo  (historic)

FE – 2 – nnn  Vivero     (historic)

FE – 3 – nnn  Santa Maria de Ortiguiera (historic)

FE – 4 – nnn  Ferrol  (historic)

FE

Folkestone

England

 

FED

Fedderwardersiel

Germany

 

FF

Figueria da Foz

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

FF

Fort de France

Martinique

French overseas region - Caribbean

FG

Falkenberg

Sweden

 

FG

Fogo

Cape Verde Islands

 

FH

Fairy Hill

Jamaica

 

FH

Falmouth

England

 

FI

Fukui Prefecture

Japan

 

 

 FIN

 

 Finland

FIN – nnn – K    Kymi

FIN – nnn – L    Lappi

FIN – nnn – O   Oulu

FIN – nnn – T   Turku

FIN – nnn – U   Uusimaa

FIN – nnn – V   Vaasa

FK

Falkland Islands

Falkland Islands

 

FL

Finsterwolde

Denmark

 

FLE

Flensburg

Germany

FN

Frederikshaven

Denmark

 

FN

Franeker

Netherlands

 

FN

Funchal

Madeira, Portugal

 Prior to 2020

FO

Fukuoka Prefecture

Japan

 

FR

Faro

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

FR

Fraserburgh

Scotland

FRE

Freest

Germany

 

FRI

Friedrichskoog

Germany

 

FRIE

Friedrichsort

Germany

 May also appear as FRI

FRO

Frombork

Poland

 

FS

Fukushima Prefecture

Japan

 

FY

Fowey

England

 

FZ

Fuzeta

Portugal

 

 

 

 

 

G

Galway

Ireland

 

G

Granville

France

 

GA

Gaasterland

Netherlands

 

GA

Gaeta

Italy

 

GA

Gainsborough

England

 

GAG

Gager

Germany

 

GB

Great Bay

Jamaica

 

GC

Gran Canaria

Spain

GC – 1 – nnn  Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

GC – 2 – nnn  Fuerteventura / Puerto del Rosario

GC – 3 – nnn  Lanzarote / Arrecife

GD

s'-Gravendeel

Netherlands

 

GDA

Gdansk

Poland

GDY

Gdynia

Poland

GE

Gefle

Sweden

 

GE

Genoa

Italy

 

GE

Goole

England

 

GE

Grange Pen

Jamaica

 

GEV

Geversdorf

Germany

 

GF

Gifu Prefecture

Japan

 

GG

Geertruidenberg

Netherlands

 

GG

Goteborg

Sweden

 

GH

Grangemouth

Scotland

GI

Gijon

Spain

GI – 1 – nnn  Llanes

GI – 2 – nnn  Ribadesella

GI – 3 – nnn  Lastres

GI – 4 – nnn  Gijon

GI – 5 – nnn  Luanco

 

GI – 6 – nnn  Aviles  (historic)

GI – 7 – nnn  San Esteban de Pravia  (historic)

GI – 8 – nnn  Luarca  (historic)

GI

Green Island

Jamaica

 

GIL

Gilge

East Prussia

Germany

Of historic interest only for Port Letters prior to 1945. Gilge is now part of the Kaliningrad Oblast of Russia

GK

Greenock

Scotland

GK

Grindavik

Iceland

 

GKL

Kilosa

Tanzania

 

GL

Gallipoli

Italy

 

GLE

Glewitz

Germany

 

GLE

Galle Fisheries District

Sri Lanka

 

GLO

Glowe

Germany

 

GLU

Gluecksburg

Germany

 

GM

Genemuiden

Netherlands

 

GM

Gunma Prefecture

Japan

 

GMG

Morogoro

Tanzania

 

GMUE

Graal-Mueritz

Germany

 May also appear as GMU

GN

Granton

Scotland

GN

Green Bay

Jamaica

 

GO

Goedereede

Netherlands

 

GOE

Goes

Netherlands

 

GOH

Goehren

Germany

 May also appear as GOEH

GOK

Kilombero

Tanzania

 

GOT

Gothmund

Germany

GP

Grants Pen

Jamaica

 

GR

Granada

Spain

GR – 1 – nnn  Motril

GR

Gloucester

England

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GR

 

GR-1-nn Nanortalik

GR-2-nn Qaqortoq

GR-3-nn Narssaq

GR-4-nn Arsuk

GR-5-nn Paamuit

GR-6-nn Nuuk

GR-7-nn Maniitsoq

GR-8-nn Sisimiut

GR-9-nn Kangaatsiaq

GR-10-nn Aasiaat

GR-11-nn Qasigiannguit

GR-12-nn Iiulissat

GR-13-nn ????

GR-14-nn Qeqertarssuaq

GR-15-nn Uummannaq

GR-16-nn Upernavik

GR-17-nn Qaanaaq

GR-18-nn Tasiilaq

 

 

 

Greenland

 

 

 

 

 

 

It is possible that GR-13 is not assigned to a Port, but this has not been confirmed with certainty

GR

Gutts River

Jamaica

 

GRA

Grauw

Netherlands

 

GRA

Gravelines

France

 

GRE

Greetsiel

Germany

 

GRI

Gristow

Germany

 

GRO

Grossenbrode

Germany

GRÖ

Gromitz

Germany

GRO

Groningen

Netherlands

 

GS

Gasselte

Netherlands

 

GT

Gioia Tauro

Italy

 

GT

Grafhorst

Netherlands

 

GT

Greenwich Town

Jamaica

 

GTR

Great River

Jamaica

 

GU

 

Guernsay

 

GU

Gunboat

Jamaica

 

GUL

Ulanga

Tanzania

 

GUM

Gumbin

Germany

 

GV

Guilvinee

France

 

GVR

Mvomero

Tanzania

 

GW

Glasgow

Scotland

GY

Grimsby

England

 

GZ

Ghazaouet

Algeria

may appear on boat as Latin script GZ

or as Arabic script  ذ غ

GZI

Gross Zicker

Germany

 

 

 

 

 

H

Hellshire

Jamaica

 

H

Helsingor

Denmark

 

H

Heyst

Belgium

 

H

Hordaland

Norway

H – nnn -  A       Askoy

H – nnn -  AA    Asane

H – nnn -  AD    Alversund

H – nnn -  AM    Austrheim

H – nnn -  AV    Austevoll

H – nnn -  B       Bremnes (historic)

H – nnn -  B       Bomlo

H – nnn -  BN    Bergen  (from about 1972)

H – nnn -  BO    Bomlo  (historic)

H – nnn -  BV    Bruvik

H – nnn -  E       Etne

H – nnn -  EF     Eidefjord

H – nnn -  F       Fjell

H – nnn -  FA     Fana

H – nnn -  FB     Fjelberg

H – nnn -  FE     Fedje

H – nnn -  FJ     Fitjar

H – nnn -  FS     Fusa

H – nnn -  G      Granvin

H – nnn -  H       Herdla  (historic)

H – nnn -  HB    Hordabe

H – nnn -  HE    Hamre

H – nnn -  HJ     Hjelme

H – nnn -  HR    Hosanger

H – nnn -  HS    Haus

H – nnn -  J       Jondal

H – nnn -  K       Kvinnherad

H – nnn -  KK    Kinsaruik

H – nnn -  KM    Kvam

H – nnn -  L       Lindas

H – nnn -  LV     Laksevag

H – nnn -  M      Moster

H – nnn -  MD    Modalen

H – nnn -  MF    Masfjorden

H – nnn -  MG    Manger

H – nnn -  ML    Meland

H – nnn -  O      Os

H – nnn -  OA    Odda   

H – nnn -  OR    Osteroy 

H – nnn -  R       Raddy

H – nnn -  S       Sund

H – nnn -  SB    Strandebarm

H – nnn -  SD    Stord

H – nnn -  SK    Skanevik

H – nnn -  SO    Sveio

H – nnn -  SŘ    Sebo

H – nnn -  SR    Samnanger

H – nnn -  SV    Strandvik

H – nnn -  T       Tysnes

H – nnn -  U       Ullensvang

H – nnn -  UK    Ulvik

H – nnn -  V       Vaksdal

H – nnn -  VB    Vikebygd

H – nnn -  VŘ    Varaldsoy

H – nnn -  Ř      Olen

H – nnn -  Ř      Oygarden

H

Hull

England

 

HA

Haparanda

Sweden

 

HA

Harlingen

Netherlands

 

HAF

Haffkrug

Germany

HAL

Halsteren

Netherlands

 

HAR

Harlesiel

Germany

 

HAS

Audeich/Kreuzdeich

Germany

HAS

Hasselt

Netherlands

 

HAT

Hatzum

Germany

 

HB

Het Bildt

Netherlands

 

HB

Hunts Bay

Jamaica

 

HBK

Hamburg

Germany

 

HC

Cuxhaven

Germany

Port letters for high seas fishing boats prior to 1933

HC

Haughton Court

Jamaica

 

HD

Den Helder

Netherlands

 

HD

Halmstad

Sweden

 

HD

Hudson Bay

Jamaica

 

HE

Hayle

England

 

HE

Hope Bay

Jamaica

 

HEI

Heikendorf

Germany

HEIL

Heiligenhaven

Germany

 

HEL

Helgoland

Germany

 

HEL

Hel

Poland

HEN

Hennstedt

Germany

North sea harbour

HEN

Horst

Germany

Baltic sea harbour

HER

Heringsdorf

Germany

 

HET

Hetlingen

Germany

 

HF

Hafnarfjordur

Iceland

 

HF

Hamburg - Finkenwerder

Germany

 

HG

Helsingborg

Sweden

 

HG

Hjoring

Denmark

 

HG

Hodges

Jamaica

 

HG

Hyogo Prefecture

Japan

 

HH

Hamburg

Germany

Port letters for high seas fishing boats 

HH

Harbour Head

Jamaica

 

HH

Harwich

England

 

HI

Hindelopen

Netherlands

 

HK

Harderwijk

Netherlands

 

HK

Holbaek

Denmark

HK

Hokkaido Prefecture

Japan

 

HL

Hemellumer

Netherlands

 

HL

Hartlepool

England

 

HL

Hudiksvall

Sweden

 

HM

Hanstholm

Denmark

HN

Hoorn

Netherlands

 

HND

Harnosand

Sweden

 

HO

Holland Bay

Jamaica

 

HO

Honfleur

France

 

HO

Hoogeveen

Netherlands

 

HO

Horumersiel

Germany

 

HOE

Hoedekenskerke

Netherlands

 

HOH

Hohwacht

Germany

HOK

Hoek

Netherlands

 

HON

Hontenisse

Netherlands

 

HOO

Hooge

Hooksiel

Hoopte

Germany

 

HOR

Horst

Pomerania Germany

Of historic interest only for photographs prior to 1919.  The village is now in Poland, is named Niechorze, and uses the Port Letter NIE

HOR

Horumersiel

Germany

 

HÖR

Hornum (Sylt)

Germany

HP

Hoofdplaat

Netherlands

 

HP

Hopewell

Jamaica

 

HR

Harsova

Romania

 

HR

Hectors River

Jamaica

 

HR

Herkingen

Netherlands

 

HS

Haamstede

Netherlands

 

HS

Hiroshima Prefecture

Japan

 

HS

Houmt Souq

Tunisia

 

HT

Ha Tinh

Province

Vietnam

 

HT

Heenvliet

Netherlands

 

HT

Horta

Faial,  Azores Portugal

 Prior to 2020

HTB

Hout Bay

South Africa

 

HU

Huelva

Spain

HU – 1 – nnn  Ayamonte

HU – 2 – nnn  Isla Cristina

HU – 3 – nnn  Huelva

HU

Hunavatn

Iceland

 

HUB

Hubertsberg

Germany

HUS

Husum

Germany

 

HV

Hadersley

Denmark

 

HV

Harvey’s

Jamaica

 

HV

Hellevoetsluis

Netherlands

 

HV

Hvar

Croatia

 

HVH

Hoek van Holland

Netherlands

 

