The China Sea directory - Sabrizain.org

454 VARELIiAi AND B^UBJAN- STEAITS. [chap. xi.
MorO strait
lies- between Great .Durian, Moro and Bolombo
islamds on tike west, and Eastern bank and Suji island on the east. There
are many islands and rocks in this strait, which has been but imperfec%',
surveyed ; it is however navigable with proper care. The electric
telegjaph cable between Singapore and iBatavia passes thi'ough this strait.
Stlji strait, between Suji and Jambul, is very imperfectly known,
but it is certainly encumbered at both ends with many dangers.
Jamljul strait, between Jambul and Bulang, is also encumbered with
many gangers, although apparently not to so great an extent as Suji; it is
but imperfectly known, and at present, like the rest of the straits, is not
available for general navigation.
Batu Hadji strait, between Bulang and Battam, is very narrow,
in; some places not a quarter of a mile broad. A running survey was made
of' this strait several years ago by Mr. L. C. Bailey, Master E.W.,. and it is
said to be- available for vessels, but we cannot give any .directions for it.
Some years ago it was urged upon the attention,, of nautical nien at
Singapore- as being a route by which vessels could be speedily towed
from Singapore- road to sea in the north-east monsoon ; but it will have
to be properly surveyed before it can be used for such a purpose.
PulO Doncan, lying about 5 miles N.N.W. J W. from the north
extreme of Suji island, is the larger of two low wooded islands, fronting
the north entrance of the strait of Jambul, which is formed by a group of
beautiful islands, some of which are inhabited. Pulo Doncan is surrounded
by reefs; and ought not to be approached nearer than one mile.
TIDSS.—Throughout Varella and Durian straits the tides are very
irregular, rendering it difficult to ascertain either their direction or velocity.
In August and September the rise and fall was found generally to be
between 10 and 11 feet, sometimes running from 3 to 4 miles per hour
during springs ; at other times not more than 2^ knots at the same period.
This irregularity appears to be produced by the prevailing winds in the
north or south entrance of the straits, forcing the tides through in one
direction for 12 or 18 hours at a time, although the rise and fall on the
shore was regular. But sometimes the tides run with regularity.
It is high water at Red island, and Deep water point, in the northern
part of Durian strait, full and change, at lOh., and the tide rises about 10
feet.
RipplingS.—The ripplings met with in the straits might be alarming,
to a stranger ; they appear to be caused by the uneven bottom, and the
resistance the tides meet with from the steep reefs and numerous small
islands.