HVL

Hoogvliet

Netherlands

 

HW

Hoogwoud

Netherlands

 

HW

Hope Wharf

Jamaica

 

HZ

Huizen

Netherlands

 

 

 

 

 

I

Ironshore

Jamaica

 

I

Isigny

France

 

IB

Ibaraki Prefecture

Japan

 

IB

Ibiza

Spain

IB – 1 – nnn  Ibeza

IB – 2 -  nnn  San Antonio Abad

IB – 3 -  nnn  Formentera

IB

Innes Bay

Jamaica

 

IC

Industry Cove

Jamaica

 

IE

Irvine

Scotland

 

IH

Ipswich

England

 

IL

Ilpendam

Netherlands

 

IJM

Ijmuiden

Netherlands

 

IM

Imperia

Italy

 

IND – AP

Andhra Pradesh

India

 

IND – DD

Daman  & Diu

India

DD-02-MM-nnn  Diu motorised – inboard engine

DD-02-MO-nnn   Diu motorised – outboard engine

DD-03-MM-nnn   Daman motorised – inboard

DD-03-MO-nnn   Daman motorised – outboard

IND – GA

Goa

India

 

IND – KA

Karnataka

India

 

IND – KL

Kerala

India

 

IND – LD

Lakshadweep Islands

India

 

IND – TN

Tamal Nadu

India

 

INS

Inverness

Scotland

IO

Ilo

Peru

 

IO

Isle d'Oleron

France

 

IS

Isafjordur

Iceland

 

IS

Ishikawa Prefecture

Japan

 

IS

Ist

Croatia

 

ITZ

Itzehoe

Germany

 

IW

Iwatw Prefecture

Japan

 

IZ

 Izola

Slovenia

 

 

 

 

 

J

 

Jersey

 

JAN

Jantar

Poland

 

JAR

Jaroslawiec

Poland

 

JAS

Jastarnia

Poland

JB

Jablanac

Croatia

 

JB

Jackson Bay

Jamaica

 

JEL

Jelitkowo

Poland

 

JEM

Jemgum

Germany

 

JFN

Jaffna Fisheries District

Sri Lanka

 

JHF

Johor State

Malaysia

JHF = Commercial fishing boat

JHS = Sampan fishing boat

JHI

Hai

Tanzania

 

JHS

Johor State

Malaysia

JHF = Commercial fishing boat

JHS = Sampan fishing boat

JJ

 Jijel

 Algeria

 May appear on boat as Latin script JJ or as  Arabic script   ج ج

JL

Jelsa

Croatia

 

JMH

Moshi rural

Tanzania

 

JMN

Mwanga

Tanzania

 

JN

Sabah State

Malaysia

See entry for SJN

JT

Johnson Town

Jamaica

 

JRB

Rombo

Tanzania

 

JSE

Same

Tanzania

 

J3

 

Grenada

Uses the first 2 symbols of the country international radio code as the “Port Letter”. 

J6

 

St. Lucia

Uses the first 2 symbols of the country international radio code as the “Port Letter”

J7

 

Dominica

Uses the first 2 symbols of the country international radio code as the “Port Letter”

 

 

 

 

K

Kaliningrad

Russia

 Also appears to use KB, KI and KE  - see below

K

Kieldrecht

Belgium

 

K

Kingston

Jamaica

 

K

Kirkwall

Orkney Islands Scotland

K

Kopenhagen

Denmark

 

K

Kristiania

(Christiania)

Norway

Of historic interest for photographs dating prior to 1926.  The city is now known as Oslo and uses the Port Letter “O”

KA

Karlskrona

Sweden

 

KAM

Kamminke

Germany

 

KAM

Kamien Pomorski

Poland

 

KAP

Kappeln

Germany

 

KAR

Karlshagen

Germany

 

KAS

Kasenort

Germany

KAT

Katy Rybackie

Poland

 

KC

Kochi Prefecture

Japan

 

KCH

Kilinochchi Fisheries District

Sri Lanka

 

KB  ( )

Kaliningrad

Russia

Appears on boat as cyrillic

KB

Kalk Bay

South Africa

 

KB

Karlobag

Croatia

 

KB

Krabbendijke

Netherlands

 

KD

Kristianstad

Sweden

 

KD

Kattendijke

Netherlands

 

KE ( )

Kaliningrad

Russia

Port letters on Russian fishing boats are in Cyrillic script.  KE is the nearest Latin script equivalent to the Cyrillic letters

KE

Koege

Denmark

KE

Keflavik

Iceland

 

KE

Kerkwerve

Netherlands

 

KEL

Kellenhusen

Germany

KET

Ketelsby

Germany

KG

Klaksvig

Faeroe Islands

 

KG

Kagawa Prefecture

Japan

 

KG

Kortgene

Netherlands

 

KG

Kien Gang

Province

Vietnam

 

KH

Khanh Hoa

Province

Vietnam

 

KH

Kolhorn

Netherlands

 

KHA

Kleinhagen

Germany

 

KHF

Kedah State

Malaysia

KHF = Commercial fishing boat

KHS = Sampan fishing boat

KHS

Kedah State

Malaysia

KHF = Commercial fishing boat

KHS = Sampan fishing boat

KIE

Kiel

Germany

KK

Koudekerke

Netherlands

 

KK

Krk

Croatia

 

KKB

Kibondo

Tanzania

 Lake Tanganyika – Kigoma Region

KKG

Kigoma rural

Tanzania

 Lake Tanganyika – Kigoma Region

KKM

Kigoma urban

Tanzania

 Lake Tanganyika – Kigoma Region

KKU

Kasulu

Tanzania

 Lake Tanganyika – Kigoma Region

KL

Klaipeda

Lithuania

Also appears to use LT-P-

KL

Klundert

Netherlands

 

KLT

Kalutara Fisheries District

Sri Lanka

 

KM

Kumamoto Prefecture

Japan

 

KMN

Kalmunai Fisheries District

Sri Lanka

 

KMN

Kamienica Elblaska

Poland

 

KN

Kanagawa Prefecture

Japan

 

KN

Karlshamn

Sweden

 

KN

Kruiningen

Netherlands

 

KNF

Kelantan State

Malaysia

KNF = Commercial fishing boat

KNS = Sampan fishing boat

KNO

Knock

Germany

KNS

Kelantan State

Malaysia

KNF = Commercial fishing boat

KNS = Sampan fishing boat

KO

Koog aan der Zaan

Netherlands

 

KO

Korcula

Croatia

 

KOEL

Koelpinsee

Germany

 

KOL

Kollmar

Germany

 

KÖL

Kolpinsee

Germany

 

KOL

Kolobrzeg

Poland

KOS

Koserow

Germany

 

KP

Kampen

Netherlands

 

KR

Kalmar

Sweden

 

KP

Koper

Slovenia

 

KR

Korsor

Denmark

 

KR

Kraljevica

Croatia

 

KRA

Kraksdorf

Germany

KRM

Krynica Morskai

Poland

 

KRO

Kronsgaard

Germany

KRÖ

Kroeslin

Germany

 

KRS

Karsibor

Poland

 

KS

Kagoshima Prefecture

Japan

 

KU

Kuinre

Netherlands

 

KÜH

Kuehlungsborn

Germany

 

KUZ

Kuznica

Poland

 

KV

Kavarna

Bulgaria

Port letters on Bulgarian fishing boats are in Cyrillic script.  KV is the nearest Latin script equivalent to the Cyrillic letters KB or Kb

KW

Katwijk

Netherlands

 

KY

Kirkcaldy

Scotland

KY

Kyoto Prefecture

Japan

 

KZ

Komiza

Croatia

 

KZI

Klein Zicker

Germany

 

 

 

 

 

L

Lannion

France

 

L

Laughlands

Jamaica

 

L

Lemvig

Denmark

 

L

Limerick

Ireland

 

L

Lisbon

Portugal

 

L

Luderitz

Namiba

Namibia uses the registration letter “L” for all fishing vessels

LA

Landskrona

Sweden

 

LA

Liepaja

Latvia

Also appears to use LVL

LA

Llanelli

Wales

 

LA

Long Acre

Jamaica

 

LA

Lulea

Sweden

 

LAB

Laboe

Germany

 

LAN

Langballigau

Germany

Baltic sea harbour

LAN

Langeness

Germany

North sea harbour

LANG

Langholz

Germany

LAS

Lassan

Germany

 

LAU

Lauterbach

Germany

 

LB

Lances Bay

Jamaica

 

LBN

Lubin

Poland

 

LC

Lucea

Jamaica

 

LE

Luneburgisch Finkenwarder

Germany

historic

LE

Leixoes

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

LE

Lemsterland

Netherlands

 

LEB

Leba

Poland

LEBA

Leba

Germany

Historic marks only applicable before 1945.  Territorial and political changes after 1945 have resulted in Leba becoming part of Poland

LEE

Leerort

Germany

 

LEM

Lemkenhafen

Germany

LF

Luneburgisch Finkenwarder

Germany

 

LG

Lagos

Portugal

 

LH

Le Havre

France

 

LH

Leith

Scotland

LH

Leith Hall

Jamaica

 

LHA

Nachingwea

Tanzania

 

LI

Littlehampton

England

 

LI

Livorno

Italy

 

LIN

Lindaunis

Germany

 

LIP

Lippe

Germany

LIST

List auf Sylt

Germany

 

LIZ

Lietzow

Germany

 

LK

ΛK

Corfu

(Kerkyra)

Greece

Port letters appear on boats as ΛK in Greek script.  LK is the Latin alphabet equivalent

LK

Lerwick

Shetland Islands Scotland

LK

Lubeck

Germany

LKW

Kilwa

Tanzania

 

LL

Landdrostei Luneburg

Germany

historic

LL

Limassol

Cyprus

 

LL

Liverpool

England

 

LL

Lysekil

Sweden

 

LLD

Lindi rural

Tanzania

 

LLE

Liwale

Tanzania

 

LLM

Lindi urban

Tanzania

 

LM

La Maddalena

Italy

 

LM

Landsmeer

Netherlands

 

LN

Lokken

Denmark

LN

Kings Lynn

England

 

LNF

Labuan Federal Territory

Malaysia

LNF = Commercial fishing vessel

LNG

Linkoping

Sweden

 

LO

Lauwersoog

Netherlands

 

LO

London

England

LO

Long Bay

Jamaica

 

LO

Lorient

France

 

LOB

Lobbe

Germany

 

LOG

Loga

Germany

 

LP

Lajes

Azores Portugal

 Prior to 2020

LP

Loppersum

Netherlands

 

LR

Lancaster

England

 

LR

La Rochelle

France

 

LS

Leens

Netherlands

 

LS

Sables d'Olonne

France

 

LT-P-

Klaipeda

Lithuania

Also appears to use KL

LT

Little Bay

Jamaica

 

LT

Lowestoft

England

 

LU

Lielupe

Latvia

 

LU

Lugo

Spain

LU – 1 – nnn  Ribadeo

LU – 2 -  nnn  Burela

LU – 3 -  nnn  Vivero

LUB

Lubmin

Germany

 

LUD

Ludwigsburg

Germany

 

LUN

Nesserdeich

Germany

LUT

Lutow

Germany

 

LVL

Liepaja

Latvia

Also appears to use LA

LVR

Riga

Latvia

Also appears to use RG

LVV

Ventspils

Latvia

Also appears to use VP

LW

Leewarden

Netherlands

 

LX

Lisbon

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

LY

Londonderry

Northern Ireland

 

LY

Lyssons

Jamaica

 

 

 

 

 

M

Manchioneal

Jamaica

 

M

Middelkerke

Belgium

M

Marstal

Denmark

 

M

Milford Haven

Wales

 

M

Melilla

Spain

 

M

Mor og Romsdal

Norway

M – nnn -  A      Alesund

M – nnn -  AE    Aure 

M – nnn -  AK    Aukra  

M – nnn -  AS    Asskard

M – nnn -  AV    Averoy

M – nnn -  B      Borgund  (historic)

M – nnn -  BL    Bolsoy    (historic)

M – nnn -  BS    Bremsnes  (historic)

M – nnn -  BU    Bud  (historic)

M – nnn -  BV    Bratvaer  (historic)

M – nnn -  D      Dalsfjord

M – nnn -  E      Edoy

M – nnn -  ED    Eid

M – nnn -  EE    Eide

M – nnn -  EV    Eresfjord

M – nnn -  F      Frena

M – nnn -  FI      Frei  (historic)

M – nnn -  G      Giske

M – nnn -  GP    Grip  (historic)

M – nnn -  GS    Gjemnes

M – nnn -  GT    Grytten

M – nnn -  H      Haram

M – nnn -  HD    Hareid

M – nnn -  HF    Hjorundfjord

M – nnn -  HN    Hen

M – nnn -  HP    Hopen  (historic)

M – nnn -  HS    Halsa

M – nnn -  HO    Heroy

M – nnn -  HU    Hustad  (historic)

M – nnn -  K      Kristiansund

M – nnn -  KD    Kornstad  (historic)

M – nnn -  KS    Kvernes

M – nnn -  M      Molde

M – nnn -  MD   Midsund

M – nnn -  N      Nesset

M – nnn -  NA    Nord Aukra  (historic)

M – nnn -  NL    Norddal

M – nnn -  R      Rovde

M – nnn -  RA    Rauma

M – nnn -  S      Sande

M – nnn -  SA    Sor Aukra   (historic)

M – nnn -  SA    Sula

M – nnn -  SE    Syvde

M – nnn -  SH    Stemshaug

M – nnn -  SJ    Skodje

M – nnn -  SK    Sykkylven

M – nnn -  SL    Stordal

M – nnn -  SM   Smola

M – nnn -  SN    Sunnylven

M – nnn -  SR    Surnadal

M – nnn -  SS    Straumsnes

M – nnn -  ST    Stranda

M – nnn -  SU    Sunndal

M – nnn -  SO    Sandoy

M – nnn -  SV    Stangvik

M – nnn -  T       Tustna  (historic)

M – nnn -  TF     Tresfjord

M – nnn -  TV    Tingvoll

M – nnn -  U      Ulstein

M – nnn -  V      Vigra  (historic)

M – nnn -  VA    Volda

M – nnn -  VD    Orsta

M – nnn -  VE    Vatne  (historic)

M – nnn -  VF    Valsoyfjord

M – nnn -  VL    Voll

M – nnn -  VN    Vanylven

M – nnn -  VO    Veoy

M – nnn -  VS    Vestnes

M – nnn -  Ř      Orsta

M – nnn -  ŘE    Ore

M – nnn -  ŘG   Orskog

M

Murmansk

Russia

See Cyrillic alphabet at the end of this table for additional Port Letters

MA

Maio

Cape Verde Islands

 

MA

Makarska

Croatia

 

MA

Malaga

Spain

MA – 1 – nnn  Estapona

MA – 2 – nnn  Marbella

MA – 3 – nnn  Fuengirola

MA – 4 – nnn  Malaga

MA – 5 – nnn  Velez – Malaga

MA – 6 – nnn  Motril  (historic)

MA

Maassluis

Netherlands

 

MA

Mahdia

Tunisia

 

MA

Mahoe Bay

Jamaica

 

MA

Marseilles

France

 

MAA

Maasholm

Germany

 

MAH

Mahlzow

Germany

 

MB

Market Beach

Jamaica

 

MBA

Mossel Bay

South Africa

 

MC

Marina Di Carrara

Italy

 

MC

Mosquuito Cove

Jamaica

 

MD

Marstrand

Sweden

 

MD

Moscenicka Draga

Croatia

 

ME

Medemblik

Netherlands

 

ME

Mie Prefecture

Japan

 

ME

Messina

Sicily   Italy

 

ME

Montrose

Scotland

ME

Mount Edgecomb

Jamaica

 

MEC

Mechelinki

Poland

 

MEL

Meldorf

Germany

 

MF

Manfredonia

Italy

 

 

 

 

MFA

 

MFB

 

MFC

 

MFD

 

 

 

 

Malta

This style of port letters has been used from 2004 onwards.  Prior to 2004 boats use either F (full time) or PT (part time) as the registration letters

MFA and MFB are the professional categories -  vessels whose catch can be marketed. The difference between them is that MFA are full time vessels while MFB are part time.

MFC vessels are vessels that cannot commercialize their catch. (eg recreational fishing. They are restricted in the type of fishing gear that can be used ).

MFD registrations are completely different from those described previously. MFD vessels are not engaged in the catching of fish. Specifically, the MFD category involves auxiliary vessels such as those involved in the carriage of fish or assistance on fish farms.

MG

Mangalia

Romania

 

MG

Middelburg

Netherlands

 

MG

Miyagi Prrefecture

Japan

 

MG

Mostaganem

Algeria

may appear on boat as Latin script MG

or as Arabic script  ‎ ‎ غ م

MGA

Geita

Tanzania

Lake Victoria – Mwanza Region

MH

Menorca

Spain

MH – 1 – nnn  Ciudadela

MH – 2 – nnn  Mahon

MH

Middlesborough

England

MIK

Mikoszewo

Poland

 

MIW

Miedzywodzie

Poland

 

MIZ

Miedzyzdroje

Poland

 

MK

Malinska

Croatia

 

MK

Marken

Netherlands

 

MK

Murmansk

Russia

May also use port letter M

MKM

Malya

Tanzania

 Lake Victoria – Mwanza Region

ML

Maasland

Netherlands

 

ML

Mali Losinj

Croatia

 

ML

Methil

Scotland

ML

Molfetta

Italy

 

MLL

Melilla

Spanish North Africa

MML – 1 – nnn  Melilla

MLT

Mullativu Fisheries District

Sri Lanka

 

MM

Mamaia

Romania

 

MM

Mom

Sweden

 

MMM

Mammee Bay

Jamaica

 

MMW

Mwanza City

Tanzania

 Lake Victoria – Mwanza Region

MMWG

Nyamagana

Tanzania

 Lake Victoria – Mwanza Region

MMWL

Ilemela

Tanzania

 Lake Victoria – Mwanza Region

MN

Maldon

England

 

MN

Marennes

France

 

MN

Milna

Croatia

 

MN

Monfalcone

Italy

 

MNR

Mannar Fisheries District

Sri Lanka

 

MO

Malmo

Sweden

 

MO

Mollendo

Peru

 

MO

Monastir

Tunisia

 

MO

Monnikendam

Netherlands

 

MO

Morant Bay

Jamaica

 

MÖN

Moenkebude

Germany

 

MP

Meppel

Netherlands

 

MR

Manchester

England

MR

Mersrags

Latvia

 

MRZ

Mrzezyno

Poland

 

MSR

Sengerema

Tanzania

 Lake Victoria – Mwanza Region

MSU

Misungwi

Tanzania

 

MT

Martigues

France

 

MT

Maryport

England

 

MT

Metkovic

Croatia

 

MT

Middlefart

Denmark

 

MT

Mitchell Town

Jamaica

 

MTR

Matara Fisheries District

Sri Lanka

 

MU

Muiden

Netherlands

 

MU

Murter

Croatia

 

MUK

Mukran

Germany

 

MUK

Ukerewe

Tanzania

 Lake Victoria – Mwanza Region

MUM

Magu

Tanzania

 Lake Victoria – Mwanza Region

MUN

Munkmarsch-Sylt

Germany

 

MV

Mazara del Vallo

Sicily  Italy

 

MX

Morlaix

France

 

MZ

Milazzo

Sicily  Italy

 

MZ

Miyazaki Prefecture

Japan

 

 

 

 

 

N

Nakskov

Denmark

 

N

Nazare

Portugal

Prior to 2020

N

Neringa

Lithuania

 

N

Newport

Wales

 

N

Newry

Northern Ireland

 

N

Nieuwpoort

Belgium

 

N

Nordland

Norway

N -  nnn -  A      Andenes  (historic)

N – nnn – A       Andoy                  

N – nnn – AH     Alstahaug

N – nnn – AN     Ankenes  (historic)

N – nnn – B       Bodo

N – nnn – BA     Beiarn

N – nnn – BD    Bronnoysund

N – nnn – BE     Borge     (historic)

N – nnn – BG    Ballangen

N – nnn – BJ     Bjornskinn

N – nnn – BL     Bindal

N – nnn – BN     Bodin  (historic)

N – nnn – BR     Bronnoy

N – nnn – BS     Buksnes  (historic)

N – nnn – BO    Bo

N – nnn – D       Dverberg

N – nnn – DA    Donna

N – nnn -  DA    Drevja (historic)

N – nnn – DS    Donnes  (historic)

N – nnn – E       Evenes

N – nnn – F       Flakstad

N – nnn – FE     Fauske

N – nnn – G       Gildeskal

N – nnn – GM    Gimsoy  (historic)

N – nnn – H       Hadsel

N – nnn – HL     Hol  (historic)

N – nnn – HM    Hamaroy

N – nnn – HR     Heroy

N – nnn – HS     Hemnes

N – nnn – K       Kjerringoy  (historic)

N – nnn – KN     Korgen

N – nnn – L       Luroy

N – nnn – LF     Leirfjord

N – nnn – LN     Lodingen

N – nnn – LR     Leiranger  (historic)

N – nnn – LS     Langenes  (historic)

N – nnn – M      Mosjoen

N – nnn – ME    Meloy

N – nnn – MO    Mo

N – nnn – MS    Moskenes

N – nnn – N       Narvik

N – nnn – NA     Nesna

N – nnn – NF     Nordfold  (historic)

N – nnn – NR     Nord Rana

N – nnn – NV     Nordvik

N – nnn – R       Roddy

N – nnn – RA     Rana

N – nnn – RT     Rost

N – nnn -  S       Svolver (historic)

N – nnn – SA     Somna

N – nnn – SD    Skjerstad

N – nnn – SF     Sorfold

N – nnn – SG    Steigen

N – nnn – SL     Saltdal

N – nnn – SO    Sortland

N – nnn – SR     Sor Rana

N -  nnn -  SS    Sandnessjoen (historic)

N – nnn – SS     Stamnes

N – nnn – T       Tjotta  (historic)

N – nnn – TF     Tysfjord

N – nnn – TN     Trena

N – nnn – TS     Tjeldsund

N – nnn – V       Vagan

N – nnn – VA     Vega

N – nnn – VB     Varlberg  (historic)

N – nnn – VF     Velfjord

N – nnn – VK     Vik

N – nnn – VN     Vefsn

N – nnn – VR     Veroy

N – nnn – VS     Vevelstad

N – nnn – VV     Vestvagoy

N – nnn – Ř       Oksnes

N

Norwich

Jamaica

 

NA

Accumersiel

Germany

Port letters for high seas fishing boats.  Coastal fishing boats use Port Letters ACC

NA

Aruba

Dutch Caribbean

 

NA

Nantes

France

 

NA

Naples

Italy

 

NA

Nighe An

Province

Vietnam

 

NB

Bonaire

Dutch Caribbean

 

NB

Brake

Germany

Port letters for high seas fishing vessels.  Coastal fishing boats used the letters BRA

NB

Nieuw Beierland

Netherlands

 

NBO

Negombo Fisheries District

Sri Lanka

 

NC

Curacao

Dutch Caribbean

 

NC

Cuxhaven

Germany

Port letters for high seas fishing vessels.  Coastal fishing boats used the letters CUX

NC

 

New Caledonia

French Overseas Collectivity in the Pacific Ocean

ND

Nakhodka

Russia

Appears  on boat as Cyrillic letters  НД

ND

Novigrad (Cittanova)

Croatia

 

ND

Nyord

Denmark

ND

Nieuwe Niedorp

Netherlands

 

ND

Norddeich

Germany

Port letters for high seas fishing vessels.  Coastal fishing boats used the letters NOR

NE

Newcastle

England

 

NE

Sint Eustatius

Duch Caribbean

 

NEE

Neeberg

Germany

 

NEK

Neuenkirchen

Germany

 

NEL

Neuenlandersiel

Germany

 

NEO

Neuhaus

Germany

 

NER

Neuendorf

Germany

 

NES

Nessmersiel

Germany

 

NEU

Neuharlingersiel

Germany

 North sea harbours

NEU

Neustadt Holstein

Germany

Baltic sea harbour

NEUK

Neukirchen

Germany

NEW

Neuendorf Wolgast

Germany

 

NF

Nykjobing

Denmark

 

NFD

Mufindi

Tanzania

 

NG

Ditzum/Emden

Germany

 

NG

Negril

Jamaica

 

NG

Novigrad (Dalmacija)

Croatia

 

NG

Nyborg

Denmark

 

NG

Nykoping

Sweden

 

NH

Newton Haven

England

 

NI

Nice

France

 

NI

Nieuwendam

Netherlands

 

NI

Nigata Prefecture

Japan

 

NID

Nidden

Germany

Only of historic interest to identify photographs before 1945.  This fishing port was formerly located in Prussia and then Germany, but is now in Lithuania and the name has changed to Nida

NIE

Niechorze

Poland

 

NIE

Niendorf

Germany

NIK

Kilolo

Tanzania

 

NIR

Iringa

Tanzania

 

NK

Neskaupstadur

Iceland

 

NK

Nijkerk

Netherlands

 

NKG

Norrkoping

Sweden

 

NM

Nine Miles

Jamaica

 

NM

Sint Marteen

Dutch Caribbean

 

NMK

Makete

Tanzania

 

NN

Nagano Prefecture

Japan

 

NN

Newhaven

England

 

NND

Njombe

Tanzania

 

NO

Noirmoutier

France

 

NO

Novi Vinodolski

Croatia

 

NOR

Norddeich

Germany

Port letters for coastal fishing boats.  High seas fishing boats use Port letters ND

NR

Nara Prefecture

Japan

 

NRE

Neu Reddevitz

Germany

 

NRW

Rudewa

Tanzania

 

NS

Nagasaki Prefecture

Japan

 

NS

Nessebar

Bulgaria

Port letters on Bulgarian fishing boats are in Cyrillic script and will display on the boat as, approximately HC. The nearest latin script equivalent is NS

NS

New Ross

Ireland

 

NS

Saba

Dutch Caribbean

 

NS

Seydisfjordur

Iceland

 

NT

Ninh Thuan

Province

Vietnam

 

NT

Nord-Trondelag

Norway

NT – nnn – A     Asen

NT – nnn – B     Beitstad

NT – nnn – E     Egge

NT – nnn – F     Flatanger

NT – nnn – FA   Frostna

NT – nnn – FD   Foldereid

NT – nnn – FL    Frol

NT – nnn – FS   Fosnes

NT – nnn – G     Gravvik

NT – nnn – I       Inderoy

NT – nnn – K     Kolvereid

NT – nnn – L      Levanger

NT – nnn – LA   Leka

NT – nnn – LV   Leksvik

NT – nnn – M     Malm

NT – nnn – MV  Mosvik

NT – nnn – N     Namsos

NT – nnn – NL   Namalseid

NT – nnn – NR   Neroy

NT – nnn – O     Otteroy

NT – nnn – OL   Ogndal

NT – nnn – R     Rora

NT – nnn – S     Steinkjer

NT – nnn – SB   Sparbu

NT – nnn – SD   Stjordal

NT – nnn – SK   Skogn

NT – nnn – SN   Sandvollan

NT – nnn – SV   Skatvaal

NT – nnn – V     Vikna

NT – nnn – VL   Verdal

NT – nnn – VN   Verran

NT – nnn – VV   Vemondvik

NT – nnn – Y     Ytteroy

NTO

Nieuwe Tonge

Netherlands

 

NV

Nieuw Vossemeer

Netherlands

 

NV

Novalja

Croatia

 

NW

Noordwijk

Netherlands

 

NZ

Nazare

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

NZ

Terneuzen

Netherlands

 

 

 

 

 

O

Odense

Denmark

 

O

Olhao

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

O

Oracabessa

Jamaica

 

O

Oslo

Norway

O – nnn – O      Oslo

O

Ostende

Belgium

 

Ř

Řstfold

Norway

Ř – nnn – B       Berg

Ř – nnn – BO    Borge

Ř – nnn – F       Fredrikstad

Ř – nnn – G      Glemmen

Ř – nnn – H       Hvaler

Ř – nnn – HD    Halden

Ř – nnn – K       Krakeroy

Ř – nnn – M      Moss

Ř – nnn – O      Onsoy

Ř – nnn – R       Rygge

Ř – nnn – RD    Rade

Ř – nnn – S       Sarpsborg

Ř – nnn – SB    Skjeberg

Ř – nnn – T       Torsnes

Ř – nnn – TU     Tune

OB

Bezirk Brake

Germany

 

OB

Oban

Scotland

OB

Orange Bay

Jamaica

 

OD

Ouddrop

Netherlands

 

OD

Oost Duinkerke

Belgium

 

OBD

Oudenbosch

Netherlands

 

OBL

Obluze

Poland

 

OE

Elsfleth

Germany

 

OF

Olafsfuordur

Iceland

 

OF

Old Folly

Jamaica

 

OG

Orange Bay

Jamaica

 

OH

Oosthuizen

Netherlands

 

OH

Orange Hill

Jamaica

 

OHB

Old Harbour Bay

Jamaica

 

OHR

Ohrfeldhaff

Germany

OIG

Igunga

Tanzania

 

OK

Ouwerkerk

Netherlands

 

OK

Ornskoldsvik

Sweden

 

OKS

Oksywie

Poland

 

OL

Olbia

Sardinia  Italy

 

OL

Olhao

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

OL

Oostdongeradel

Netherlands

 

OLA

Oland

Germany

 

OLD

Oldersum

Germany

 

OLP

Olpenitz

Germany

OM

Omisalj

Croatia

 

ON

Nordenham

Germany

 

ON

Okinawa Prefecture

Japan

 

ON

Oskarshamn

Sweden

 

ONZ

Nzega

Tanzania

 

OO

Oosterland

Netherlands

 

OO

Oldenburg

Germany

 

OP

Opatija

Croatia

 

OR

Ocho Rios

Jamaica

 

OR

Oran

Algeria

 

OR

Orebic

Croatia

 

OR

Ortona

Italy

 

OR

Rustringen Wilhelmshaven

Germany

 

ORD

Ording

Germany

 

ORL

Orlowo

Poland

 

ORT

Orth

Germany

OS

Omis

Croatia

 

OS

Oristano

Sardinia  Italy

 

OS

Osaka Prefecture

Japan

 

OS

Ossenisse

Netherlands

 

OSK

Sikonge

Tanzania

 

OT

Oita Prefecture

Japan

 

OTB

Tabora

Tanzania

 

OTT

Otterndorf

Germany

 

OUR

Urambo

Tanzania

 

OUY

Uyui

Tanzania

 

OV

Oud Vossemeer

Netherlands

 

OV

Varel

Germany

 

OW

Wangeroog

Germany

 

OWS

O & W Souburg

Netherlands

 

OX

Blexen

Germany

 

OY

Okayama Prefecture

Japan

 

OZ

Oostzaan

Netherlands

 

 

 

 

 

P

Paimpol

France

 

P

La Panne

Belgium

 

P

Petropavlovsk

Russia

Port letters on Russian fishing boats are in Cyrillic script.  P is the nearest Latin script equivalent to the Cyrillic Π

P

Portsmouth

England

 

P

Prospect

Jamaica

 

PA

Palermo

Sicily  Italy

 

PA

Pitea

Sweden

 

PA

Port Antonio

Jamaica

 

PAF

Pahang State

Malaysia

PAF  = Commercial fishing boat

PAS = Sampan fishing boat

PAP

Papenburg

Germany

 

PAS

Pahang State

Malaysia

PAF = Commercial fishing boat

PAS = Sampan fishing boat

PAS

Nowa Pasleka

Poland

 

PC

Cranz an der Elbe

Germany

 

PC

Pescara

Italy

 

PD

Paradise

Jamaica

 

PD

Peterhead

Scotland

PD

Ponta Delgada

Sao Miguel, Azores  Portugal

 Prior to 2020

PE

Peniche

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

PE

Pera

Jamaica

 

PE

Poole

England

PE

Porto Empedocle

Sicily  Italy

 

PEA

Port Elizabeth

South Africa

 

PEE

Peenemunde

Germany

 

PEH

Perth

Scotland

PEL

Pellworm

Germany

 

PEP

Pepelow

Germany

 

PET

Petkum

Germany

 

PF

Passage Fort

Jamaica

 

PF

Portoferraio

Italy

 

PG

Cuxhaven

Germany

Historic port letters for high seas fishing boats 1933 - 1949

PG

Pag

Croatia

 

PG

Pagee

Jamaica

 

PGW

Port Glasgow

Scotland

PH

Philippeville

Algeria

Of historic interest only. These Port Letters relate to the period of French colonial rule.  The town is now called Skikda

PH

Plymouth

England

 

PH

Port Henderson

Jamaica

 

ţH

Ţorshofn

Iceland

TH is the nearest English equivalent to the Icelandic letter ţ,  so ţorshofn = Thorshofn

PI

Philippine

Netherlands

 

PI

Piran

Slovenia

 

PIA

Piaski

Poland

 

PKF

PKS

Perak State

Malaysia

PKF  = Commerical fishing boat

PKS = Sampan fishing boat

PL

Paimpol

France

 

PL

Peel

Isle of Man

 

PL

Pimentel

Peru

 

PL

Ploce

Croatia

 

PM

Mallorca

Spain

PM – 1 – nnn  Palma de Mallorca

PM – 2 -  nnn  Alcudia

PM – 3 – nnn  Mahon

PM – 4 – nnn  Cuidadeia

 

PM – 2 – nnn  Andraitx  (historic)

PM – 3 – nnn  Palma     (historic)

PM – 4 – nnn  Alcudia    (historic)

PM

Pomorie

Bulgaria

Port letters on Bulgarian fishing boats are in Cyrillic script.  PM is the nearest Latin script equivalent to the Cyrillic Π M

PM

Portimao

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

PM

Port Morant

Jamaica

 

PM

Purmerend

Netherlands

 

PMH

Princess Margaret Hospital Beach

Jamaica

 

PMR

Priestman’s River

Jamaica

 

PN

Pointe Noir

Congo

PN

Preston

England

 

PN

Punat

Croatia

 

PO

Pavisosta

Latvia

 

PO

Porec

Croatia

 

PO

Portland

England

 

PO

Pozzallo

Sicily  Italy

 

POE

Poel

Germany

 

POG

Pogum

Germany

 

POL

Polchow

Germany

 

PP

Pointe a Pitre

Guadeloupe

French overseas region  -  Caribbean

PPF

Pulau Pinang

State

Malaysia

PPF = Commercial fishing boat

PPS = Sampan fishing boat

PPS

Pulau Pinang

State

Malaysia

PPF = Commercial fishing boat

PPS = Sampan fishing boat

PQ

Berg River

South Africa

 

PR

Pernis

Netherlands

 

PR

Port Royal

Jamaica

 

PR

Preko

Croatia

 

PR

Primorsko

Bulgaria

Port letters on Bulgarian fishing boats are in Cyrillic script.  PR is the nearest Latin script equivalent to the Cyrillic letters П Р

PRE

Prerow A Darss

Germany

 

PRU

Pruchten

Germany

 

PRZ

Przytor

Poland

 

PS

Pesaro

Italy

 

PS

Pisco

Peru

 

PS

Porto Santo

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

PS

Primosten

Croatia

 

PS

Sint Philipsind

Netherlands

 

PSF

Perlis State

Malaysia

PSF = Commercial fishing boat

PSS = Sampan fishing boat

PSS

Perlis State

Malaysia

PSF = Commercial fishing boat

PSS = Sampan fishing boat

PT

Douro

Portugal

 

PT

Paita

Peru

 

PT

Parottee

Jamaica

 

PT

 

Malta

Historic port letter : PT = part time fishing boat.
Since 2004 has been superseded by the MFA/MFB/MFC/MFD series of port letters

PT

Port Talbot

Wales

 

PT

Porto Torres

Sardinia  Italy

 

PT

Port letters after about 2020 all commence with PT followed by a 3 letter code for the invididual port

Portugal

PTAFB   Albufiera

PTADH   Angra do Heroismo   Terceira Azores

PTAVC   Ancora

PTAVE   Aveiro

PTBRO  Barreiro

PTCAM  Caminha

PTCAS   Cascais

PTDUO  Douro

PTEPS   Esposende

PTERC   Ericeira

PTFAO   Faro

PTFDF    Figuera da Foz

PTFNC    Funchal  Madiera

PTFUS    Fuzeta

PTHOR   Horta    Faial Azores

PTLDP    Lajaes  Terceira Azores

PTLEI     Leixoes

PTLIS     Lisbon

PTNZR   Nazare

PTOLH   Olhao

PTPDL    Ponta Delgado  Sao Miguel  Azores

PTPDV    Povoa de Varzim

PTPEN    Peniche

PTPRM   Portimao

PTPRV    Praie da Vitoria

PTPXO    Porto Santo  (Madiera)

PTQRT    Quarteira

PTSAG    Sagres

PTSCF    Santa Cruz da Flores  Azores

PTSCG    Santa Cruz da Graciosa  Azores

PTSET     Setubal

PTSIE      Sines

PTSMO    Sao Martinho do Porto

PTSRP     Sao Roque de Pico  Azores

PTTRF     Trafaria

PTTVR     Tavira

PTVDC     Viana do Castelo

PTVDP     Vila do Porto  Santa Maria Azores

PTVEL      Velas   Sao Jorge Azores

PTVIC       Vila do Conde

PTVFC      Vila Franca do Campo

PTVFX      Vila Franca de Xira

PTVRE      Vila Real de Santo Antonia

PTM

Puttalama Fisheries District

Sri Lanka

 

PU

Pula

Croatia

 

PU

Putten

Netherlands

 

PUC

Puck

Poland

 

PUT

Puttgarden

Germany

 

PV

Poortvliet

Netherlands

 

PV

Port Vendres

France

 

PV

Povoa de Varzim

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

PV

Privlaka

Croatia

 

PW

Padstow

England

 

PY

 

French Polynesia

French Overseas Collectivity in the Pacific Ocean

PY

Phu Yen

Province

Vietnam

 

PY

Priory

Jamaica

 

PZ

Penzance

England

 

 

 

 

 

Q

Quarteira

Portugal

Prior to 2020

QB

Quang Binh

Province

Vietnam

 

QN

Quang Ninh

Province

Vietnam

 

QNa

Quang Nam

Province

Vietnam

 

QNK

Nkasi

Tanzania

 Lake Tanganyika – Rukwa Region

QNg

Quang Ngai

Province

Vietnam

 

QPD

Mpanda

Tanzania

 Lake Tanganyika – Rukwa Region

QSB

Sumbawanga

Tanzania

 Lake Tanganyika – Rukwa Region

QT

Quang Tri

Province

Vietnam

 

QT

Quarteira

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

 

 

 

 

R

Ramsgate

England

 

R

Ribe

Denmark

 

R

Rock

Jamaica

 

R

Rogaland

Norway

R – nnn – A       Akra  (historic)

R – nnn – AL     Ardal

R – nnn – AS     Avaldsnes  (historic)

R – nnn – B       Bokn

R – nnn – E       Egersund

R – nnn – EF     Erfjord

R – nnn – ES     Eigersund

R – nnn – F       Finnoy

R – nnn – FD     Forsand

R – nnn – FR     Fister

R – nnn – G       Gjesdal

R – nnn – H       Haugesund

R – nnn – HA     Ha

R – nnn – HM    Hjelmland

R – nnn – HO    Hole

R – nnn – HT     Hetland

R – nnn – HY     Hoyland

R – nnn – ID      Imsland

R – nnn – J       Jelsa

R – nnn – K       Karmoy

R – nnn – K       Kopervik  (historic)

R – nnn – KP     Klepp

R – nnn – KV     Kvitsoy

R – nnn – L       Lund

R – nnn – M      Musteroy

R – nnn – MA    Madia

R – nnn – N       Nedstrand

R – nnn – NB     Nerbo

R – nnn – O       Ogna

R – nnn – R       Rennesoy

R – nnn – RB     Randaberg       

R – nnn – S       Stavanger

R – nnn – SA     Sauda

R – nnn – SD    Sand (historic)

R – nnn – SD    Suldal

R – nnn – SE     Skare

R – nnn – SG    Sogndal

R – nnn – SH     Skudenes

R – nnn – SI      Sandeid

R – nnn – SJ     Skjold

R – nnn – SK     Sokndal

R – nnn – SL     Stangaland  (historic)

R – nnn – SN     Skudeneshavn

R – nnn – SŘ    Sjernaroy

R – nnn – SO    Sola

R – nnn – SS     Sandnes

R – nnn – ST     Strand

R – nnn – T       Torvastad

R – nnn – TV     Tysver

R – nnn – U       Utsira

R – nnn – V       Varhaug (historic)

R – nnn – V       Vindafjord

R – nnn – VD    Vikedal

R – nnn – VS     Vats

R

Rostock

Germany

 Prior to 1919

R

Rouen

France

 

RA

Rangarvalla

Iceland

 

RA

Ravenna

Italy

 

RA

Roja

Latvia

 

RAD

Radeland

Germany

RAN

Rankwitz

Germany

Baltic sea harbour

RAN

Rantum (Sylt)

Germany

North sea harbour

RB

Rab

Croatia

 

RB

River Bay

Jamaica

 

RBD

Bunda

Tanzania

 Lake Victoria – Mara Region

RC

Rabac

Croatia

 

RC

Reggio Calabria

Italy

 

RD

Ransdorp

Netherlands

 

RD

Reading

Jamaica

 

RE

Region Ecuatorial

Spain

Historic marks that relate to the period of Spanish colonial rule. Political and territorial changes mean they are no longer valid.

 

RE – 1 – nnn  Santa Isabel

RE – 2 – nnn  Bata

RE – 3 – nnn  Rio Benito

RE – 4 – nnn  San Carlos

RE

Regua

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

RE

Reykjavik

Iceland

 

RED

Redentin

Germany

 

RER

Rerik

Germany

 

REW

Rewal

Poland

 

REW

Rewahl

Pomerania Germany

Of historic interest only for photographs prior to 1919. The town is now called Rewal and is in Poland

RG

Ribeira Grande

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

RG

Riga

Latvia

Also appears to use LVR

RG

Rogoznica

Croatia

 

RI

Ringkobing

Denmark

RI

Rio Bueno

Jamaica

 

RIB

Ribnitz

Germany

 

RIT

Rieth

Germany

 

RK

Rijeka

Croatia

 

RK

Rocky Point

Jamaica

 

RL

Rilland

Netherlands

 

RM

Rimini

Italy

 

RMU

Musoma rural

Tanzania

 Lake Victoria – Mara Region

RMUN

Musoma urban

Tanzania

 Lake Victoria – Mara Region

RN

Rio Nuevo

Jamaica

 

RN

Runcorn

England

 

RO

Robins Bay

Jamaica

 

RO

Rogac

Croatia

 

RO

Rome

Italy

 

RO

Ronne

Denmark

 

RO

Rotterdam

Netherlands

 

RO

Rothesay

Scotland

 

ROD

Rodenkirchen

Germany

 

ROS

Rostock

Germany

After 1949

ROW

Rowy

Poland

 

RP

de Rijp

Netherlands

 

RP

Rocky Point

Jamaica

 

RR

Rochester

England

 

RS

Randers

Denmark

 

RS

Rasa

Croatia

 

RS

Rostock

Germany

Historic letters for 1919 - 1922

RST

Serengeti

Tanzania

 Lake Victoria – Mara Region

RT

Rae Town

Jamaica

 

RTE

Tarime

Tanzania

 Lake Victoria – Mara Region

RU

La Reunion

La Reunion

French overseas region  - Indian Ocean

RU

Rudkjobing

Denmark

 

RU

Runaway Bay

Jamaica

 

RUG

Rugenwalde

Pomerania Germany

 Of historic interest only for photographs prior to 1919.  Rugenwalde is now in Poland

RV

Revival

Jamaica

 

RV

Rovinj

Croatia

 

RWL

Rewal

Poland

 

RX

Rye

England

 

RY

Ramsey

Isle of Man

 

RY

Rannsby

Sweden

 

RYS

Rysum

Germany

 

 

 

 

 

S

Skagen

Denmark

 

S

Skibbereen

Ireland

 

S

Smithsfield

Jamaica

 

SA

Amrum

Germany

 

SA

Sagres

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

SA

Salerno

Italy

 

SA

Sali

Croatia

 

SA

Sandfor Sando-Syssel

Iceland

 

SA

Santo Antao

Cape Verde Islands

 

SA

Skelleftea

Sweden

 

SA

St. Anne

Jamaica

 

SA

Swansea

Wales

 

SAL

Sint Annaland

Netherlands

 

SAB

St. Annes Bay

Jamaica

 

SAN

Sansted

Germany

 

SAP

Schaprode

Germany

 

SAS

Sassnitz

Germany

 

SB

Schleswig Burgstaaken

Germany

 

SB

Sanaco Bay

Jamaica

 

SB

San Benedetto del Tronto

Italy

SB

Sesimbra

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

SB

Sibenik

Croatia

 

SB

Sodertelje

Sweden

 

SB

St. Brieuc

France

 

SB

Svaneke

Denmark

 

SBH

Saldanha Bay

South Africa

 

SC

Schleswig Busum

Germany

 

SC

Scilly Islands

England

 

SC

Scotts Cove

Jamaica

 

SC

Sucuraj

Croatia

 

SCH

Scheveningen

Netherlands

 

SCHL

Schlutersiel

Germany

 

SCHLE

Schleswig

Germany

SCHLU

Schlutup

Germany

SCHÖN

Schonberger Strand

Germany

SCHUB

Schuby

Germany

 

SCS

Success

Jamaica

 

SD

Schleswig Altona

Germany

Before 1937

SD

Schleswig Friedrichskoog

Germany

 

SD

Sandy Point

Jamaica

 

SD

Starigrad Paklenica

Croatia

 

SD

Stromstad

Sweden

 

SD

Sunderland

England

 

SDM

Schiedam

Netherlands

 

SE

Elmshorn Seester

Germany

 

SE

Salcombe

England

SE

Senj

Croatia

 

SE

Setubal

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

SE

Sevilla

Spain

SE – 1 – nnn  Sanlucar de Barrameda

SE – 2 – nnn  Sevilla

SE

Skulte

Latvia

 

SE

Sodertetje

Sweden

 

SE

Svaneke

Denmark

 

SEE

Seedorf

Germany

Baltic sea harbour

SEE

Seestermuhe

Germany

North sea harbour

SF

Santa Cruz

Flores, Azores Portugal

 Prior to 2020

SF

Sarawak State

Malaysia

The format as displayed on commercial fishing boats seems to be

SF1-nnn

SF2-nnn

SF3-nnn 

 

Sampans appear to use the format

SFS2 – nnn    SFS3-nnn    etc

SF

Sfax

Tunisia

 

SF

Skaptafells

Iceland

 

SF

Sogn og Fjordane

Norway

SF – nnn -  A        Askvoll

SF – nnn -  AD     Aurland

SF – nnn -  AL      Ardal

SF – nnn -  B        Bremanger

SF – nnn -  BK     Brekke

SF – nnn -  BS     Balestrand

SF – nnn -  BU     Bru

SF – nnn -  D       Davik

SF – nnn -  E       Eid

SF – nnn -  EF     Eikefjord

SF – nnn -  F       Flora

SF – nnn -  FD    Forde

SF – nnn -  FL     Fjaler

SF – nnn -  G      Gulen

SF – nnn -  GP    Gloppen

SF – nnn – GR    Gaular 

SF – nnn -  H      Hyllestad

SF – nnn -  HO    Hafslo  (historic)

SF – nnn -  HO    Hoyanger

SF – nnn -  I        Innvik

SF – nnn -  K      Kinn  (historic)

SF – nnn -  KB    Kyrkjebo

SF – nnn -  L       Leikanger

SF – nnn -  LL     Lerdal

SF – nnn -  LS    Luster

SF – nnn -  LV   Lavik

SF – nnn -  N      Naustdal

SF – nnn -  NV    Nord Vagsoy (historic)

SF – nnn -  S      Selje

SF – nnn -  SD   Sogndal

SF – nnn -  ST    Stryn

SF – nnn -  SU    Solund

SF – nnn -  SV   Sor Vagsoy  (historic)

SF – nnn -  V      Vagsoy

SF – nnn -  V     Vevring (historic)

SF – nnn -  VK    Vik

 

SF

 

 

Singapore

 

 

Singapore

SF – Non mechanically propelled or outboard engine    only

SMF – Inboard engine

SMFC – licensed for carriage only of fish

SMFT – licensed only for towing of nibong poles

SG

Saga Prefecture

Japan

 

SG

Salacgriva

Latvia

 

SG

Santa Cruz

Graciosa, Azores Portugal

 Prior to 2020

SG

Gluckstad

Germany

 

SG

Solveborg

Sweden

 

SG

Spring Garden

Jamaica

 

SG

Starigrad

Croatia

 

SG

Svendborg

Denmark

 

SH

Schleswig Heiligenhaven

Germany

 

SH

Scarborough

England

SH

Snaefellsnes

Iceland

 

SH

Schellinkhout

Netherlands

 

SH

Shiga Prefecture

Japan

 

SH

Snow Hill

Jamaica

 

SH

St. Helena Bay

South Africa

 

SHB

Shabla

Bulgaria

Port letters on Bulgarian fishing boats are in Cyrillic script and will appear on the boat as ШƂ

SI

Safi

Morocco

Historic interest only  - these Port Letters relate to the period of French colonial rule in Morocco

 

These Port Letters were identified on the basis of a single old photograph and should be regarded as provisional

SI

Sidi Ifni

Spanish Morocco

Historic marks that relate to the period of Spanish colonial rule. Political and territorial changes mean they are no longer valid.

SI

Scherpenisse

Netherlands

 

SI

Siglufjordur

Iceland

 

SIE

Sierksdorf

Germany

SIN

Simrishamn

Sweden

 

SJ

Sveti Juraj

Croatia

 

SJN

Sabah State

Malaysia

The lettering,  as applied to the boat,  appears to be in the format

SJN nnn F  where nnn is the individual boat number and the final F = commercial fishing boat

It also appears common for the letter S not to be displayed so the lettering appears as

JN nnn F

SK

Keitum

Germany

North sea harbour

SK

Keil

Germany

Baltic sea harbour

SK

Skagefjord

Iceland

 

SK

Skikda

Algeria

 may appear on boat as Latin script SK

or as Arabic script س ك

SKT

Iramba

Tanzania

 

SL

Sal

Cape Verde Islands

 

SL

Salem

Jamaica

 

SL

Silba

Croatia

 

SL

Stellendam

Netherlands

 

SL

Sulina

Romania

 

SL

Sundsvall

Sweden

 

SL

Schleswig Haffkrug

Germany

 

SLF

Selangor State

Malaysia

SLF = Commercial fishing boat

SLS = Sampan fishing boat

SLM

Salt Marsh

Jamaica

 

SLO

Sloten Friesland

Netherlands

 

SLS

Selangor State

Malaysia

SLF = Commercial fishing boat

SLS = Sampan fishing boat

SM

Muhlenberg Maasholm

Germany

 

SM

Sao Martinho do Porto

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

SM

Seven Miles

Jamaica

 

SM

Shimane Prefecture

Japan

 

SM

Shoreham

England

 

SM

St. Malo

France

 

SM

Stockholm

Sweden

 

SM

Sumartin

Croatia

 

SMA

Smallingerland

Netherlands

 

SMA

St.Margaret’s Bay

Jamaica

 

SMD

St. Maartensdijk

Netherlands

 

SMH

St. Margarets Hope

Orkney Islands Scotland

SMI

Smilde

Netherlands

 

SMY

Manyoni

Tanzania

 

SN

North Shields

England

 

SN

Sao Nicolau

Cape Verde Islands

 

SN

St. Nazare

France

 

SN

Schleswig Neustadt

Germany

SN

Sines

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

SN

Soderhamn

Sweden

SN

Ston

Croatia

 

SNE

Sneek

Netherlands

 

SO

Sonderborg

Denmark

SO

Schleswig Niendorf

Germany

SO

Slano

Croatia

 

SO

Sligo

Ireland

 

SO

Sousse

Tunisia

 

SOP

Sopot

Poland

 

SP

 

St. Pierre and Miquelon

French Territorial Collectivity at the entrance to the Gulf of St. Lawrence

SP

La Spezia

Italy

 

SP

Salmon Point

Jamaica

 

SP

Pellworm

Germany

 

SP

Spaarndam

Netherlands

 

SPA

Spandowerhagen

Germany

 

SPI

Spieka

Germany

 

SR

Kirkeby auf Rom Eckernforde

Germany

 

SR

Salt River

Jamaica

 

SR

Sao Roque

Pico, Azores Portugal

 Prior to 2020

SR

Siracusa

Sicily  Italy

 

SR

Sobra

Croatia

 

SR

Stranraer

Scotland

 

SRN

Schermernorn

Netherlands

 

SS

St. Ives

England

 

SS

San Sebastian

Spain

SS – 1 – nnn  Fuenterrabia

SS – 2 -  nnn  Passajes

SS – 3 – nnn  Guetaria

 

SS  - 1 -  nnn  Passajes  (historic)

SS  - 2 – nnn  San Sebastian  (historic)

SS – 3 – nnn  Zumaya (historic)

SS

Silistra

Bulgaria

Danube river port.  Port letters on Bulgarian fishing boats are in Cyrillic script and will appear on the boat as CC

SS

Susak

Croatia

 

SS

Wedel-Schulau

Germany

 

SSA

Singida urban

Tanzania

 

SSS

South Shields

England

 

SSW

Singida rural

Tanzania

 

ST

Saitama Prefecture

Japan

 

ST

Santander

Spain

ST – 1 – nnn  Castro-Urdiales

ST – 2 – nnn  Laredo

ST – 3 – nnn  Santona

ST – 4 – nnn  Santander

ST – 5 – nnn  Requejada

ST – 6 – nnn  San Vicente de la Barquera

ST

Santiago

Cape Verde Islands

 

ST

Schleswig Tonning

Germany

 

ST

Sete

France

 

ST

Soc Tran

Province

Vietnam

 

ST

Sor-Trondelag

Norway

ST – nnn -  A       Agdenes

ST – nnn -  AA    Afjord

ST – nnn -  B       Bjugn

ST – nnn -  BA    Borsa

ST – nnn -  BT     Byneset

ST – nnn -  BU    Buvik

ST – nnn -  F      Fillan  (historic)

ST – nnn -  F       Froya

ST – nnn -  G      Geitastrand

ST – nnn -  H       Hitra

ST – nnn -  HE    Hemne

ST – nnn -  HM    Heim

ST – nnn -  J       Jossund

ST – nnn -  K       Kvenvaer

ST – nnn -  L       Lenvik

ST – nnn -  N       Nes  (historic)

ST – nnn -  NF     Nord Froya  (historic)

ST – nnn -  O      Osen

ST – nnn -  OL     Ordal

ST – nnn -  OR    Orkanger

ST – nnn -  R       Roan 

ST – nnn -  RS    Rissa

ST – nnn -  S       Stoksund  (historic)

ST – nnn -  SA    Strinda

ST – nnn -  SB    Stadsbygd

ST – nnn -  SD    Sandstad

ST – nnn -  SF     Sor Froya  (historic)

ST – nnn – SI      Snillfjord 

ST – nnn -  SK    Skaun

ST – nnn -  SL     Snilfjord

ST – nnn -  SN    Stjorna  (historic)

ST – nnn -  T       Trondheim

ST – nnn -  V       Vinje

ST – nnn -  Ř      Orland   

ST

Split

Croatia

 

ST

Stavoren

Netherlands

 

ST

Stewart Town

Jamaica

 

ST

Stockton

England

 

ST

Stranda Syssel

Iceland

 

STA

Stade

Germany

North sea harbour

STA

Stahlbrode

Germany

Baltic sea harbour

STE

Stegna

Poland

 

STE

Stein

Germany

STEI

Steinberghaff

Germany

 

STL

Schoterland

Netherlands

 

STL

Stolczyn

Poland

 

STM

St. Mary

Jamaica

 

STO

Stolpemunde

Germany

 

STO

Stoppeldijk

Netherlands

 

STP

Stepnica

Poland

 

STR

Stralsund

Germany

 

STRA

Strande

Germany

STRU

Strukkamp

Germany

St.B

St. Brieue

France

St.VC

St. Valery en Caux

France

 

St.VSS

St Valery sur Somme

France

 

SU

Schleswig Husum

Germany

 

SU

Southampton

England

 

SU

Sudurmula

Iceland

 

SU

Supetar

Croatia

 

SUC

Suchacz

Poland

 

SV

Sao Vicente

Cape Verde Islands

 

SV

Savona

Italy

 

SV

Schleswig Hornum

Germany

 

SV

Stavenisse

Netherlands

 

SVG

Sas van Gent

Netherlands

 

SW

Wyk auf Fohr

Germany

 

SWA

Swarzewo

Poland

 

SWB

Swibno

Poland

 

SWI

Swinoujscie

Poland

SY

Salaverry

Peru

 

SY

Stornoway

Scotland

SY

Schleswig Teufelsbruk

Germany

 

SX

Schleswig Helgoland

Germany

 

SZ

Shizuoka Prefecture

Japan

 

SZ

Sozopol

Bulgaria

Port letters on Bulgarian fishing boats are in Cyrillic script.  SZ is the nearest Latin script equivalent. The port letters on the boat will look like C3 in cyrillic

SZN

Szczecin

Poland

SZT

Sztutowo

Poland

 

 

 

 

 

T

Tavira

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

T

Thistead

Denmark

 

T

Tralee

Ireland

 

T

Troms

Norway

T – nnn -  A      Andorja  (historic)

T – nnn -  AF    Astafjord   (historic)                   

T – nnn – B      Balsfjord

T – nnn – BG    Berg

T – nnn – BK    Bjarkoy  (historic)

T – nnn – D      Dyroy

T – nnn – G      Grantagen

T – nnn – H      Harstad

T – nnn -  HG   Helgoy  (historic)

T – nnn -  HS    Hillesoy (historic)

T – nnn – I        Ibestad

T – nnn – K      Karlsoy

T – nnn – KD    Kafjord

T – nnn – KF    Kvefjord

T – nnn – KN    Kvenangen

T – nnn – L       Lyngen

T – nnn – LK     Lenvik

T – nnn – LV     Lavangen

T – nnn -  M      Malangen (historic)

T – nnn – MV    Malselv

T – nnn – N       Nordreisa

T – nnn – S       Skjervoy

T – nnn – SA     Sorreisa

T – nnn – SD     Storfjord

T – nnn – SK     Skanland

T – nnn – SL     Salangen

T – nnn -  ST     Sandtorg  (historic)

T – nnn – T       Tromso

T – nnn -  TD    Tromsoysund  (historic)

T – nnn – TK     Torsken

T – nnn – TN     Tranoy

T – nnn -  TS     Trondenes  (historic)

T – nnn -  TU     Ullsfjord  (historic)

TA

Tabarka

Tunisia

 

TA

Talara

Peru

 

TA

Taranto

Italy

 

TA

Tarragona

Spain

TA – 1 – nnn  San Carlos de la Rapita

TA – 2 -  nnn  Tarragona

 

TA – 2 – nnn  Tortosa  (historic)

TA – 3 – nnn  Tarragona  (historic)

TAR

Tarnewitz

Germany

 

TB

Ten Boer

Netherlands

 

TC

Tochigi Prefecture

Japan

 

TCO

Trincomalee Fisheries District

Sri Lanka

 

TD

Tietjerksteradeel

Netherlands

 

TE

Tenerife

Spain

TE – 1 – nnn  Santa Cruz de Tenerife

TE – 2 -  nnn  Los Christianos (Arona)

TE – 3 -  nnn  La Palma

TE – 4 -  nnn  Gomera

TE – 5 -  nnn  Hierro 

 

TE – 1 – nnn  La Palma  (historic)

TE – 2 – nnn  Gomera    (historic)

TE – 3 – nnn  Tenerife    (historic)

TE – 4 – nnn  Hierro       (historic)

TER

Terborg

Germany

 

TF

Tenerife

Spain

Some Tenerife fishing boats have been observed with the Port Letter TF.   This appears to be an unofficial local practice as the Spanish register lists these boats officially with a TE Port Letter

TG

Tien Giang

Province

Vietnam

 

TG

Torre Del Greco

Italy

 

TG

Trangisvaag

Faero Islands

 

TG

Trelleborg

Sweden

 

TG

Trogir

Croatia

 

TH

Teignmouth

England

TH

Thanh Hoa

Province

Vietnam

 

TH

Tholen

Netherlands

THD

Handeni

Tanzania

 

THI

Thiessow

Germany

 

TI

Tisno

Croatia

 

TIM

Timmerdorfer Strand

Germany

TK

Telemark

Norway

T – nnn – B       Brevik

T – nnn – BL      Bamble

T – nnn – E       Eidanger

T – nnn – K       Kragero

T – nnn – L        Langesund

T – nnn – P       Porsgrunn

T – nnn – S       Skien

T – nnn – SD     Sannidal

T – nnn – SH     Stathelle

T – nnn – ST      Skatoy

TK

Tokyo Prefecture

Japan

 

TKR

Korogwe

Tanzania

 

TL

Toulon

France

TL

Tulcea

Romania

 

TLE

Tangelle Fisheries District

Sri Lanka

 

TLT

Lushoto

Tanzania

 

TM

Termoli

Italy

 

TM

Termunten

Netherlands

TMZ

Muheza

Tanzania

 

TN

Thorshavn

Faeroe Islands

TN

Torshavn

Denmark

TN

Troon

Scotland

TN

Tutrakan

Bulgaria

Danube river port.  Port letters on Bulgarian fishing boats are in Cyrillic script.  TN is the nearest Latin script equivalent. The port letters on the boat will look like TH or Th

TO

Tigzirt

Algeria

may appear on boat as Arabic script  وت

TO

Tomis

Romania

 

TO

Truro

England

 

TOL

Tolkmicko

Poland

TÖN

Tonning

Germany

 

TP

Trapani

Sicily  Italy

 

TP

Trpanj

Croatia

 

TP

 

South Africa

Some South African fishing boats have the letters TP followed by a number painted on the hull.  This relates to a “Tuna Pole” licence and are not Port Registration Letters

TPA

Pangani

Tanzania

 

TR

Terschelling

Netherlands

 

TR

Tonder

Denmark

 

TR

Trafaria

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

TR

Trouville

France

 

TRA

Travemunde

Germany

TRB

Trzebiez

Poland

 

TRF

Terengganu

State

Malaysia

TRF = Commercial fishing boat

TRS = Sampan fishing boat

TRS

Terengganu

State

Malaysia

TRF = Commercial fishing boat

TRS = Sampan fishing boat

TS

Trieste

Italy

 

TS

Tokushima Prefecture

Japan

 

TSR

Tzarevo

Bulgaria

Port letters on Bulgarian fishing boats are in Cyrillic script.  TSR is the nearest Latin script equivalent to the Cyrillic Ц р

TT

Tarbert

Scotland

 

TT

Tottori Prefecture

Japan

 

TT

Trstenik

Croatia

 

TTA

Tanga Municipality

Tanzania

 

TTH

Thua Thien-Hue

Province

Vietnam

 

TV

Tavira

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

TV

Tra Vinh

Province

Vietnam

 

TX

Texel

Netherlands

 

TY

Toyama Prefecture

Japan

 

 

 

 

 

U

Umea

Sweden

UA

Uddevalla

Sweden

 

UB

Ubli

Croatia

 

UD

Utingeradeel

Netherlands

 

UEK

Ueckermunde

Germany

 

UET

Uetersen

Germany

 

UMM

Ummanz

Germany

 

UTZ

Ueckeritz

Germany

 

UK

Urk

Netherlands

 

UL

Ullapool

Scotland

UM

Umag

Croatia

 

UM

Umea

Sweden

 

UMM

Ummanz

Germany

 

UNI

Uniescie

Poland

 

UPA

Upsala

Sweden

 

USE

Usedom

Germany

 

USM

Ustronie Morskie

Poland

 

UST

Ustka

Poland

UQ

Usquert

Netherlands

 

 

 

 

 

V

Varde

Denmark

 

V

Veen

Netherlands

 

V

Vestfold

Norway

V – nnn -  A       Asgardstrand

V – nnn -  B       Brunlanes  (historic)

V – nnn -  BR    Borre

V – nnn -  BT     Botne

V – nnn -  H       Horten

V – nnn -  HS    Holmestrand

V – nnn -  L       Larvik

V – nnn -  N       Notterroy

V – nnn -  S       Sandefjord

V – nnn -  SA    Sandar

V – nnn -  SD    Sande

V – nnn -  SK    Stokke

V – nnn -  SM    Sem

V – nnn -  SR    Stavern  (historic)

V – nnn -  T       Tonsberg

V – nnn -  TL     Tjolling

V – nnn -  TM    Tjome

V – nnn -  V       Vale

VA

Sandevaag

Faeroe Islands

 

VA

Valencia

Spain

VA – 2 – nnn  Gandia

VA – 3 – nnn  Valencia

VA – 4 – nnn  Sagunto

VA

Vannes

France

 

VA

Vest - Agder

Norway

VA – nnn – A     Austad

VA – nnn – F     Flekkefjord

VA – nnn – FA   Feda

VA – nnn – FS   Farsund

VA – nnn – H     Hidra  (historic)

VA – nnn – HD  Herad

VA – nnn – HH  Halse og Harkmark

VA – nnn – K     Kristiansand

VA – nnn – KL   Kvinesdal

VA – nnn – L     Lista

VA – nnn – LD   Lyngdal

VA – nnn – LS   Lindesnes

VA – nnn – M    Mandal

VA – nnn – N     Nes  (historic)

VA – nnn – O    Oddernes

VA – nnn – R     Randesund

VA – nnn – S     Sogne

VA – nnn – SA  Sor Audnedal

VA – nnn – SD  Spind

VA – nnn – SR  Spangereid  (historic)

VAR

Varel

Germany

 

VC

Sahara Espanol

Spain

Historic marks that relate to the period of Spanish colonial rule. Political and territorial changes mean they are no longer valid.

 

VC – 1 – nnn  Villa Cisneros

VC – 2 – nnn  La Aguera

VC – 3 – nnn  El Aalun

VC

Vila do Conde

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

VD

Vodice

Croatia

 

VD

Volendam

Netherlands

 

VE

Vejle

Denmark

VE

Veere

Netherlands

 

VE

Velas

Sao Jorge, Azores Portugal

 Prior to 2020

VE

Venice

Italy

 

VE

Vestmannaeyjar

Iceland

 

VF

Vila Franca do Campo

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

VG

Varberg

Sweden

 

VG

Viareggio

Italy

 

VH

Venhuizen

Netherlands

 

VI

Viana do Castelo

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

VI

Vigo

Spain

VI – 1 – nnn  Sangenjo

VI – 2 – nnn  Marin

VI – 3 – nnn  Bueu

VI – 4 – nnn  Cangas de Morrazo

VI – 5 – nnn  Vigo

VI – 6 – nnn  Bayona

VI – 7 -  nnn  La Guardia

VI – 7 – nnn  Tuy  (historic)

VI – 8 – nnn  Redondela

VIA

Vitt-Arkona

Germany

 

VILL

Villagarcia

Spain

VILL – 1 – nnn  Ribeira

VILL – 2 – nnn  Caraminal

VILL – 3 – nnn  Villagarcia

VILL – 4 – nnn  El Grove

VILL – 5 – nnn  Cambados

VIT

Vitte

Germany

 

VK

Vostervik

Sweden

 

VL

Vela Luka

Croatia

 

VL

Vlaardingen

Netherlands

 

VLI

Vlissingen

Netherlands

 

VM

Vibo Valentia

Italy

 

VMN

Mbinga

Tanzania

 

VN

Varna

Bulgaria

Port letters on Bulgarian fishing boats are in Cyrillic script.  VN is the nearest Latin script equivalent to the Cyrillic BH

VN

Vestmanhaven

Faeroe Islands

 

VN

Vollenhove

Netherlands

 

VNM

Namtumbo

Tanzania

 

VP

Ventspils

Latvia

Also seems to use LVV

VP

Vila do Porto

Santa Maria, Azores Portugal

 

VR

Villa Real de Santo Antonio 

Portugal

 

VS

Vis

Croatia

 

VS

Visby

Sweden

 

VSG

Songea urban

Tanzania

 

VSO

Songea sub-district

Tanzania

 

VTU

Tunduru

Tanzania

 

VV

Vila Praia da Vitoria

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

VX

Vila Franca de Xira

Portugal

 Prior to 2020

V2

 

Antigua and Barbuda

Uses the first 2 symbols of the country international radio code as the “Port Letter”. 

V4

 

St. Kitts and Nevis

Uses the first 2 symbols of the country international radio code as the “Port Letter”. 

 

 

 

 

W

Waterford

Ireland

 

W

Welcome

Jamaica

 

WA

Whitehaven

England

 

WACK

Wackerballigau

Germany

 

WAN

Wanneperveen

Netherlands

 

WAR

Nowe Warpno

Poland

 

WAR

Warder

Netherlands

 

WAR

Warnemunde

Germany

 

WAS

Warsin

Germany

 

WAT

Warthe

Germany

 

WB

Wijmbritseradeel

Netherlands

 

WD

Wexford

Ireland

 

WDN

Wijdenes

Netherlands

 

WED

Wedel (Holstein)

Germany

 

WEN

Wendtorf

Germany

 

WES

Westeraccumersiel

Germany

 

WEW

Wewelsfleth

Germany

 

WF

Werveshoof

Netherlands

 

WF

Williamsfield

Jamaica

 

WFD

Wolfartskijk

Netherlands

 

WG

Warberg

Sweden

 

WH

Weymouth

England

 

WH

Whitehouse (Gillings Gully)

Jamaica

 

WI

Wisbech

England

 

WIE

Wieck

Germany

 

WIL

Wilhelmshaven

Germany

 

WIN

Winkel

Netherlands

 

WIR

Wiek

Germany

 

WIS

Wischhaven Wismar

Germany

 

WIT

Wittduen

Germany

 

WK

Wakayama Prefecture

Japan

 

WK

Wick

Scotland

WK

Workum

Netherlands

 

WKL

Westkuste

Germany

 

WL

Westdongeradeel

Netherlands

 

WL

Wreck Bay

Jamaica

 

WLA

Wladyslowowo

Poland

WM

Willemstad

Netherlands

 

WMA

Masasi

Tanzania

 

WMD

Wemeldinge

Netherlands

 

WMH

Warmenhuizen

Netherlands

 

WMM

Mtwara urban

Tanzania

 

WMT

Mtwara rural

Tanzania

 

WN

Wigtown

Scotland

 

WNE

Newala

Tanzania

 

WO

Workington

England

 

WOE

Woensdrecht

Netherlands

 

WOG

Wolgast

Germany

 

WOL

Wolin

Poland

 

WON

Wonseradeel

Netherlands

 

WR

White River

Jamaica

 

WR

Wieringen

Netherlands

 

WRE

Wremen

Germany

 

WRW

Wieringerwaard

Netherlands

 

WS

Wells

England

 

WSG

Gorki Wschodnie

Poland

 

WSW

Westerschouwen

Netherlands

 

WT

Westport

Ireland

 

WT

Whitehouse (Flanker)

Jamaica

 

WTH

Tandahimba

Tanzania

 

WTH

White Horses

Jamaica

 

WU

Wilsum

Netherlands

 

WUL

Wulfen

Germany

WUS

Wustrow

Germany

 

WV

Wildervank

Netherlands

 

WW

Weststellingwerf

Netherlands

 

WY

Whitby

England

WYK

Wyk auf Fohr

Germany

 

 

 

 

 

X

Kholmsk

Russia

 

XIL

Ilala

Tanzania

 

XKI

Kinondoni

Tanzania

 

XTK

Temeke

Tanzania

 

 

 

 

 

Y

Yallahs

Jamaica

 

Y

Youghal

Ireland

 

YAV

Ilyichevsk

USSR

Will appear on boat as Cyrillic ЯВ

Post 1991 the port is in Ukraine and has been renamed Chornomorsk

YBA

Bariadi

Tanzania

 

YBE

Bukombe

Tanzania

 

YC

Yamaguchi Prefecture

Japan

 

YD

Ystad

Sweden

 

YE

Yerseke

Netherlands

 

YE

Isle D'Yeu

France

 

YH

Yaremouth

England

 

YKA

Kahama

Tanzania

 

YKB

Kishapu

Tanzania

 

YT

Yist

Netherlands

 

YM

Ymuiden

Netherlands

 

YMA

Meatu sub-district

Tanzania

 

YMS

Maswa

Tanzania

 

YN

Yamanashi Prefecture

Japan

 

YSN

Shinyanga sub-district

Tanzania

 

YSY

Shinyanga

Tanzania

 

YT

Yamagata Prefecture

Japan

 

 

 

 

 

Z

 

Khasanskiy

Russia

Displays on boat as  З

Port letters on Russian fishing boats are in Cyrillic script.  Z is the nearest Latin script equivalent to the Cyrillic  З

Z

Zeebrugge

Belgium

 

ZA

Zaabdam

Netherlands

 

ZAG

Gorki Zachodnie

Poland

 

ZBB

Hanang

Tanzania

 

ZBT

Babati

Tanzania

 

ZD

Zadar

Croatia

 

ZD

Zuidwolde

Netherlands

 

ZE

Zwolle

Netherlands

 

ZEM

Zempin

Germany

 

ZET

Kiteto

Tanzania

 

ZEU

Zercherin

Germany

historic

ZEW

Zecherin Wolgast

Germany

 

ZI

Tallin 

Estonia USSR

Historic port letters for the period of Russian occupation 1945 – 1991.  Lettering on boat is cyrillic ЗИ    ZI is the Latin equivalent

ZID

Zingst A Darss

Germany

 

ZIJ

Zijpe

Netherlands

 

ZID

Zingst

Germany

 

ZIE

Ziemitz

Germany

historic

ZIT

Zitzewitz

Germany

historic

ZIW

Zinnowitz

Germany

 

ZK

Zoutkamp

Netherlands

 

ZL

Zwaluwe

Netherlands

 

ZML

Mbulu

Tanzania

 

ZO

Zoutelande

Netherlands

 

ZR

 

South Africa

Some South African fishing boats have the letters ZR followed by a number painted in large letters on the hull. This is a radio call sign, not Port Registration Letters

ZS

Zwartsluis

Netherlands

 

ZSJ

Simanjiro

Tanzania

 

ZU

Zuid Scharwoude

Netherlands

 

ZUD

Zudar

Germany

 

ZV

Zandvoort

Netherlands

 

ZVC

Zalk en Veecaten

Netherlands

 

ZW

Zwartewaal

Netherlands

 

ZZ

Zierikzee

Netherlands

 

 

 

Arabic alphabet Port Letters

Note – The symbols shown below are the General Unicode for modern standard Arabic. Port letters on boats may show differences as there are considerable variations in Arabic script, particularly when hand painted

 Letters

Port

Country

Notes

ز را

Arzew

Algeria

May appear on boat as Latin script ARZ

ج ب

Bejaia

Algeria

may appear on boat as Latin script BJ

 ص ب

Beni Saf

Algeria

may appear on the boat as Latin script BS

ـج‎  ذ‎  بـ

Bouzedjar

Algeria

may appear on the boat as Latin script BZJ

لش

Cherchell

Algeria

may appear on boat as Latin script CH

لق

Collo

Algeria

may appear on boat as Latin script CL

طا

El Kala

Algeria

may appear on boat as Latin script ET

ذ  غ

Ghazaouet

Algeria

may appear on boat as Latin script GZ

ج ج

 Jijel

 Algeria

may appear on boat as Latin script JJ

‎غ‎ م

Mostaganem

Algeria

may appear on boat as Latin script MG

س ك

Skikda

Algeria

 may appear on boat as Latin script SK

وت

Tigzirt

Algeria

may appear on boat as Latin script TO

 

Cyrillic alphabet Port Letters

 Letters

Port

Country

Notes

AK

Arkangelsk

Russia

“АрхангелЬск” in Cyrillic script  “Arkangelsk” in Latin script

AX

Ahtopol

Bulgaria

AH is the nearest Latin script equivalent to the Cyrillic AX

ҔЧ

Balchick

Bulgaria

BCH is the nearest Latin script equivalent to the Cyrillic script ҔЧ

Бл

БΛ

Byala

Bulgaria

Port letters will appear on the boat as Бл or sometimes as БΛ.   BL is the nearest Latin script equivalent

Бс

Burgas

Bulgaria

BS is the nearest Latin script equivalent  to Бс.

ЯВ

Ilyichevsk

USSR

YAV is the nearest latin script to Cyrillic ЯВ

Post 1991 the port is in Ukraine and has been renamed Chornomorsk

K

KE

Kaliningrad

Russia

KB is the Latin script equivalent to

KE is the Latin script equivalent to

KB

Kb

Kavarna

Bulgaria

Port letters will display on the boat as, KB or Kb. The nearest Latin script equivalent is KV

З

Khasanskiy

Russia

 Z is the nearest Latin script equivalent to the Cyrillic  З

X

Kholmsk

Russia

 

Korsakov

Russia

SB is the nearest Latin script equivalent

M

MK

Murmansk

Russia

M       =  M

MK    =  MK

    =  MB

    =  ME

НД

Nakhodka

Russia

ND is the equivalent Latin script to Cyrillic НД

HC

Nessebar

Bulgaria

HC are the Cyrillic script letters that appear on on the boat..  The nearest latin script equivalent is NS

П

Petropavlovsk

Russia

 P is the nearest Latin script equivalent to the Cyrillic Π

ΠM

Pomorie

Bulgaria

PM is the nearest Latin script equivalent to the Cyrillic Π M

ПР

Primorsko

Bulgaria

PR is the nearest Latin script equivalent to the Cyrillic letters П Р

ШƂ

Shabla

Bulgaria

SHB is the nearest Latin script equivalent to the Cyrillic letters ШƂ

CC

Silistra

Bulgaria

Danube river port.   SS is the nearest Latin script to the Cyrillic CC

C3

Sozopol

Bulgaria

C3 is the Cyrillic script that appears on the boat.  SZ is the nearest Latin script equivalent

ЗИ

ЗБ

Tallin 

Estonia USSR

Historic port letters for the period of Russian occupation 1945 – 1991.   ZE is the Latin equivalent to ЗИ and ZB the equivalent to ЗБ

Цр

Tzarevo

Bulgaria

TSR is the nearest Latin script equivalent to the Cyrillic Ц р

TH

Tutrakan

Bulgaria

Danube river port.   TN is the nearest Latin script to the Cyrillic TH

BH

Varna

Bulgaria

VN is the nearest Latin script equivalent to the Cyrillic BH

 

Greek alphabet Port Letters

 Letters

Port

Country

Notes

ΛK

Corfu

(Kerkyra)

Greece

Port letters appear on boats as ΛK in Greek script.  LK is the Latin alphabet equivalent

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Number Codes

Some countries do not issue Port Registration Letters but simply issue a number to each fishing boat. 

The information in the following list is provisional, and will be updated as further information becomes available

 

Country

Number format

Port

 Notes

America  (U.S.A.)

 

Including American

Dependencies of

 

American Samoa

Guam

Northern Marianas

Puerto Rica

Virgin Islands

None

 

or

 

Numerical

 

or

 

Letters and numbers  for some small boats

 

 

all

 Complicated and confusing

 

Registration is split between the Federal Government and the individual States

 

Federal Government registration

Vessels of five net tons or more used in fishing activities on navigable waters of the US or in the US Exclusive Economic Zone, must be documented by the U.S. Coastguard and are assigned an official number that remains with the vessel for life

 

·     Documented vessels do not display their official number on the outside of the hull, but are identified by their name and home port. (In practice some fishing boats do display the official number on the outside of the hull, but this is not compulsory)

 

State Registration

Fishing vessels of less than five net tons are registered in their own State, and every State has different regulations, although most require some combination of letters and numbers to be displayed on each side of the bow. 

The first two letters are usually the standard letter code used by American States for many identification purposes (eg  Alaska = AK :  Florida = FL : etc). 

 

A typical style appears to be

SC – nnnn – LL  (#)

Where SC is the state code,

nnnn is a number,

LL are two random letters,

(#) is an annual tax or validation sticker.

 

·     most States require all vessels to be registered, so small boats displaying registration letters and numbers will include pleasure craft as well as fishing boats

 

BUT -  Some, but not all, States require Federally documented vessels to also be registered by the State. Federally documented vessels are prohibited from displaying State letters and numbers on the hull, but may have to display the annual tax or validation sticker.

 

Confused ?

Canada

numerical

 all

There are no Port Registration Letters.  Port Codes, are structured on a geographic basis, but are not related to the vessels registered in the ports.

Canadian vessels on the Atlantic coast have a 6 digit Canadian Fishing Vessel (CFV) code beginning with 000018 to a high of at least 176000. (may be higher as this information was obtained some years ago)

Canadian vessels on the Pacific coast have 5 digit numbers in the range 20000 to 99999

The registered number appears to be lettering of any contrasting colour,  applied to either the bow, midships hull, or the cabin

Gaza

numerical

 all

The registered number appears to be black lettering on a yellow plate on each side of the bow

Israel

numerical

 all

The registered number appears to be lettering of any contrasting colour applied on each side of the bow

Morocco

1 - nnn

Nador

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(*)  Ports for fishing boats using this number format are not confirmed,  but appear to be these two ports in the disputed territory of Western Sahara

2 - nnn

Al Hoceima

3 - nnn

Tangier

4 - nnn

Larache

5 - nnn

Rabat

6 - nnn

Casablanca

7 - nnn

Essaouira

8 - nnn

Agadir

10-nnn

Tarfaya

11-nnn

El Aaiun (*)

12-nnn

Dakhla (*)

New Zealand

numerical

 all

NZ fishing boats display an NZ registration number which is the vessels unique identifier.  There are no Port Registration Letters. The identifying number appears to be lettering of any contrasting colour applied on each side of the bow

St. Helena

numerical

 Jamestown

St. Helena is a remote island in the South Atlantic and uses a number applied to each side of the bow for the small number of fishing boats based in the island.

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

Home

 

Contact